Introduction
The way we make phone calls is changing. In fact, in many circumstances things have already changed. Take long distance calls for example, many service providers are already using a technology called Voice over IP or VOIP for short. If you have never heard of VOIP before, then the following article will change the way you think about how long distance phone calls are made now and how all phone calls will be made in the future. Voice Over IP (VOIP) is a method of converting analog audio signals into digital data that can be transferred over the Internet.
You may be wondering how this is useful. Well, think about it for a few seconds. If analog signals can be converted to digital data, then VOIP can turn a standard Internet connection into a method of making phone calls anywhere in the world for virtually free, except for your Internet service fee, allowing you to avoid the phone companies entirely.
Voice Over IP (VOIP) has the potential to completely revolutionize the way the world’s telephone systems work. There are many VOIP service providers that have been around for a while and are constantly growing. Now, the world’s leading telecom operators are realizing the endless possibilities of this new technology, establishing VOIP call centers all over the world and promoting sales of Voice over IP phone systems.
making a call
With VOIP phone systems it is possible to make a call in one of three ways:
ATA (gateway) – The easiest way to make a VOIP phone call is by using ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter), sometimes called gateways. These allow you to make use of your existing standard analog phones. Simply connect your standard phone to the ATA (Gateway) and then connect the ATA to your computer or Internet connection, allowing you to make VOIP calls. An ATA takes the analog signal from your standard phone and converts it into a digital signal that is ready for transmission over the Internet. Some ATAs (Gateways) come with additional software that is loaded on a host computer, allowing you to configure it for VOIP with precision.
IP phones – These phones look just like normal standard phones. They have an RJ 45 Ethernet connector instead of the standard RJ 11 connectors. These phones have all the necessary software and hardware to handle VOIP calls already built-in. They connect directly to your router, providing a very fast and cost-effective entry into the world of Voice over IP.
computer to computer – This is the easiest way to make use of VOIP technology. There are many companies that offer cost-effective software that you can use for this type of VOIP. Typically, the only charge you pay is the monthly charge from your Internet service provider, even for long distance calls. All you need is a microphone, speakers, a suitable sound card, and a fast Internet connection.
Most likely, you have already made a VOIP call without even realizing it. Major phone companies already use VOIP to route thousands of long distance calls through a circuit switch and out to an IP gateway. This is then received by a gateway at the other end and then routed to another local circuit switch. More and more businesses are installing VOIP phone systems, and the technology will grow and grow to reach every business and home around the world.
VoIP Features
Because with VOIP you can make calls from anywhere you have access to a broadband connection, users can take their IP or ATA phones with them on their travels and still have access to what is essentially their home phone.
Some people use a softphone to access their VOIP service. A softphone is a specially developed software application that loads the VOIP service on your desktop or laptop computer. Some even have an on-screen interface that looks like a traditional phone. These softphone apps allow you to make VOIP calls from your laptop; anywhere in the world you have access to a broadband connection.
Most traditional phone companies charge you for extra features added to your account. With VOIP service providers these usually come as standard. Features such as:
1. Caller ID
2. Call waiting
3. Call transfer
4.Repeat dial
5. Callback
6. Three way dialing
Some VOIP service providers also offer advanced call filtering features. These additional features allow you to decide how calls to a specific number are handled by using caller ID information. You are allowed:
1. Forward the call to a particular number
2. Send the call directly to voicemail
3. Give the caller a busy signal
4. Play an “out of service” message
Many VOIP services also allow you to check your voice mail over the Internet or attach messages to an email sent to your computer or PDA. It’s best to check with VOIP phone system providers and service operators exactly what features they offer, as prices for packages and services vary widely.
There are many other cost saving benefits that arise from an optimized VOIP phone system network. For network administrators, a VOIP phone system means they only have to maintain one network instead of two. Phone system portability is also greatly simplified. This is because most VOIP phone systems can be configured using a web interface, which can be managed by the network administrator. The MAC (move, add, change) process is made much easier and you won’t have to call your system/service provider for every MAC you perform. All of this means lower ongoing costs for your business.
Another cost savings for businesses implementing a VOIP system is that because multiple offices, no matter where in the world, are seamlessly connected, they can share many of the features that VOIP can offer, such as:
1. Only one receptionist
2. Auto attendant facilities
3. Voice mail system
Choosing a VOIP phone system
If you’ve decided that a VOIP phone system is the right move for your business, next you need to determine which of your existing phone equipment you can keep. The potential cost savings that can be achieved by using any existing digital equipment are enormous. Many digital phone systems can be made IP-enabled using minor hardware additions and software upgrades.
When looking at potential systems, you need to be sure which features they provide as standard and which are optional add-on costs. You also need to be sure of exactly what is included with the system. Many vendors claim to include everything you need, but standard components can vary from company to company. Therefore, you should be sure to compare equivalent systems when approaching potential vendors.
You will also need to inquire about the compatibility of existing equipment. The technology used in many VOIP systems can affect the implementation of any existing telephone hardware.
You will also need to make sure that all devices such as fax machines, credit card processors, security systems, etc. can be integrated into your new VOIP phone system. You should inform any potential supplier of such devices so that they can provide you with a telephone system suitable for your requirements.
Finally, don’t try to save money by buying used VOIP phone systems. Remember that VOIP is a new technology, so even equipment from the last few years is out of date. Also, the cost of installation will still apply whether the system is new or used, and service costs may be even higher due to reliability issues. Simply put, it’s not worth the hassle, the higher secondary costs will wipe out any potential savings.
Thank you for reading,
jason