What is VoIP?

What is VoIP?
VoIP is an acronym for voice over internet protocol. A VoIP, in essence, is a computer softphone that allows you to make phone calls from your computer to anyone in the world, e.g., PC to PC, PC to landlines, or PC to cell phones. The voice signal converts to data packets and travels across the internet through a VoIP platform, and then converts back to voice at the receiving end of the communication exchange. Leading telecom experts are projecting that 75% of the world’s communications will be done on VoIP within the next several years.What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?You will need a computer with internet access and an inexpensive microphone if your computer does not have one built in. Although most VoIP providers require high speed internet connections, there are a few that can be used on dial-up connections.How Can I Place a Call or Receive a Call?Basically, the same way you would a regular phone, except on your PC. When you download a VoIP line on your computer, a phone usually appears on your screen. The computer phone acts like any other phone in that you can dial numbers on it from a pad, or click on a contact’s pre-programmed name, and press the call button. You will then hear the phone ringing to the party you have called and can talk to them when they accept the call, or leave a voicemail if they are not available.When receiving a call, the phone will ring on your computer and you can click to accept the call and talk, or let it ring (based on the number of rings you have set up) and forward the caller to your voicemail.What Kind of Features Does a VoIP Have?Typically a VoIP has voicemail with audio capabilities, three-way calling, text messaging, and contacts list. Some VoIPs even have webcam capabilities. In addition, there is usually a button to click that can indicate to others when you are available, unavailable, away, or off line. Who Can I Call?Most reputable VoIP solutions providers limit PC to PC calls among their own subscribers for privacy purposes and so that the quality of sound is not compromised. Most reputable VoIP solutions providers have secure lines that include their own patented technology.Some VoIP solutions providers require limiting PC to landlines or cell phones to their own subscribers. Advantages of VoIP·With VoIP, you have unlimited talk time to anyone in the world from PC to PC for a flat monthly rate ·Most VoIP’s offer drastically reduced costs for calling PC to landlines ·Most VoIP’s offer reduced costs for calling PC to cell phones, however, prices vary depending on the cell phone carrier. ·Savings of up to 80% off current phone bills. What are the Costs for VoIPs?Typically there is an enrollment fee which varies between $20.00 to hundreds of dollars Monthly fees, after enrollment, varies between $5.00 per month to $75.00 per month If you do not have a microphone on your computer, you would have to purchase one. Cost is between $5.00 to $40.00.Things to Watch Out For with VoIP Solution Providers·Hidden costs ·Unsecure lines - meaning anyone can listen to your conversation because of shared servers or open platforms ·Inability to be used with dial-up connections ·Public listing of your name and/or phone number ·Unsecure lines or Free services may have spyware, no protection against viruses, worms, Trojan horses, etc., which can corrupt your computer and ultimately causes it to crash