SolveYourProblem
eLearning Series
VoIP (Voice
over Internet Protocol)
VOIP
(Voice over Internet Protocol) Basics
by Jeff Cohen
VoIP
stands for Voice over Internet Protocol.
It is the ability to transmit voice over the Internet and
to either a receiving computer or telephone. VoIP works by
what is referred to as the Packet Switching Network. Standard
landline telephones use the Circuit Switching Network. The
entire landline telephone system is known as the Public Switched
Telephone Network.
The
main difference between Packet Switching and Circuit Switching,
is that Packet Switching uses (data) or
Packets and sends them over the Internet while Circuit
Switching is accomplished by using electrical circuits
to make a telephone connection. Circuit Switching is like
the old switchboard operators, wearing headsets frantically
trying to connect the right caller with the receiver. Packet
Switching is used to transfer data all across the Internet-
it is used for E-mail.
Packet
Switching converts audio formats into data packets and transmits
them over the Internet, then reassembles them on the other
person’s phone or computer in real time.
By
using a High Speed Internet Connection, a microphone, and
speakers a conversation can take place that is comparable
to any landline telephone conversation.
VoIP
technology is not relatively new; it is just becoming increasingly
popular. During the latter part of the 1990’s,
programs were springing up across the Internet offering
some form of free VoIP technology. Most of those are either
no longer existent or now charge a standard monthly service
fee for the use of their product. But one thing remains
certain, VoIP is developing higher standards of quality
every day, and it has proved that it is a viable force
for telecommunication needs for the future.
Many
telephone companies are expanding to allow for monthly VoIP
services. Companies such as Sprint, Verizon, and AOL are
offering VoIP plans.
Instant
Messaging programs have been utilizing the science of VoIP
technology for years. Now, most Instant Messaging
programs come with “voice” enabled features. These features
allow you to call a member of your buddy list. By using
a microphone and speakers, you will be able to converse
anywhere in the world, by VoIP and your Instant Messaging
program.
VoIP
is prized for its ability to integrate many forms of telecommunication
applications into one package. VoIP can handle data, audio,
video, E-Mail, and web based applications simultaneously.
This makes VoIP an incredible boost to businesses. It also
is s a cost effective choice of telephone service.
Instant
Messaging is a perfect example of how VoIP incorporates different
areas into one program. With your voice enabled Instant Messaging
program, you can hook up a digital camera or a web cam and
use video, while you are speaking with your buddy on your
microphone and listening to them with your speakers, and
you can type back and forth with your chat program. You could
also write an email while you are doing all of these other
tasks at the same time. The potential for VoIP’S use is nearly
limitless.
VoIP
telephone service providers are increasing in popularity
as well. Many people are discovering all of the
benefits available to them by switching to VoIP. First,
VoIP costs significantly less than standard telephone service,
and this is a great attraction for bringing in new customers.
Many VoIP service plans will let you make unlimited long
distance calls or provide you with a plan for very inexpensive
rates.
Many
of the features that are often included for a fee with
traditional phone service are often included for free with
VoIP services. These include features such as
Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Call Block, Three-Way- Calling,
Voice Mail, and more. Another benefit to VoIP services
include the fact that many providers will let you keep
your existing phone number, or allow you to select a new
area code. Selecting a new area code has great appeal to
many people. For instance, a customer can select an area
code for the same town where most of his friends or family
live. By choosing this area code, not only is he still
getting a great deal with his VoIP services, but also now
his family and friends will save money whenever they call.
For them, it will be a local and not a long distance call.
VoIP
has proved that it is a viable force in the field of telecommunications,
we can be sure that VoIP is here to stay.
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