VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. Essentially, it is the transmitting of voice or a conversation over an IP-based network, such as the internet. Originally, VoIP was designed for data networking, but in light of new and advanced technology, it is taking over the traditional telephone operating system that has been in use for many years. The success of the internet in becoming a world standard for communication has led to the development of VoIP and a number of advantages in voice communication. Not only is Voice over IP becoming popular in the business world, it also provides a number of benefits for private use in the home.
VoIP has experienced rapid growth in popularity largely because of the cost factor. Unlike traditional phone service, it does not charge a per minute fee for long distance. Instead, individuals are able to communicate with one another via their computers or a device that connects their phones to their computers. Where international calls are prevalent, this can result in an especially huge savings. Overall, it provides users with an alternative route to communicate by voice, while avoiding expensive service charges. Families who live far apart are able to talk for longer and stay closely connected. Many VoIP services even allow conference communication, permitting the entire family to share in the same conversation from various location.
In addition to being cost efficient, using VoIP for your home phone service is convenient. It provides the flexibility of being able to talk on the phone while surfing the internet, or accessing other programs on your computer. Some VoIP connections are made possible through a adapter which can work on any phone from any location. Users can travel with their VoIP connection and take their phone number with them. Plus, applications like email and fax can be performed over a home VoIP line for added convenience.
Communication can be improved by VoIP, as current technology is able to provide clarity in voice and sound, with fewer interruptions or dropped calls. Plus, many VoIP services enable users to attach documents and photos to voice messages, or even participate in video chat with someone on the other side of the world.
The infrastructure for VoIP service is simple and cost efficient. Voice signals can be converted to data signals using a software. Some web based programs such as Skype and Google Voice feature many voice over services for free, across a user friendly interface. In addition, VoIP services can be purchased for home use with low monthly fees, or in conjunction with your internet connection to reduce your number of monthly bills.
Some programs operate via the speakers and microphone on your computer and do not require additional devices, while others enable you to use your regular telephone headset to communicate through the internet. New technology also includes specialized VoIP phones, and even VoIP cell phones or smart phones that can convert to voice over protocol with the right applications.
Overall, VoIP provides a more manageable, cost efficient way of communicating, by enabling users to make low cost long distance calls and use the phone anywhere an internet connection exists. It is revolutionizing phone communication and becoming popular in a large number of homes, due to the unique advantages it provides.