Voice over Internet Protocol, or IP telephony, is basically a way to transfer voice calls and multimedia sessions over the Internet, like the Internet. It is one of the fastest-growing communication services today. Voice over Internet Protocol is also referred as IP telephony. It is used worldwide, mostly by businesses, corporate houses, and other organizations.
The term “VoIP” is actually an acronym for Voice over Internet Protocol. It has nothing to do with the transmission of sound through the Internet. Voice over Internet Protocol simply means that the voice signal is converted into an electronic signal and then is transmitted over the Internet as data. There are many advantages in converting voice signals over the Internet. For example, you can use your voice with VoIP services even when you are not in your office and can make VoIP phone calls from anywhere in the world.
There are two methods to make phone calls over the Internet using VoIP.
One is known as Broadband Phone and the other is called VoIP Phone. You need high-speed Internet connection to make phone calls using VoIP. High-speed Internet connection is usually provided by cable or satellite providers. It is also possible to make phone calls using high-speed Internet service from cell phones.
In general, there are three types of VoIP users: home users, small business owners, and large business owners. Home users can make local or long distance calls at an affordable price through free VoIP software like Skype or Google Talk. Most importantly, these free or cheap VoIP softwares are not effective in making international calls.
Small business owners and employees often use their personal computers to make calls and perform other office tasks. If you own a small business, it is best for you to go for an affordable VoIP telephone because it is much cheaper than regular softphones. But before choosing a VoIP provider, consider your needs first. You may want to upgrade to a professional VoIP system if you have huge calls that you need to make frequently. You can choose among three types of VoIP telephony devices such as traditional phones, mobile phones, and computer software.
Mobile or wireless devices are equipped with software that uses VoIP technology to make and receive calls. The latest models of mobile phones already have built-in VoIP functionality but many older mobile phones do not have this feature yet. If you own an older model mobile phone that does not have any VoIP functionality, you can download free VoIP apps from the Android and Apple stores to enjoy VoIP calling features on your mobile device. VoIP apps are basically applications that you can download to your device that will allow you to make calls using your existing Wi-Fi network and cellular airwaves.
Softphones also have VoIP capabilities but they cannot function as well as mobile devices because their hardware is different. Some VoIP softphones also have video conferencing capabilities that work well when used together with mobile devices. VoIP softphones are specifically designed for short messages.
One of the latest features in VoIP telephony is call forwarding.
With this feature, a person can take his or her call to another alternate location. Many businesses especially those which have branches overseas use the service often.
- For international callers, the biggest advantage with this type of VoIP telephone is that they can use their home phones to make calls to any landline or mobile number.
- Aside, from call forwarding, other advanced features such as voicemail, 3-way conference calling, auto attendant, automatic redial, voice mail, call screening, and more are also available.
- VoIP phones have definitely revolutionized communication in the business world.
