Outstanding Voip Voicemail Features Makes Getting Voip Voicemail Extremely Convenient

Writen by Chris Landry

There are many types of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) protocols that are employed by the VoIP providers currently providing VoIP calling plans. Luckily for the consumers, the VoIP providers have listened to what functions the consumers want in their Voicemails. Almost all of the VoIP providers provide Voicemail with the standard VoIP calling plan. The special feature of the VoIP voicemail plan is in how the consumer can access his/her VoIP voicemail message.

In general, there are 4 ways in which a VoIP consumer can access their voicemail. When you add the four ways up, you will be able to access your voicemail from virtually anywhere.

First, you can access your voicemail through your primary VoIP telephone by dialing *123 or some other combination of numbers (VoIP voicemail access code varies by provider). The automatic attendant will let you know how many voicemails you have and walk you through retrieving all of your new voicemails and saving/deleting your old emails. It is quite a slick system.

The second method is via a local voicemail access number, where you can call a local telephone number from any telephone (Cell phone/Land line/ VoIP phone). When you dial into your local voicemail access number, the auto attendant will ask for you to punch in your VoIP phone number and password to be able to access your VoIP voicemail system.

The third method is through your VoIP provider online account management portal. You can go to your Provider's VoIP homepage and access the "Customer Login" portal by typing in your username and password. Once into the portal, click on the Voicemail tab and you can listen to your new voicemails over Internet connection.

The fourth method, and possibly the most useful, is every time you get a new VoIP voicemail, you are sent an email. That email will state that you have a new voicemail from your VoIP account, the date the voicemail was received, and an attachment of the voicemail as a .wav file. One outstanding feature is that you can save the .wav file on your computer's hard drive and email the voicemail to friends, family, or coworkers.

The above are generally how most VoIP providers give consumers access to their voicemail (but not all). Be sure to check each VoIP provider for how they provide their consumers access to their voicemail.

VoIP voicemail service is only one of the things to consider before choosing a VoIP solution. In fact, there are many things to consider when choosing a VoIP provider. An educated consumer generally results in a satisfied consumer. Please see our VoIP: Things to consider article to find a list of more things to consider when choosing a VoIP provider. You can Compare VoIP providers side-by-side at www.VoIPChoices.com.

Chris Landry is the foremost authority on residential and small business VoIP providers. Chris is the founder of http://www.VoIPChoices.com. Chris has prequalified several high-quality VoIP providers and compares them by price and features at http://www.VoIPChoices.com. Chris can be reach via email at Chris@VoIPChoices.com.

Net Telephone Services In Trouble 911 Fcc Rules Upheld

Writen by Richard Chapo

Net telephone service providers are facing a huge problem. A court has upheld FCC regulations requiring the voice over internet protocol providers to provide 911 services.

911 Rules

As you know, traditional telephone companies provide 911 call services to customers. Under long established laws, the traditional telephone companies are required to automatically route such calls to a geographically appropriate area and deliver the originating phone number and address of the call. Net telephone services haven't done this in the past as the technical reading of the regulations didn't require them to. Now the regulations do and it is causing problems.

VOIP net telephone services are having severe difficulty complying with the FCC regulations. The calls are not routed through a traditional telephone line structure, which makes it very hard to determine the original calling number and address. On top of this, it is extraordinarily difficult to route the calls to the appropriate geographic emergency phone call center. Throw in politics and you have a boondoggle in the making.

911 In A Digital Age

In many cases, government agencies fail to appreciate the complexities of the Internet and digital technology. They have a habit of issuing rules and regulations that are either antiquated or impossible to implement. The FCC and FTC are famous for doing so, particularly since the agencies seem to have the technical sophistication of dinosaur. On the issue of 911 rules for net telephone services, however, the FCC has acted appropriately.

911 is a critical service that must be made available to the public. It performs a service that is both needed and necessary. As the net telephone services seek bigger shares of the commercial market, they must also assume larger responsibility for the services they provide. This is particularly true for 911 services.

