What You Should Know About Voice over IP

Voice over Internet Protocol has transformed the way many people make phone calls and pushed down the cost of telephoning. From saving money to extra features, there are various reasons to consider getting an IP phone. While they are not for everyone, knowing how they work, the different types and their relative merits and disadvantages can help many people make the right choice.

Basically, VoIP is a way of breaking down calls into packets so that they can be sent over IP networks and then reassembled into regular voice at the other end. By doing so, the calls can travel as regular internet traffic and the marginal cost of sending them is almost zero. This is a far cry from the old days of telephoning when a conversation between two people required a single, interrupted wire between them that could not be used by anyone else.

Types of IP phones to consider
ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) provides IP phone service through existing telephone jacks via a connection between them and an IP network. It is often offered by telephone and cable companies as a cheaper alternative to regular phone service and works almost the same.

Dedicated VOIP phones connect directly to an IP network through a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. Since they work wherever internet is available, they are very portable.

A softphone is software that can be downloaded that will turn any computer into a phone. All that is required is a headset. With virtually no equipment to buy, portability, a phone that can be updated with a quick download and usually the cheapest rates, this type of phone offers many cost advantages. However, it requires that the computer to be on for one to make or answer calls.

Smart phones offering Wi-Fi connections and ways to make VoIP calls are becoming increasingly popular. These enable users to take advantage of cheap IP calls when in Wi-Fi range and to use their regular cell service at other times.

Reasons to consider an IP phone
The most attractive feature of IP phones is their pricing. With their efficiency advantages, IP phone providers can offer pricing traditional phone companies cannot. From the low cost-per-minute fees to the calling extras that are usually included for free, they are cheaper in virtually every way.

Most IP phones are not tied to any physical location either. With the ability to use them wherever there is an internet connection, they offer great convenience and savings from the need to make expensive calls when on the road. Other features such as the ability to check messages online or as email attachments also makes them great for those who travel.

Landline lubbers take heart
There are still reasons why it may not be possible or practical for many to cut their land lines. Unlike IP phones that require a constant power source and internet connection, landlines will work as long as they are connected. Also, certain subscription services and home security systems require land lines. With the price of most calls so low now, cutting the landline may not offer significant money savings.

In summery
VoIP offers great convenience and savings to many even if it does not make sense for everyone. Anyone interested needs to check online reviews for the best plans, pricing, features and service. Do not make any decisions until estimating the costs of different plans and remember that unlimited plans are not always the best buy. With its efficiency and pricing advantages, people will be putting their voices over IP phones for the foreseeable future.