Is VoIP Vital?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the technology that allows you to make phone calls with the use of your home or office computer network. VoIP runs over a linked data network just as the Internet does. The voice signal from your phone is converted by this VoIP technology into a signal that is digitized to travel by Internet. It then is converted back to telephone technology so that a regular phone conversation is possible with any standard telephone number. When you place a phone call by VoIP using your standard phone with a VoIP adapter you hear a regular dial tone and you dial just as if it were a regular call over your telephone line. With VoIP you are sometimes able to call right from your computer using a conventional microphone or telephone.

You can call two different ways with VoIP. The first way is by installation of an adaptor directly to your Web connection. When using this method your telephone call actually is delivered via your landline carrier to a VoIP provider. The call is routed out over the Web to the recipient's phone carrier to complete the telephone call.

The other method for using VoIP is by plugging a headset and microphone directly into your computer. You then use your keyboard to dial the number and it routes right out by way of your cable modem. Setting up your VoIP phone connection requires a cable modem or something almost as fast such as your phone carrier's DSL equipment or LAN setup. Your phone can also directly connect to the adaptor. Your other option is to purchase a microphone that isn't very costly and hook it into your computer directly.

There is no standard VoIP service price. Each provider has its own charge. Some may even let you call other of its providers for free. Your VoIP provider may also offer you an area code of your own at no long distance charge. If you choose an area code elsewhere than your local one those calls, just as your home area calls, will be free of charges for long distance. The only problem, of course, would be if most of your callers are local. This could leave them with long distance charges to call you. Just be careful which area code you choose, with consideration for your consistent callers.

Who you can call with VoIP depends on which provider you use. You might be only able to call those who have the same provider or you might be able to make a call to anyone you choose anywhere in any country. You can make a VoIP call to a local landline, a cell phone, or a long distance domestic or international call. VoIP even allows conference calls. Whoever you are calling does not need VoIP, an adapter or even a computer. They just need a phone like any other call.

VoIP is digital, unlike the standard landline, and so there are services and features that you can't get with a conventional telephone. If your Internet connection is broadband then you can save yourself the expense of an additional phone line for calls. VoIP is advantageous because it can save you the cost of a landline and with the right provider can save you long distance charges. Some disadvantages of VoIP are that you may not be able to call out during a power or cable outage, and you may not have a direct 911 connection. You also may not have any directory assistance or white page listing.

Newton Meckley is the owner and operator of Mico Voip Ltd which is an excellent place to find voip links, resources and articles.