911 emergency call centers help save lives. In health risk situations, time is almost always a critical component in the outcome. Given as much, the FCC has acted appropriately in requiring net telephone services to provide 911 services to customers.

Richard A. Chapo is a San Diego business lawyer with http://www.sandiegobusinesslawfirm.com - a San Diego business law firm in San Diego, California.

Hotels Using Voip

Writen by Robyn Abrames

The days of expensive hotel phone bills are over, with the rise of more and more hotels offering broadband Internet services. With the broadband connection, users can use Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP to stay connected with their family. This is especially good news to oversea travelers. Some hotels do have a charge to access the Internet.

The Residence Inn in New Haven Conneticutt has become one of the first hotels to offer free VoIP service to their customers. Adam Dubroff of TravelGlue, the company that wired the Residence Inn for VoIP, told CNN. "Until now, hotel guests have paid a premium for the convenience of the long distance service, which was appropriate when there were no cell phones and it really was a convenience."

Dubroff continued, "But as technology has developed, it has become an old business model and the prices charged have been rendered exorbitant. Now, because of VoIP, there is an opportunity to provide guests with a phone service for free and I think this will be the norm in the future."

The Wynn in Las Vegas has taken the VoIP technology to the fullest extreme offering reservations, hotel information and more right from a touch screen VoIP phone. Plus when a user accesses the broadband Internet the Wynn offers, they can use their personal VoIP service for only the cost of the Internet access.

Many VoIP providers allow users to take their service with them, wherever they travel. Skype offers a free VoIP that can be used directly with a users computer and broadband Internet connection, therefore allowing it to be accessed virtually anywhere and anytime. No additional equipment is needed, however Skype users can only call Skype customers for free. Calling regular phone numbers result in a charge.

Vonage allows customers to travel with their phone adapter that plugs into their computer and broadband Internet, giving them the same Internet phone service that they receive at home. Additional charges may incur from Vonage based on the monthly plan the user currently is enrolled in.

"Communication was always an issue with expats working overseas. Satellite telephones have helped me to keep in touch with my family but the per minute cost prohibited long or chatty calls," says Thomas Drown, a geologist working in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. "Now, I can talk to anyone in the world who has either a phone or an Internet connection. Now I can call my mom in Canada from my western Mongolia ger field office any time of the day or night for just eight cents a minute."

For more information regaurding VOIP services check out http://www.calling-plans.com/broadband-phone.html or http://www.page-fx.com/internet-phone/.

What You Must Know About Voip

Writen by Lucas Velloso

VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) represents the next generation of Phone services. The VoIP technology uses a high speed internet connection (such as DSL or cable) rather than a traditional phone line, for the transmission of voice signals. The use of this technology costs significantly less than the use of traditional phone lines. Think of it as having to send a document to someone by fax versus sending the same document by e-mail. Which option is cheaper? The cost of faxing a document depends on where you're faxing it to and how many pages you're faxing (and therefore how long you'll use the phone line). E-mailing the document costs the same thing regardless of where you're e-mailing it to and how many pages you're e-mailing. The same applies to VOIP.

There are several providers currently offering VOIP phone services such as Vonage, lingo and packet8 among others. The calling plans range in price from $10 to $30 a month. Most have unlimited long distance calling and free features such as call waiting, caller ID, voicemail, etc without additional costs. The cost advantage of VOIP is such that traditional phone providers such as Verizon and AT&T have already begun to offer VOIP phone services which also cost significant less than their regular plans. Therefore, the VolP technology is set to bring lower prices and improved services to the consumer as a result of more competition.

