An Introduction to VoIP
The Technology
VoIP converts your voice into a digital signal, which enables you to make a call from computers or data driven devices. This is done by using packet-switched protocols, which can be thought of as electronic envelopes. As long as there’s a VoIP compatible network, such as an LAN, the packets can be transmitted anywhere. When others receive the digital packet, it reconverts to analog, meaning others can hear the caller’s voice.
During the early years of VoIP, people considered it to be unreliable and less effective than normal phone calls, but changes in technology have boosted people's confidence in digital calling. This is due to introducing standards, improvements in infrastructure and better technology. Although there are still some issues, it’s usually due to bandwidth problems and incorrect settings.
The Advantages of VoIP
There are many advantages of VoIP phone systems for both business and personal use. The IP based technology has a lot to offer and the recent changes mean that more people are noticing the benefits of using VoIP.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is the low costs associated with VoIP. With no phone bills to pay, it’s a much cheaper option as all you pay for is the internet connection. Households that use VoIP can save up to 75% on their phone bill.
There are many extra features of VoIP including voicemail to email, digital transmission and voicemail transcription. These are convenient features and business VoIP has increased in popularity. Further features such as call pickup, forwarding, parking, find me follow me and multi-device ring make VoIP so popular.
The Disadvantages
While VoIP has many advantages, there are also some negative factors to consider. They aren’t always convenient and there are some issues with the technology. If there’s a power cut then you won’t be able to use VoIP. While this might not be a huge issue, storms can cause power outages for days, so it’s not convenient in emergencies.
Some VoIP providers offer digital 911 calls, but it’s not common. The FCC aims to make digital 911 calls available for all users, but it will take some time for this to happen. VoIP requires emergency backup to function. Smartphones can act as a backup but their power drains quickly.
How to Use VoIP
There are different ways you can use VoIP, including IP phones, computers and analog telephone adaptors.
IP Phones are used predominantly for business VoIP as they cost hundreds of dollars. They work similarly to analog phones, but they have the build-in capacity to make digital calls.
Analog phone adaptors act as a bridge between an analog phone and the digital network. The small box has connection ports which include a standard jack and USB or ethernet port.
Computers can make VoIP calls as long as they have the software installed. One of the most popular VoIP software packages is Skype.
People are looking for ways to save money, and the invention of IP phones means we’re closer than ever to achieving free phone calls across the globe. While the technology is still relatively new, it’s clear than in a few years, it will be a household essential.
VoIP Vs Traditional Phone Service
The internet phone service is very reliable, but it does depend on how reliable the internet is overall. Power-outages can be a problem, but a back-up internet source resolves this easily. One of the biggest things to remember is to find a reputable internet provider to ensure your internet phone service runs to its best ability.
Many businesses use VoIP instead of a traditional phone service, which saves money on line rental and calls. There are a few businesses where a traditional phone line is essential due to location issues, but many businesses can benefit from using an internet phone service. Seek advice from internet providers to find the best fit for your company or home.
