Overview on Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP)

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, simply stated, converts your voice into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. As we all know, when calling a regular phone number the signal is converted to a regular telephone signal before reaching the destination. But VoIP allows making a call - directly from a computer or using a special VoIP phone or through a traditional phone that is connected to a special adapter. Moreover in locations such as airports, parks, and cafes VoIP enables you to connect to the Internet and may allow you to use VoIP service wirelessly.

As long as one has Internet access, it is possible to make and/or receive calls at any place and at any time. To appreciate this feature, one must know that even cell phones do not so extensively cover every remote and rural area as the Internet. Needless to state, all the standard features are present and available free - be it three-way conferencing, call forwarding, auto redial and caller identification.

To avail VoIP facility, one needs broadband (high speed Internet) connection regardless whether it is through a cable modem, or high speed services such as DSL or a local area network. Some VoIP services only work with a special VoIP phone, while other services allow you to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP adapter.

Special VoIP phones will enable you to plug directly into your broadband connection - but if you use a telephone with a VoIP adapter, you can dial just as usual and the service provider may provide the dial tone. VOIP is capable of being integrated with all Internet based applications and services - such as file sharing, video/audio conferencing, and other similar services and applications.

Some VoIP providers charge for a long distance call to a number outside your calling area while other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes. It is good to know that if you are calling someone who has a regular analog phone, that person does not need any special equipment to talk to you. Some VoIP services offer features such as three-way conferencing, call forwarding, auto redial and caller identification that are not available with a traditional phone, or are available but only for an additional fee. Another distinct advantage is you will avoid paying for both a broadband connection and a traditional telephone line.

A basic disadvantage with VoIP is the absolute necessity for Internet connection. Further, as all communications take place over the Internet, they will be unsecured and privacy will be not there. Quite a few VoIP services do not work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power. Sending Fax messages through VOIP connection is ruled out but the consolation is services such as e-Fax or Callwave may be possible. Another serious drawback is the lack of emergency calling facility. Most VOIP companies have perforce created own emergency call centers to route emergency calls. At least as of now, VoIP providers do not offer directory assistance and/or white page listings.

Cyril Bird is a SEO copywriter for VOIP Service Providers, Virtual PBX and Toll Free Numbers. He has written many articles in various topics like Fax Software, Voicemail and Answering Service. For more information visit: http://www.ringcentral.com/