There are generally three kinds of VOIP calling:

1)_ATA (Analog telephone adaptors): your phone is plugged into special router which is in turn connected to the internet. This router converts analog signals from your phone into digital packets of data which can then be sent through a high speed internet connection. If the person you're calling also has VOIP, these packets of data travel exclusively through the internet all the way to the other side of the line. If you're calling a regular phone, then a part of the journey must be made through regular phone lines. That's why there is a cost involved. It is this kind of VOIP that providers such as Vonage, lingo, packet8 and others rely in order to provide their services. Because your "voice" travels mostly through the internet the cost of the calls is much lower, and therefore the calling plans are much cheaper.

2)_IP(internet protocol) phones: these phones look exactly like standard phones, but instead of connecting to a normal phone cable, they connect to an Ethernet cable which in turn plugs directly into your router or broadband modem. This way the conversion of your voice into digital packets of data happens inside the phone, rather than in a VOIP router.

3)_ Computer to computer: this is currently the most popular kind of VOIP calling. Computer programs such as Skype, allow you to talk to anyone anywhere in the world for free! All that is needed is a microphone and a speaker on each of the computers. Since this technology uses exclusively the internet connection to get from one end of the line to the other, there is no cost for the user. It's like exchanging e-mails messages, except that packets of data containing voice rather than words are traveling through the internet. For a small fee, these programs also allow you to make calls to regular phones

One good feature of VOIP is that you're not tied to a particular area code. Suppose you live in New York but most of your friends and family live in Los Angeles. You could choose to have an area code from Los Angeles added to your phone, so that all the calls that originate in LA count as local calls rather than long distance calls. That way, your friends and family pay only for a local call even though they're calling you from across the country.

For more information about VOIP and tips on choosing a VOIP provider visit http://www.voip-basics.info

About the author:

Lucas Velloso enjoys writing about VOIP. Visit http://www.voip-basics.info where you'll find everything you need to know about VOIP.

Supercharge Employees With Voip Hosted Pbx Advanced Features

Writen by Bill Casey

It's no secret that Hosted PBX technology has a robust set of advanced features that literally makes a tradional PBX as obsolete as a rotary dial telephone. Putting these advanced features to work will streamline your business processes, increase customer satisfaction and increase your revenues. Just as importantly, these features can provide you with a major strategic advantage over your competition.

As an added bonus, activation and changes to these features can easily be administed by your employees by using an easy-to-use, intuitive web browser. With a traditional PBX, you would have to pay the provider or your own technician to perform these changes for you and probably have to wait several days for the changes to be completed.

Here are just a few of the features available, how you can use them, and why they are important to your business:

Simultaneous Ringing - Simultaneous Ringing acts like a personal locator and makes it easy for people to find you. You can set up to 10 phone numbers to all ring at the same time when someone calls your main phone number. You can answer the call on any of the ringing phones. This makes contacting you easier than ever since callers only have to dial one number to reach you. Bottom line, there is less chance of missing important calls, and allows your inside and outside sales force to generate more revenue and more profit!

Remote Office - Through an easy-to-use Web-based portal, you can assign your office phone number to any phone in the world. So if you're traveling in London, you can set you hotel phone to ring when someone calls your office phone number. And making calls from your hotel phone will look to your callers like you're calling from your office. This feature can put your sales force, virtual office workers, and traveling executives within easy reach when a special call must be completed.

Auto Attendant - Present a more professional image to callers and reduce the need for a full-time receptionist with our Auto Attendant. Incoming calls to your main number are answered by our Auto Attendant, which is fully customizable according to your specifications. Dial by name directories and "0?-out to Operator options are standard. The Auto Attendant gives your company a professional, Big Business image.

Online Call Manager - Using a web-based portal allows you to dial, manipulate, and transfer calls on your computer, as well as configure and change your personal call handling settings. This feature allows you to adjust to changing business needs on the fly without having to send in a service request and then wait days before the change is made. In today's business environment, worker and process flexibility enhances your compeitive edge.

