VOIP refers to Voice over Internet Protocol. It is an economical way of making voice calls by making use of a broadband Internet connection, rather than the traditional phone lines or analog signals. Sometimes a VOIP service may permit an individual to call anyone who is using the similar service. While others, may permit the user to call only those people whose telephone numbers they have.
International numbers, long distance, local calls and mobile numbers are all included in this. Some of its services are only beneficial over a particular VOIP phone or a computer. Other services permit an individual to make use of the traditional phone and link it to a VOIP adapter.
VOIP services transform the voice to a digital signal, which is transferred via Internet. If the call is made to a regular phone number, the signal will also be transformed into a regular telephone signal prior to its reach to the final destination. With VOIP, an individual can make a call from his computer, special VIOP phones or the usual phone linked to a VOIP adapter. Furthermore, parks, airports and cafes are the wireless spots where a user can establish a connection with the Internet and wirelessly use the VOIP service. Caller ID, Call forwarding, value added like incorporation with software, voice mail, bypass taxes and call conferencing facilities are all features of VOIP services.
There are various advantages of VOIP:
- It saves money and energy by blending all data, video and audio applications into one larger application. From caller ID to voice mail all features are provided.
- It enables the user to select their regional codes. This way, the calls that have to be made at a specific location, no matter the distance, will be charged similar to a local call only. Some of the VOIP service providers widen their range of regional codes to a few other nations as well.
- Whether used for local calls or International calls, for business or residential purposes, VOIP is any day cheaper than the traditional calls that are made.
- It is flexible as its adapter can be carried anywhere and helps an individual to stay connected no matter where he is.
- Call waiting, call block, call forwarding, voice mail and caller ID, all functions are included without any extra charge.
Considering its various advantages, some people might consider replacing their traditional with VOIP service. The cost saving in this method varies between 30 and 90 percent. However, it may not turn out to be such a good replacement as expected. This is because, it has some disadvantages. Foremost, is that during power cuts and the lack of power backup by the service provider, an individual may not be able to make any calls. Secondly, for calls to emergency numbers or services, some VOIP services do not directly connect to them. Last but not the least, white page listings or any kind of directory assistance is not provided by them.