VOIP - Voice Over Internet Protocol

VOIP is acronym for Voice Over Internet Protocol which allows you to make telephone calls using an internet connection instead of regular telephone line. In simpler words VOIP is phone services over internet. Voice data are sent in packets through high-speed Internet connection rather that by tradition POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) lines. Some VoIP services may restrict a call to the service type that means you can call only those people who are using the same services, but others may allow you to call any telephone number i.e. local, long-distance, mobile, and international numbers.

Equipments needed for VoIPs:

VOIPS cannot be practiced without internet connections; most of VOIP services, rather, require high speed broadband internet connection. For information on broadband Internet connections, visit www.fcc.gov/cgb/broadband.html. Depending on the type of VoIP service, a computer, a special VoIP telephone or a regular telephone with an adapter are the things needed to install VoIP. However, if a regular telephone number is called then the receiver does not need any special equipment other than a telephone.

How it works:
VOIPS works just like a regular phone with a single difference i.e. the way a phone call actually gets to the telephone. It converts the analog audio signals into digital data so that the message can be transmitted through internet at lower cost than regular telephone cost. VOIPS routes a phone call directly to telephone using the high speed internet connection. The dial tone at the time of making a call and ringing of phone at the time of arrival of a call are as usual. If the destination is regular phone then these digital signals are converted back.

Types of VoIP services:
VoIP facilitates connection between different modes of communications. There are three different ways of communication through VoIP:
(1) ATA: An ATA allows a normal telephone to be connected to a computer or internet connection to use VoIP services. It takes the analog signals from your telephone and converts them into digital data which can be transmitted through internet. Providers like Vonage and AT&T Call Vantage are offering ATAs free with their services.
(2) Computer to Computer: This is the easiest way to take advantage of the VoIP services. Skype and Stanaphone are some of those companies offering free or very low cost software that can be used for this type of VoIPs. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and an internet connection, preferably a fast one. There is usually no charge for computer-to-computer calls, no matter how long is the distance between two call-centers.
(3) IP Phones: Although look wise same but, the IP phones have RJ-45 Ethernet Connector unlike standard RJ-11 phone connectors. They are able to connect direct to a router and they have all hardware and software necessary to handle the IP calls.

Limitations of VoIP facility:
Before replacing the traditional phone line by VoIP these factors should be considered carefully:
- Some VoIP service providers may have limitations to their 911 service;
- Some VoIP services don?t work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power;
- VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings.
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