Visual Voicemail - Listen, forward and archive your voicemails just like you handle email. In addition to receiving voicemails on your telephone, a copy of each voicemail message is forwarded to your Email inbox as an audio file. This feature allows you to visually scan your voicemail box for the most important message. With a traditional PBX you would have to call your voice mail and sequentially listen to the header of each and every message, a time-consuming process. With Hosted PBX voicemail, you can also forward messages people outside of your Hosted PBX system using email so that you can share valuable first hand information with your suppliers, affiliates, and other important business partners.

Other Basic Features- Each user also has a set of basic features that need no explanation. These are: unlimited local calling, unique phone number (DID), Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Do Not Disturb, Last Number Redial, and Caller ID.

Depending on your business, here are a few optional features you might want to also consider.

Soft Attendant Console - This optional computer application replaces the need for a bulky receptionist module. This optional feature provides the receptionist with a visual representation of every employee so they can see instantly who's on the phone and who's not. Transferring calls is easy - just click and drag.

Plus, since the application is accessed over the Internet, your receptionist can handle calls from any location . This not only gives you hiring flexibility, it also is a major advantage in the event a natural or man-made disaster occurs at your main business location and preserves the continuity of revenue-producing communications to and from your business.

Call Center - The optional Call Center application is a powerful, but inexpensive tool that allows businesses to tie together employees across multiple locations under one unified call center. Incoming calls are held in queue and routed to the next available agent - no matter where they are! Nightly reporting is available on both the agent and overall group level showing average hold time, average time spent per call, number of minutes an agent was check-in/ check-out, plus other critical management features.

Call center is a money-saving option that provides you with the flexibility to easily assemble a full-featured call center utilizing remotely deployed workers or office based workers, or a combination of the two. How would you like to have the option of using a virtual staff for all your call center needs or what about the need to bring in part-timers on the spur of the moment to handle promotional call volume spikes or for business continuity in the event of a disaster. A Hosted PBX can give you that flexibility.

If you are serious about taking employee productivity to the next level, then you should definitely consider the advanced feature sets offered in a VOIP Hosted PBX environment.

Voip Overview

Writen by Meryl K. Evans

Since we're using computers all the time to do our work, let's make it easy and add the phone to the pile. VoIP also known as (voice over Internet protocol), Internet telephony, IP telephony, and Internet voice is catching on and is expected to grow in the next few years. The technology has been around for about a decade, but it isn't till now that we have the supporting technology to handle it and an market reaching critical mass (hate using jargon, but there isn't a better way to say it).

VoIP requires users to have broadband connections. With 22 percent of Americans connected to the Internet by broadband, the numbers are large enough for making money with Internet voice and big telecoms are already in the game.

How VoIP works

VoIP works like email. TCP/IP networks consist of IP packets with a header for controlling communication and information for transportating data. VoIP uses the IP packets to send the human voice across the Internet using IP packets to its destination.

It digitizes a voice into data packets, sends them through the network and converts them back to voice when arriving at the destination. Digital format can be compressed, routed, and converted to other and better formats.

When calling someone using VoIP, you use a phone with an adapter. Just like we use a telephone to make phone calls on POTS (plain old telephone service), the adapter is a device to connect the phone to the network. The VoIP phone has its own phone number for callers to dial.

The good and bad things

An advantage of VoIP is it can avoid charges typically found on PSTNs (public switched telephone network). For customers, there is less worry about how long or how often they make phone calls. Calling another state costs the same as calling another country even on the other side of the world. IP-based boxes are cheaper than analog PBXes.

However, service reliability is an issue. How many times has a download or connecting to a Web site faltered? That may not be such a big deal, but it is more disruptive to phone calls. Network issues are complicated by customers getting broadband from one company and VoIP from another. When a call gets switched from network to network, it impacts quality.

When the Internet is down, so is VoIP. Traditional phones aren't affected by power like VoIP since they have its own power and work during blackouts.

Money and regs

Companies make their money by selling features and services. Connect anytime and anywhere there is an Internet connection or while in Wi-Fi-enabled hot spots. It's also exempt from traditional regulations and taxes, but that could change tomorrow though telecoms are working to keep it unregulated. This exemption is keeping prices down, and current prices are anywhere from $20 to $65 a month.

