Take to the Internet with a new VoIP telephone
What is VoIP and how does it work?
VoIP (short for Voice over Internet Protocol) is an Internet technology that allows users to make telephone calls and carry out related communications (such as multimedia presentations) directly over the Internet. VoIP phones are the special devices that allow you to do this. These telephones let you bypass traditional telephone service by converting audio signals into digital data that is carried via the Internet to whoever you’re talking to on the other end of the line and then converting it back into audible sound—all in an instant. In other words, VoIP allows you to communicate with family, friends, and business colleagues around the world clearly and effectively, and at a fraction of the cost of a traditional long distance telephone call.
VoIP Internet phones - features and benefits
VoIP phones come in a multitude of designs and styles and with various features and benefits. For instance, many VoIP phones offer 5, 10, or even more lines for making multiple concurrent phone calls. Voice conferencing is also common, as is speakerphone and the option to choose from a variety of different online protocols (i.e., SIP, TCP, UDP, ICMP, DHCP, and many more). They also typically include voicemail service. In other words, VoIP Internet phones look and work just like traditional telephones, right down to their number pads, handsets, and digital display screens. The main difference is that your calls are placed over the Internet, which allows for secure encryption.
VoIP routers - making a connection
Routers are the devices that allow VoIP phones to connect to the Internet and carry calls back and forth between users. While not quite the same as modems (modems allow you to connect your computer directly to the Internet), they do allow for multiple computers and devices (including VoIP phones) to connect to your home network all at once. VoIP routers also impact the connectivity (i.e., call quality) of your Internet phone, and they play a key role in your privacy and security. This makes choosing the right router extremely important. Always choose a model that includes a built-in firewall, and then choose a VoIP service provider with secure data encryption.
Where can you use your VoIP phone?
VoIP phones may be used virtually anywhere that has an Internet connection and the hardware to connect them to it (i.e., a router). In other words, you can use a VoIP Internet phone whether in your workplace or at home. And moving your service around is also easy. If you relocate your home or office, there’s no need to call the phone company to come in and set up your telephone service. VoIP phones are convenient, easy to use, versatile, secure, and inexpensive. If voice based communication is important to you or your business, there’s really no better way to keep in touch.