VoIP also called as Voice over Internet Protocol, Voice over Broadband, Internet Telephony, IP Telephony, Broadband Phone, and Broadband Telephony refers to the voice routing conversations via Internet or any other network that are IP-based. VoIP Protocols or Voice over IP Protocols is used for carrying voice signals over IP networks.

It is the result of the Network Voice Protocol experiments invented on 1973 for ARPANET providers. One network is used for carrying data and voice especially for users with underutilized network. This allows saving significant amount of money because phone calls using VoIP on different providers are usually free. However, calling from VoIP to PSTN will charge the person using the VoIP.

The PSTN to VoIP services are Direct Inward Dialing (DID) and access numbers. In DID, the callers is directly connected to the user of VoIP but in access numbers, the callers is required to enter the VoIP user’s extension number. A monthly fee is charged on DID while access numbers is free of charge for VoIP users and local calls for callers.

VoIP changes the entire viewpoint of people regarding long distance calls. In this method, the audio analog signals are being transformed to digital data that are transmitted via the Internet. The standard connection of the internet becomes a way in placing phone calls for free. Utilizing VoIP software for free is the practical way of saving money and bypassing phone companies and its entire charges.

VoIP is an innovative technology with an ability to rework the phone systems completely all over the world. VoIP is a one way phone call but offers different VoIP services commonly used today.

1. ATA is the most common and simplest way of service using the Analog Telephone Adaptor device which converts analog signals to digital signals. It allows standard phone connection to your computer or internet connection for VoIP use. The converted analog signals are transmitted on the internet.

2. IP phones are specialized phones resembling normal phones with cradle, buttons, and handset. The only difference is that a phone connector (RJ-11) is used by standard phones while an Ethernet connector (RJ-45) is used by IP phones. IP phones are directly connected to the router with all the necessary software and hardware in handling IP calls. IP phones that are Wi-Fi will also soon be available. VoIp calls can be done at all Wi-Fi hotspot.

3. Computer-to-computer is the easiest method of using VoIP. Calling long distance is free. There are a few companies which offer free or very cheap software to make use of this method. The user only needs a microphone, sound card, speakers, Internet connection (via DSL modem or cable) and the software. However, the users need to pay the ISP monthly fee.

Trying VoIP is not a problem since there are plenty of VoIP softwares in the Internet for free. All you need to do is to download and setup it at about 3 to 5 minutes. To test it, you could invite a friend to do the same and check it if it’s really working. This is a good opportunity.

VoIP are used by most phone companies in streamlining their networks. They are routing phone calls via IP getaway and circuit switch reducing the bandwidth they are using for long hauls. Once the getaway received the calls, the other side will route, reassemble, and decompress it locally in a circuit switch.

This will take time but the current networks of circuit-switched are replaced by a technology called packet-switching. The data networks just retrieve and send data whenever the user needs it. It does not allow routing of data via dedicated line instead it allows flowing of data packets through chaotic networks provided with numerous possible paths. It simply opens brief connections to send the packets (small piece of data) from systems to systems. This method is very efficient because packets flow through the cheapest and least congested lines while still allowing both communicating computers to accept information.

IP technology really makes sense both in infrastructure and economics requirements. More businesses are installing the VoIP systems and this technology will grow more in popularity making its way for home use. VoIP is a breakthrough in improving traditional phone systems to become very efficient and a reliable way of communication.

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