What is VoIP, shortly?
VoIP or broadband phone is a possibility to make calls all over the world through the Internet, not using the usual phone lines. The connection may be phone based (meaning that you just use your home phone to make or receive calls) or computer based (in this case you’ll need a headset with microphone).
VoIP means Voice over Internet Protocol.
How will I send or receive a VoIP call?
In case of using a phone based service you just use your home phone to make or receive calls as you do it usually.
With a computer based service you’ll need a headset with a microphone connected to your computer. (Using your home phone is possible if buying the additional instrument).
Will I be able to call only VoIP phones?
No, sure! You’ll be able to call any phone number all over the world. Doesn’t matter if it’s a local number, a cellular phone or an international number. Just ask the provider to find out they do not have any restrictions of the service.
The best thing is that a person receiving your VoIP call on the local phone does not need any special equipment.
What about the quality?
The technology of VoIP calls has developed so far that in some cases the quality of the calls sent through VoIP is much better then of those sent through the wires. But you should keep in mind that the concrete service very much depends on your provider, as well as on the speed of the broadband connection you are using.
Do I need a computer to make or receive calls?
No, if you are planning to use a phone based VoIP service. You will just need an adapter, connecting your phone to the Internet (usually for free from the provider).
Making a local call or a long-distance call – how does it differ?
Whether it is a local or a long-distance, or even an international call – you just dial the number and wait for connection. The ways of charging may differ from provider to provider or from plan to plan. But anyway, the costs of VoIP calls are extremely low compared to the costs or wired calls.
What are the benefits of a VoIP phone?
There are many, let us mention just a couple of them:
it can save you up to 90% or your phone bill
you may take your number with you all over the world
additional features, such as: voice mail, caller ID, call waiting, conference call and others.
Can I call 911?
Most of the providers offer the possibility to call emergency numbers, but we should admit that there may occur problems with identification of the caller location or delays. If the possibility to make instant 911 cal is important for you we would suggest using VoIP as an additional service instead of replacing the phone line by it.
I want to keep my number – is it possible?
Yes, most providers will offer you such possibility.
I want to get a number of an area code of different location.
Most of the providers offer this service. For example, you can get New York number while living in Denver. You will be charged for New York calls as for local ones, BUT remember – calling to Denver numbers you will be charged long-distance rates, as well as your friends calling you from Denver will pay for the calls to New York number.
I want to keep my number while traveling.
It is possible while you have an access to a high-speed Internet connection or have your phone adapter with you. You will be charged the same rates as calling from your usual location.
I want to try the service before making the decision.
Many providers do offer such a trial period with money back guarantee so you could really try the service and only after it decide if you are satisfied with the proposition.
Are VoIP calls secure?
The encryption of the data passed through VoIP has been proved to be very stable and secure, thus there is no need to be worried on this issue.
How to start using VoIP?
The providers offer two types of services: phone based (such as Vonage, Sun Rocke) and computer based (Skype, SIP). Each provider has different plans suitable for different requirements and tastes. In order to choose the right one you can compare the offers and make your choice.
I’m not a computer profi.
That’s not a problem at all – even a computer based services are very easy to use, not speaking of phone based services.
Any special equipment necessary?
You need a high-speed Internet connection (doesn’t matter if it’s a DSL, a cable modem or a LAN).
Using a phone based VoIP service you will need an adapter connecting your regular phone to the Internet which you’ll receive from your provider.
Using a computer based service you will need a headset with a microphone.
It’s easy.
How does the equipment cost?
The phone adapter is usually provided to you by your service provider free of charge. But you will have to send it back in case of canceling the service.
The headset with he microphone costs several dollars.
Is my Internet connection good enough?
Your usual DSL or cable connection (VoIP does not work with dial-up connection) should be absolutely enough.
Will I be able to use my computer while making or receiving the call? Should it stay turned all day?
Yes, you will be able to use the computer and surf the Internet during the call.
If you are using a phone service, it may even be turned off, but make sure that the Internet connection is available and active.