Voice over Internet provider is a fast growing technology that is allowing more and more people to make long distance calls for free or ridiculously low prices. With a minimum of equipment, an easy download of software and the desire to make your telecommunication costs the lowest possible, VoIP can make you a very happy customer.

 

Broadband Internet Backbone

 

One of the most important parts of VoIP is of course, the most obvious: the broadband internet connection. Using broadband rather than traditional phone circuitry leads to a far more efficient, cost effective network with the savings passed on to the consumer. Audio signals are turned into digital data and then sent to the correct IP address, just the same as a phone number directs a call in the PSTN.

 

The Hardware Phone Set

 

VoIP requires more than a computer and high-speed connection, of course. You will also need a phone to use during your calls and luckily you can choose between one of three options. The ATA or analog telephone adaptor allows you to keep the old phone that you are already familiar with and still get the low cost long distance calling that you seek from VoIP. Some providers are using the ATA as a lure to get customers to buy bundled services and are provided free of charge. The ATA is fairly simple to install and to use .

 

The second option is the IP phone, which again looks like an ordinary phone, the only difference here is the type of connection that the phone has. Instead of the traditional phone hook up, the IP phone has an Ethernet connection which connects directly to the router. The IP phone comes with the needed software in most cases, allowing users to make calls from any hotspot.

 

The Softphone Option

 

The third option is computer to computer calling, which is by far the easiest way to use VoIP. With the right type of software and some additional equipment, you could be making calls for nothing more than the cost of your monthly ISP fee. For this option you need a sound card, a microphone and speakers- the latter two sometimes come preinstalled in many newer computers.

 

VoIP services offer many of the same features that your old fashioned phone company does, and like them, will often charge additional fees for using them. And while VoIP sounds like a dream come true, there are a few drawbacks to consider before making the leap. For one thing, there is no form of backup power. If you are without electricity, you are without VoIP as well. Some systems are not connected to the 9-1-1 system, although that is a bug that is being worked on diligently. Consider the tradeoffs and then make your decision carefully. We all communicate daily; shouldn’t we be paying less to do it?