How Does it Work?
The most common way VoIP works is that the end user establishes a hi speed broadband connection, a router and a VoIP gateway. Instead of a standard telephone line, the router sends the telephone calls over an Internet connection. The VoIP gateway, placed somewhere in direct proximity of the connected Internet converts the analog signals into digital format, which are further broken down into smaller chunks called 'packets', before sending it over the Internet, much like the way data is transmitted to and from the computer. These packets are sent to their final destination and instructions for bringing back into an understandable form are embedded in them. It then goes through a VoIP gateway where the packets are reconverted into the original analog format utilizing a PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), thereby routing the call to the number the caller has dialed blending old school technology and hi tech delivery in a seamless and instantaneous way.More Than One Way to Make a Call
Using VoIP technology, phone calls can also be made using IP phones between two computers. IP phones looks like normal standard handsets, but equipped with an RJ-45 Ethernet connector in place of the common RJ-11 connectors. These phones come with all the necessary hardware and software pre-loaded, allowing the user to directly connect to the router bringing the new user into the cost effective world of VoIP.PC to PC calls are the easiest and most inexpensive way to make use of VoIP technology. There are many companies providing software for free or at reduced cost to encourage consumer experimentation with VoIP. When calling from a PC, all the user may need is a microphone, a suitable sound card and a reliable Internet connection. The service itself may be free of cost in many cases. The only fee the end user may have is the monthly fee for the Internet service provider and nothing additional for the actual calls made.
VoIP Features
The biggest advantage of VoIP is that the customers can make calls from anywhere in the world where a broadband Internet connection is available. The customers can take their IP phones or ATA's with them on national and international trips and still can manage to access what is essentially an individual's domestic phone line.Then there are the softphones, which a software application that loads the VoIP services onto the desktop or laptop. Some even simulate an interface that looks like a telephone, with which you can place VoIP calls to anybody around the world, through a standard broadband connection.
Most VoIP services come with the caller id, call waiting, call transfer, repeat dialing and three-way dialing features. For additional features such as call filtering, forwarding a call, or sending calls directly to the voice mail, the service provider may assess an additional fee. Most VoIP services also allowthe user to check his/her voicemail over the web or attach messages to an e-mail that is sent to his/her PDA or PC.
Generally, the facilities and components provided by VOIP phone system suppliers and service operators may vary in significant ways. It is advisable to check the pros and cons before subscribing. Make sure that you have available technical support for the possible compatibility issues that could arise between the existing and new hardware components.