Meryl K. Evans is the Content Maven behind meryl's notes, eNewsletter Journal, and The Remediator Security Digest. She is also a PC Today columnist and a tour guide at InformIT. She is geared to tackle your editing, writing, content, and process needs. The native Texan resides in Plano, Texas, a heartbeat north of Dallas, and doesn't wear a 10-gallon hat or cowboy boots.

Voip Telephones Are Coming To A Couch Near You

Writen by Douglas Hanna

If you're one of the millions of Americans who are buying phone service from their cable companies, you may already be using VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) technology –whether you know it or not. The reason for this is that your cable company hasn't told you you're using VoIP because it does not want to scare you with a technology that sounds, well, kind of scary.

What exactly is VoIP?

Here's the simple explanation. VoIP technology sends phone calls over the Internet, just as if you were sending an email. To do so, it breaks your call down into many tiny digital packets. Then, when all these little packets arrive at your caller's phone, VoIP magically reassembles them back into your voice. Pretty neat, huh?

VoIP always costs less than conventional telephone service. There are two reasons for this. First, using the Internet to transmit calls is cheaper than using the phone company's clunky, old analog system. Second, using the Internet eliminates all hose pesky taxes and surcharges that can just about double your phone bill.

To date, you've needed two things to use VoIP – a computer and a broadband cable connection. But this is about to change. New cordless, VoIP phones have been announced that don't have to be connected through a computer, meaning that you can have one anywhere in your home. Of course, you will still need a broadband connection and a wireless router.

Panasonic and Philips have announced phones that will work with Skype, the popular provider of free and low-cost calls. In addition, Panasonic has announced a new cordless phone that will work with Vonage, and Philips has announced an alliance with Microsoft Corp. to introduce VoIP products.

When will these phones be available?

Netgear has said that it will announce prices and availability of its Skype Wi-Fi phones by the end of March, and Panasonic hopes to begin shipping its Skype-enabled phone by mid-year. On the other hand, Panasonic has offered no timetable for delivering it's Vonage-enabled phone. Philips has said it will launch its Skype phone in Europe in May and in the U.S. in July 2006. No one knows what these phones will cost as none of these companies has announced any pricing.

So, who knows? By this summer, there may be a VoIP phone sitting on your couch.

Here's another new technology that may soon be coming to you home. It's called HD Radio and what it does is enable AM and FM radio stations to broadcast their programs digitally. These digital broadcasts provide listeners with radically improved audio quality, more radio channels through multicasting, and new data services. To learn more about this amazing new technology, just go my Web site, http://www.hd-radio-home.com, to get all the buzz.

Douglas Hanna is a retired marketing executive and the author of numerous articles on HD radio, the Internet and family finances.

Voice Over Ip Companieswhich One Is Best For Me

Writen by Jon Arking

VoIP (pronounced "Voip") is a technology that allows people to communicate with one another by sending digital voice packets across the Internet, rather than across more traditional telecom networks. Not only is this sort of communicative system more productive, allowing more data to be sent over the same lines as those used to send voice data, it's also much cheaper. For this reason, VoIP has sustained a strong buzz in industry circles lately. As the price of Internet services drop, and the cost of communications becomes increasingly competitive, a number of companies have begun a feverish push to sell VoIP services in homes across America. That means that it's cheaper than ever to use VoIP services and save some good cash! However, like most new technologies, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of the service.

Most companies, like Vonage, offer comprehensive VoIP systems that completely replace your local phone carrier. These services are cheap, foregoing local phone charges completely, but require some home setup. That means that unless you're somewhat familiar with home networking, you might have some trouble setting up these systems. Most large companies offer installation services, however the hardware for the VoIP digital signal still resides in the home. Subscribers are responsible for maintaining the network. Other newer services do NOT require home installations. However they do require the user to at least have a local phone carrier such as Verizon or AT&T. These newer services do not require the users to install anything in their homes. Instead, they use local phone lines to connect the user and eventually route their calls to IP networks after the user first incurs local charges. Thus, these services are convenient and require little or no commitment, yet the savings are not as great. As the VoIP market gets hotter, companies are coming up with new ways to maximize both convenience and savings.

