VoIP FAQ - VoIP Frequently Asked Questions
What Is VoIP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology and a set of applications which allows you to make phone calls over a Broadband Internet connection. VoIP is also referred to as IP Telephony, Internet Telephony, or Broadband Phone.
How Does VoIP Work?
In its simplest terms, VoIP is the process of breaking up voice/audio into small chunks (or packets) of data, compressing the chunks, transmitting those chunks over an IP network (e.g. the internet), and reassembling those chunks at the receiving end, so that two people can communicate using voice/audio.
Does VoIP Save Me Money?
A VoIP service can save you between 30-90% off your regular monthly phone bill. It's best to use VoIP if you can relate to one or more of the following: you already have an Internet connection; you regularly make long distance or international phone calls; you run a small business and want to reduce your phone costs; There are many other reasons to switch to VoIP also.
How Good Is VoIP Call Quality?
VoIP call quality has been increasing over the last few years, and is now at the stage of being as good as, if not better than regular landline voice quality. Also, VoIP call quality primarily depends on the speed of your Internet connection. A Broadband connection is ideal for VoIP, and most Internet users have or will shortly be upgrading to this type of connection.
What Do I Need To Make VoIP Work?
If you want to use a computer to make VoIP work, all that is required is a PC connected to a broadband internet connection, and a headset consisting of earphones and microphone connected to the soundcard of your computer. You will also need to download and install VoIP software. With the software installed, invite all your friends to download the same software and when someone is up and running, give them a call! If you want to use your existing analogue telephone to make VoIP work, you will need to plug your phone into an Analogue Telephone Adapter (ATA). The ATA is then plugged into your Broadband router or modem. Another requirement for setting up VoIP in this way is that you will need to set up an account with a VoIP Service Provider, such as Vonage, or Packet8. VoIP Service Providers offer a variety of low cost services, and once you register with a provider, you will be able to make VoIP calls. |
The final way to make VoIP work is to use an IP Phone. IP Phones plug directly into your Internet connection. Again, you will need to sign up with a VoIP Service provider to make VoIP calls. Some Service providers give you free IP phones when you sign up with them, otherwise you may have to purchase these seperately.
How do I make or Receive a VoIP Call?
If you are using an IP Phone or your regular phone connected to an ATA, then placing a call is no different than how you usually do it. Simply pick up the receiver and dial a number to make a call, and pick up the phone to answer an incoming call. If you are using VoIP over a computer, you place a call by using the software installed on your computer and speak via a headset.
What Are Some Advantages of VoIP?
Some of the many benefits of using VoIP are:
- VoIP offers cheaper call rates
- VoIP gives you significant cost savings
- VoIP gives you more Portability
- VoIP offers you Virtual Phone Numbers
- VoIP offers you more Enhanced Features
What Are Some Disadvantages Of VoIP?
Your VoIP service is only as reliable as your broadband internet connection. Nowadays, most Internet Service providers (ISPs) are fairly reliable, but will occasionally experience downtime. Another thing that affects the reliability of your VoIP service is power outages. If you experience a power cut, then your VoIP phone will not be able to be turned on and your internet access may also be unavailable until the power returns. A good solution to this could be to set up an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), in case of power cuts occurring. Another major concern with VoIP involves emergency 911 calls. Traditional phone equipment can trace your location when a 911 call is placed. Emergency calls are diverted to the nearest call center where the operator can see your location in case you can't talk. However, with VoIP, 911 calls cannot be traced to a specific geographic location; therefore, it is much more of a challenge to pinpoint the origin of the call. To solve this problem, VoIP providers are working with 911 dispatchers and the local phone companies to solve this problem. |
These disadvantages of VoIP will be overcome in time. There is a tremendous amount of work being done to increase the reliability and usefulness of VoIP. It is estimated that by 2007 most of the kinks in the system will be worked out.
How Do I Know If I have a VoIP Phone Call?
Your phone will ring the same as your regular telephone.
Can I Use My Computer While Making/Receiving Calls?
Yes, you can use your computer as normal while making or receiving VoIP calls.
Does My Computer Need To Be Powered On?
If you are using and ATA or an IP Phone your computer does not need to be switched on. All you need is a working internet connection to make and receive VoIP calls.
Can I Transfer My Existing Telephone Number?
Yes, it is possible to port over your existing number onto your VoIP Service. However, you will need to contact both your regular phone company and VoIP Service Provider to make this happen.
Can I Fax With VoIP?
It is possible to send and receive a Fax over VoIP (also known as FoIP); however it needs to be set up correctly. Check with the VoIP Service provider about their fax services.
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