A Closer Look at VoIP
VoIP stands for “voice over IP”, where IP is “Internet protocol.” In other words, it is telephony based on another kind of rules – those making up the protocols that enable two computers to communicate with each other. The main difference between VoIP and standard telephony is that IP is based on the exchange of data packets between two computers, while a traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) relies on electrical circuits.
There are several different ways in which you can use VoIP. One of the most widespread instances of VoIP communication is instant messaging with voice. Instant messaging started when ICQ was launched in November 1996. Back in those days, it was only text-based, but it soon became immensely popular. Others soon followed suit and now there are many programs for instant messaging available on the Internet. Today, most instant messaging providers are also offering voice chat solutions. ICQ By downloading a free program from the Internet, two PC users in geographically remote locations can talk to each other free of charge – it has to be the same program, however.
But VoIP can also be used with a regular telephone. You can subscribe to a VoIP service provider and gain access to VoIP in exchange for a monthly fee. If you like using headphones and a microphone, you can talk using your computer. If you feel more comfortable using a regular telephone, all you need is a VoIP adapter that you can connect to your modem and to your phone. There won’t be any perceivable difference in the way you use your telephone.
Why would you get a subscription to a VoIP service provider? The most well-known among the reasons are the significantly reduced telephony costs. Because the same network is used to carry voice and data, providers can afford to come with extremely attractive offers, some even featuring unlimited calling plans. In addition to calling, there will often be additional services included, such as voicemail, displaying the source of an incoming call, transferring your calls to a phone, or creating a phone conference between three people (three-way calling). These services often come free, thus making VoIP even more attractive.
There are also specialized VoIP phones available. They look exactly like the traditional ones, except that the connector they use is similar to the one on a computer network adapter. In the case of VoIP phones, there is just one unit that incorporates all the hardware and software needed for packet switching – including the capability to handle telephone conferencing. Both corded and cordless versions are available.
VoWiFi phones are the hottest thing around – VoIP phones with wireless technology. Don’t rush to compare them with cordless telephones. They are more like mobile phones, allowing you to use them wherever there is a so-called WiFi hotspot –a wireless Internet connection – available. Though there are still some technical issues to be solved, VoWiFi phones do work and they are more cost-effective than mobiles.
A third category would be the phones that combine cellular and WiFi technology. They can operate as cell phones and, when a wireless Internet connection is available, you can switch to VoIP, thus reducing costs by eliminating roaming charges, for instance.
One issue concerning VoIP is the difficulty of tracing the call. This can be quite a problem if you’re calling 911 and are unable to offer information concerning your location. The operator will not be able to locate you. In response to this issue, some FCC regulations have been issued, requiring VoIP providers to solve the problem. One solution is the so-called Enhanced 911 service, which can be available to you once you have activated it and you have registered your phone with 911. Still, the solution is not perfect, and VoIP providers will make sure you are aware of this when you apply for Internet telephony services.
VoIP has been around for quite some time now, but the recent years have seen a rapid surge in its implementation. Major carriers are either already offering, or planning to offer VoIP services in addition to conventional telephony. With the world of technology concentrating on this field, we can be confident that the imperfections will soon be worked out and VoIP will come to equal traditional telephony in terms of popularity.
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