A good example of this innovation can be found at JaJah.com. JaJah, a newcomer to the VoIP game, uses an online website to control the source and destination of a VoIP call. Users enter the phone number from which they will be calling, as well as the destination number they wish to call, and the website takes over from there. The user immediately receives a call from the website which, when answered, connects the user to their intended destination number using almost all IP-based network lines. There are other companies like JaJah that people might want to check out before making a VoIP decision. Ultimately, it's up to you, the user, to decide which service best fits your wallet as well as your lifestyle.

Useful Voice over IP links:

VoIP Review Site - http://www.voipreview.org/
Vonage - http://www.vonage.com/
SunRocket - https://www.sunrocket.com/
Voice Eclipse - http://www.voiceeclipse.com/
iConnectHere - http://www.iconnecthere.com/
EarthLink TrueVoice - http://www.earthlink.net/
JaJah - www.JaJah.com

Jon Arking is a software architect in the greater Philadelphia region. He maintains a website offering free, one-on-one computer and technical support at http://www.JustHelpMe.Net

How Do I Compare Voip Providers

Writen by Rupert Laura

It's actually quite easy to compare VoIP providers because the technology is so new that the features that each provider offers differ quite a bit. Just like any service, you want to be sure that you get the best deal, and a program that will fit your needs and desires. Luckily, comparing VoIP providers will be quite simple and you'll quickly be able to select the provider that is best suited to you.

The first thing you'll want to do when you want to compare VoIP providers is find out which ones offer services in your area. You may be able to eliminate a couple providers just by looking at their areas of service. Once you eliminate the providers that just won't work out, you'll have to look at features and price.

One of the biggest differences between VoIP providers is the features that they can offer. Many have very easy to use routers that allow you to use a regular analog signal and digital signal when it's suitable. Some VoIP providers only allow calls to other VoIP users, and others allow you to call anyone, anywhere, anytime.

If you make a lot of long distance calls you'll really want to pay attention to the plans and the provider that you go with. Some VoIP providers don't distinguish between local and long distance calls, so you basically get all your calls one month for just a service fee. Other VoIP service providers don't allow you to make long distance calls, or they charge exorbitant fees for them. So, the amount of long distance phone calls you make may be the deciding factor in your choice for a VoIP provider.

Do a lot of research, just like you would when you are looking into any service. If you know whom you are dealing with it's a lot easier to make an educated decision. When you determine exactly what you need then it's just a matter of matching your needs with what is offered! Good luck, VoIP is definitely the wave of the future and it will only get easier and more advanced!

Laura Rupert is a freelance writer who contributes to The Tech FAQ

Voip Security Guide

Writen by Mansi Aggarwal

Revolutionizing the world of telephony, VoIP has become one of the fastest growing technologies of today. It has quickly gobbled up the market for the traditional and well established tools for communicating over large distances, by making them look antiquated and expensive.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is basically a process which converts your voice into digital signals that travel over internet. Its most prominent feature is its affordability. With VoIP you can make long distance calls at a fraction of cost that you used to pay to your telephone companies. It is primarily because of the fact that transferring digital signals over internet is quite cheaper than transferring analog signals over the traditional telephone lines.

