VoIp (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the transmission of voice traffic over IP-based networks. The Internet Protocol (IP) was designed for data networking. Because of its success in becoming the world standard for data networking, IP has been adapted for voice networking.
What are the advantages of VoIP?
VoIP has become popular because of the cost advantages over the traditional telephone networks. Most consumers
in America pay a fixed monthly fee for local telephone calls and a per-minute charge for long-distance calls.
VoIP calls can be placed across the Internet in most cases alleviating costly national long distance charges. Also, most VoIP plans normally include Free local and a block of long distance minutes. For international calling, the savings to the customer from switching to VoIP can be utilized as well.
VoIP Hardware
VoIP hardware consists of VoIP compatible handsets, routers, switches and accessories. Purchasing hardware for
an internal VoIP phone system solution allows for your company's internal phone system to utilize VoIP
technology internally. It is possible to use VoIP handsets connected to a VoIP phone system and still maintain
your copper lines and service. Using your VoIP phone system allows to better control how your business is run
through unified communications. Accessing email and voice mail securely and efficiently.
VoIP Phone Service
VOIP phone service replaces traditional carrier services to your facility by allowing calls to be carried over
the internet or dedicated data lines. There are many different types of services including hosted VoIP services.
This type of service allows you to pay a flat fee per phone which includes the necessary phones and number of
lines at very less than traditional phone lines costs. There are many factors to consider when choosing the
right VoIP solution for your business needs.
If you are looking for VoIP service, call us at 508-324-9475 so we can analyze your needs and formulate a solution that best fits you or your business.
Q: Is VoIP for me?
- A VoIP or broadband phone service can help you save up to 90% of your monthly phone bill. It's best suited
for you if you can relate with any of the following needs:
- I have a high speed internet connection would like to lower my phone bills.
- I make expensive long distance phone or international calls and want to minimize costs.
- I run a small business and phone bill services make up a significant part of my overhead.
- I like the convenience of taking my number with me as I travel anywhere in the world.
Q: How does one place or receive a VoIP phone call?
- With a phone-based service you would use VoIP the same way you use a regular landline, by picking up the phone to answer it or dialing a number to place a call.
Q: Can I call any phone or just VoIP phones?
- Most providers allow you to call any phone number in the world, whether that number be a local, long-distance, mobile phone, or international number. However, some computer-based providers may limit you to other subscribers to that service (Commonly known as "User to User").
Q: Do I need a computer to call?
- No, you do not need a computer for phone-based VoIP services. An adapter (often provided free of charge by the VoIP provider) connects the phone to a high-speed internet connection.
Q: What can a VoIP phone do that a landline phone cannot?
- A VoIP or broadband phone service can help you save up to 90% of your monthly phone bill. VoIP providers offer many features which are covered in the monthly fee, such as voicemail, caller ID, three-way calling, and call waiting. Many providers offer unlimited long-distance with their plans, which saves customers the trouble of having to purchase long-distance phone cards.
Q: What are the disadvantages of VoIP phone service?
- Some VoIP services do not work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power. Also, some providers do not give you the option to list your number amongst the white pages of your phonebook.
Q: Does it come with 911?
- Although most providers offer "Enhanced 911" (E911), it may be difficult for some VoIP services to seamlessly connect with the 911 dispatch center or identify the location of callers using VoIP. If you are troubled by this, you may wish to consider VoIP as an additional phone service instead of an alternative to a traditional phone line.
Q: Can I keep my number?
- Most providers allow number portability so you can use the same number which is given by your traditional phone provider.
Q: Can I take my number with me when I travel?
- Yes, most providers allow you to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high-speed Internet connection available and your phone adapter is with you. In this case, calling would work the same as if you were dialing from your home or business and you would not incur additional charges.
Q: How secure are VoIP calls?
- Although the media likes to play up future security threats in VoIP, so far, documented instances of VoIP security breaches have been few and far between. Also, the recently introduced encryption for VoIP subscriber units laid to rest many VoIP security questions.
Q: Will I have to buy the equipment myself?
- The equipment is often provided free of charge by the VoIP service provider. Such equipment is usually to be returned in the event you cancel the plan. Some providers also give you the option of keeping the equipment by letting you purchase it during sign-up.
Q: How fast does my internet connection need to be?
- The average DSL or cable connection is usually sufficient. A few providers offer service to dial-up internet customers. VoIP service with dial-up is not advised due to common complaints of poor voice quality and reliability.
Q: What differences are there between making a local call and a long-distance call?
- In terms of technology or how you dial the number, there are no differences. Call charges, however, vary from plan to plan. Rates for long-distance calls are usually quite low. Furthermore, many VoIP providers offer unlimited long-distance in which case the calls are free.
