What is VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol and is a way for people to converse by voice using an Internet connection. Basically, you are using the Internet like you would a long distance telephone provider. Your voice is actually converted to a signal by your provider before it reaches its destination via the World Wide Web. There are a variety of benefits, as well as a few drawbacks, to this form of communication. First, let's take a look at some of the advantages you'll get when you use Voice Over Internet Protocol.

Flexibility is a major benefit of communicating with Voice Over Internet Protocol. You can make your calls right from your computer, special phone, or regular phone that is hooked up to an adapter. In certain places with wireless Internet like cafes, airports and libraries, you may be able to connect wirelessly and make your Voice Over Internet Protocol calls there as well without the need for an adapter. The required equipment for this type of service is easy for most anyone to acquire. All you need is a computer with broadband Internet service. For those not in the know, broadband refers to Internet service like DSL and cable. These days, most people already have this type of service, although a few are still on dial-up.

One of the best things about Voice Over Internet Protocol is that many providers offer it for free. This means no more outrageous long distance telephone bills! Of course, not every provider offers this service for free. For example, some allow free local calls but charge a small fee for calls outside the local area. Others may charge a flat rate per month for the unlimited use of the service. You can even hold conference calls with multiple users with this technology. In theory, if you have a broadband Internet connection, sound card and a way to speak and listen such as a microphone, speakers or headphones, you may not even need a long distance phone line.

Of course, there are a few disadvantages to VoIP. For example, you can only use it if your computer is on and connected to the Internet or if you are in the vicinity of wireless Internet with your computer turned on. You must have the correct software loaded and running, as must the person you are communicating with. Because Voice Over Internet Protocol does use your computer, you would not be able to communicate this way during a power outage. For most, the advantages of communicating through Voice Over Internet Protocol far outweigh the disadvantages.

Copyright 2007 James D. Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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