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Christian InTech Articles - VOIP
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5 Benefits to Adding VoIP
There are many benefits and advantages to switching from PSTN-
Public Switched Telephone Network. VoIP technology is growing
and changing every day. Major corporations are transferring
their business needs over to VoIP and households worldwide...
Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) – All The Information You Need
VoIP technology is revolutionary in that it combines internet access with telephone service therefore utilizing the same technology for two very different things. Now, instead of having a traditional phone connection, VoIP technology enables you to...
VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol
Voice over internet protocol or VoIP is beginning to come into
it's own. The promise of cost savings over traditional phone
lines is driving this technology into the mainstream. Leveraging
your existing broadband connection to save on your...
What Is VoIP Security?
Security is an obvious concern when it comes to any sort of
technology, but even more so with any technology that is run
through the Internet. Because VoIP runs through
the Internet any information can be intercepted by anyone at any
time....
What’s Your IQ on Basic PC Phone (VoIP) Knowledge
Short T/F quiz 1.T / F You can save a significant amount of money using VoIP rather than traditional telephone/cell phone calling methods. 2.T / F The minimum requirement for VoIP is a broadband (high speed) connection. 3.T / F VoIP security is not...
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VOIP-Voice Over IP at Home: Is it Right for You?
VOIP AT HOME
What is VoIP?
Chances are you've heard of VoIP, or "voice over Internet." If
not, you will soon, as major phone companies are now trying to
get in on the action. Why? VoIP allows users to make phone calls
using their high-speed Internet connection. This essentially
translates into "free" long distance, or, depending on set-up,
unlimited long distance for a low set price for the service.
When using VoIP, the traditional phone company is left
completely out of the loop--literally. The concept is much the
same as email; for the price of an Internet connection and
provider, you can send unlimited email messages.
VoIP Pros
VoIP is an affordable method for long distance calling, and
depending on where you live, you may be able to transfer you
current phone number to a VoIP system. VoIP is easy to use, and
depending on the service and method you choose, installation can
be as easy as downloading software or attaching an adaptor to
your computer. For the most part, sounds exactly the same as
with a traditional telephone line. If you are using VoIP and the
other person is not, they will not know the difference.
VoIP Cons
Some areas do not yet have this availability, but it is still
possible to transfer long distance only to VoIP--it just means
that you'll have a separate number for long distance calling.
This may be a slight inconvenience, but the savings may offset
the cost--it all depends on your needs. Also, some users report
hearing an echo when using VoIP. There can also be a slight
delay at the beginning of the call.
One primary issue regarding VoIP is the ability to dial out for
emergencies. Some providers work to place 911 calls (by
configuring your service), and some do not. If you will be
replacing your landline or mobile completely with VoIP, this is
something you will want to research before choosing a provider
and service.
Is VoIP Right for Me?
Deciding to choose VoIP depends on your needs. If you make a
large number of long distance calls, it may be well worth
looking into. VoIP services are often much less expensive than
traditional providers. When comparing VoIP to cell phone
programs, it again depends on needs. Most VoIP packages
are
considerably less than cell phone unlimited calling plans, but
of course, VoIP is not as flexible (yet) as far as portability
and other features you may not want to give up on your cell plan.
How Do I Get Set-up for VoIP?
Technical requirements for VoIP depend on the service and method
you choose to use. There are three types of VoIP options.
* ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor, and it's very simple
to use. You connect it to your computer or Internet connection,
plug in a regular phone, and you're ready to go! Providers such
as Vonage and AT&T CallAdvantage use this option.
* IP phones are special phones that look like traditional
phones, but they connect with an Ethernet connector. A similar
phone in the works is one that operates with Wi-Fi, which means
that when you take your laptop to the local coffee bar to access
wireless Internet, you could also make a long distance call.
* Computer-to-computer is an easy way to use VoIP and long
distance calls are free; you only pay for the software. To use
this method, you will need to download and install the software
and be equipped with a microphone, speakers, a sound card and a
high-speed Internet connection such as DSL or cable. Aside from
the software, the only fees are those for your monthly ISP.
You'll need a high-speed Internet connection to use VoIP, such
as DSL or Cable.
Most VoIP options are easy to install. Providers of ATA, for
example, will usually send you the adaptor you need when you
sign up for the service. If you have a standard Internet set-up,
you should be able to easily install the adaptor and software
yourself, and be on your way. The process is very simple and
straightforward, and once installed, the service is immediate
(no waiting 3-5 business days for your phone service!).
Connecting an IP phone is equally easy, and computer-to-computer
simply requires the downloading and installing of software.
About the author:
Andrew Kelly is a Technology Consultant who helps keep
businesses at the leading edge of technology. For more great
tips and resources on everything voIP visit: VoIP
Solutions for Your Home & Business
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