VoIP
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is a method of transmitting voice communication through Internet Protocol networks. Internet Protocol (IP) was initially developed for data transmission but has evolved to also allow voice transmission. VoIP is used on a broadband network that can transmit both data and voice simultaneously without having to use only one or the other at any one time.
VoIP has many advantages over traditional telephone service. Because it can be routed throughout the internet, there are no extra charges to the customer for long distance. A traditional phone service generally charges a per-minute rate for long distance usage on top of the monthly package fee, depending on the distance from the caller.
Another benefit of VoIP is that voice mail can be digitized and stored as emails, providing for an easy integration of communications. Businesses can track and archive their voice mails from clients, suppliers or employees.
Because VoIP does not recognize "long distance", the area code does not have to be tied to the user’s physical location. Users can have several phone numbers with different area codes reflecting where the user receives the most callers from. Most VoIP services also allow users to set up an inexpensive toll-free number so that callers from other parts of the country can call without incurring a long distance charge. A VoIP telephone number can also be taken with customers when they move, providing for a seamless transfer of services.
VoIP does not require that the other party also have VoIP. You can use your service to call anyone with a traditional telephone service. You can also receive calls on your VoIP device from any type of phone service, from both landlines and cellular telephones.
In the UK, VoIP is available through most broadband providers. It is usually purchased along with broadband internet service but some UK providers sell only VoIP. Packaging the two services together frequently saves the customer money and definitely saves them another monthly bill to process and pay. Some plans include free international calling and some have restrictions on calling areas without further charge.
There are three main ways to communicate using broadband VoIP: using a specially-designed VoIP telephone, using a standard telephone with a VoIP adaptor and using a computer with a microphone and speakers. All three methods will provide the same high-quality voice transmission. Using either a VoIP telephone or a laptop is useful when the user requires portability as they can be used anywhere there is a wireless broadband connection, such as a coffee shop or library.
VoIP is becoming more popular as people switch over from dial-up internet service to broadband. Its flexibility and cost-savings make it an attractive option for those who frequently call long distance and for those who appreciate the portability of the service. Increasing competition amongst VoIP service providers in the UK keeps the costs to the consumers down and the included services high.