However, nowadays VoIP is in the news not for the great savings in long distance calls that it offers but for the security concerns attached to it. As VoIP runs through internet, the information exchanged can be intercepted by anyone at any time. Moreover, because of its popularity VoIP has become a soft target for the hackers. In the absence of a strong firewall system, hackers may capture sensitive information such as credit card number and bank details. They can even launch denial of service attacks and shut down a voice conversation, or send spam or virus over the internet to disrupt the services. Another vulnerability that the IT sector is worried about the hacking of VoIP networks for making free calls. According to industry sources, a new generation of "phreakers" may be able to manipulate the data switched through a hybrid TDM-VoIP network which will allow them to exploit the billing system to make free calls. Another menace that is plaguing the VoIP networks is 'caller-id spoofing'. There are some hacking websites that allow people to control the phone number that appears on the receiver's caller-id display. Moreover, they can modify their voice with the help of voice modification software. Thus, they have become a useful tool for private investigators and pranksters.

VoIP service providers are now trying to secure their customers from these threats through the tunneling and encryption processes. These techniques prevent the hackers from capturing the information packets as they pass through the internet. Most of the service providers are using Layer 2 tunneling and an encryption method called Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to prevent anyone from getting the confidential information. However, despite of all these possible threats the IT segment is still enthusiastic about the cost savings and the added functionality that VoIP offers to their business. Most of them consider VoIP as a reliable and robust system and the security concerns not so serious to hamper the progress of VoIP.

Thus, although the attacks on the VoIP systems are at a nascent stage but they may gain teeth and hit the consumers sharply as the hackers become aware of the details of this service. Thus, it is necessary for the concerned authorities to understand the criticality of the situation and be ready to take the necessary preventive measures to prevent any major impact of these threats on VoIP in future.

Mansi Aggarwal recommends that you visit VOIP security for more information.

Finally Voip Worth A Look

Writen by Syed Akram

Everyone can Benefit from this Technology! Voip will be next communication tool in the world. Below are just a few of the most common uses of the ICON Communicator

Business Applications
Conferencing between two or hundreds of participants.
Board meetings and Committee meetings (meet quorums more easily).
Reduce travel and telephone budgets.
Sales team encouragement and motivation.
Product and services sales meetings.
Live Web site "click to talk" options and Live customer support.
Document construction and collaboration.
Financial report presentations.
Construct and review blueprints, drafting, and other technical applications.
Software and equipment training.
Always-on flat-rate makes it affordable to connect offices and departments in multiple locations, anywhere worldwide, just like an interactive intercom.

Personal and Family Use
Communicate with family members and share photos.
Talk with children in college.
Call friends and relatives in other countries and talk as long as you wish.
Create community rooms with people who share your interests.

Schools
Distance learning and home school applications.
Teacher-moderated after-school homework sessions.
Students can study together without being together.
School board meetings and Teacher training.
Academic intramural contests with other schools.
Always-on flat rate connection lets it become a high-tech intercom for large or multi-location campuses.

Charities, Organizations, Clubs, Alumni's and Churches
Interact with members and constituents.
Remote study and exchange groups.
Bring church services to those who can't attend.
Hold Board meetings and aways get a full quorum.
Fundraising campaigns (be sure to ask about our Affiliate program).
Planning sessions, Remote counseling, and peer support interaction.
Reduce travel and long-distance telephone budgets

Your possibilities, applications and cost savings are endless!

See you soon and Happy Marketing

Syed Akram was Independent Affiliate with Market Depot Inc. U.S. With 5 years experience in online/offline marketing. He now actively in helping people who want to succeed work at home with free coaching and traning with Voip software which also free to download at http://www.mdi365.com/futurebiz

Is Your Voip Service Secure

Writen by Ron King

For individuals, VOIP security is primarily a matter of preventing others from eavesdropping on their conversations. Some VOIP service providers offer voice security through encryption or separate data routes.

Regular precautions for transferring files should, of course, always be followed. A firewall should be in place for protecting your computer from the internet and any data or program that is downloaded should be checked for viruses.

But users should reealize that VOIP hardware devices are inherently more vulnerable to attack. Some types of equipment can be made unstable or inoperable when they receive certain types of data. Some internet phones are also susceptible to data piracy, revealing private information under certain conditions.

While this probably won't be of much concern when you're calling Uncle Tim, it is a huge concern for businesses that consistently use telephone communication for discussing sensitive business information. As VOIP popularity increases, security is becoming a growing concern and is now receiving widespread attention.

Security Issues

It's mainly businesses that need to be concerned with security issues related to VOIP. They are more susceptible to the Denial of Service (DOS) attacks and other forms of obnoxious hacking because many businesses operate personal gateways and other equipment for connecting to the internet.

There are several security issues associated with VOIP. Eavesdropping is an understandable fear with both regular and VOIP calls, but there are additional concerns unique to this technology. Since VOIP data is traveling across the internet just like any other kind of data, it is vulnerable to the same types of attacks. Hackers have countless software tools available to them to retrieve information being transmitted over the internet. These tools are as effective with voice data as with any other kind of data.

Another security threat is the possibility of sending viruses with VOIP data. This hasn't surfaced yet, but viruses could potentially overload VOIP networks, reduced sound quality and create delays.

VOIP isn't secure against spam either. This refers to receiving unsolicited marketing calls from companies selling their goods and services.

There are several points in the transmission of VOIP calls that hackers can use to recover information. In additin to retrieving actual conversations, they can also access critical information such as user identities and VOIP phone numbers. With this information, a hacker can place phone calls using someone else's identity.

Attackers could also record phone calls while eavesdropping on conversations and even potentially restructure voice data to create discussions that never actually existed! Log files could also be accessed and altered.

There are ways currently available that address such security issues. The first is with encryption that provides the same sort of security used in sending credit card information over a secure data connection. The second is to separate VOIP data from other internet traffic by using a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN). Both methods can degrade call quality, but they present an alternative for sensitive calls.

About The Author
Ron King Visit http://www.voip-solutions-now.com to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Should Your Business Switch To Voip

Writen by Juzaily Ramli

Whether you run a small business or a big corporation, switching to VoIP is something that you must not delay. As we speak, many companies are making the switch to VoIP upon realising the many advantages of incorporating their business with VoIP. In a nutshell, these benefits include saving costs and increasing productivity.

Below is an overview on why your business should make the switch to VoIP.

VoIP Saves Cost

No matter how you hate to admit it, you cannot deny the fact that today, without telecommunications your business can be considered non-existent. We have become so dependent on the telephone, fax, Internet, E-mail, Customer Service through telephone, web-conferencing, online web applications, and any other business needs that we cannot even begin to imagine how we survived without them previously.

Don't fret, as VoIP handles all of it by integrating everything into one application. Not only that, VoIP has also combined other software applications such as accounting programs and other PC based applications such as Microsoft Words, Excel, etc. in order to make your business a breeze. Do you see how much this reduces the cost for your business while at the same time increases your business productivity?

Besides all that, your business will save more cost with VoIP as it reduces your long distance charges.

VoIP is Perfect for Call Centres

As VoIP offers benefits that every business today could ever dreamed of, such as flexibility, cost efficiency and not forgetting enhanced customer service applications, Call Centers are now showing their interest in VoIP and are starting to make the switch too.

In the past, a Call Center is located in a building where you operate your business. This becomes a problem when your business eventually expands to another location where another Call Center would then have to be provided and set up. This means spending more money and consuming more time.

With VoIP, should your business expand one day, you now have the option of outsourcing your work overseas by employing home-based employees for a lot less in terms of labor virtually anywhere in the world and able to work in different time zones. Not only will this save you money, your business can now afford even greater worldwide customer service around the clock all year round.

As previously discussed, with the integration of data, audio and other web based features, customer service calls will be handled more efficiently. In this case, calls will be transferred more professionally and greater care can be provided to your customers.

VoIP for Mobile Employees

Another great way that your business can benefit from VoIP is if you have employees who travel a lot to almost anywhere around the world. In normal circumstances, the company would provide their employees with personal cell phones for them to make calls whenever they are on the move.

With VoIP, your mobile employees will always stay connected with the company and yet still lets you save money in fees as there are no roaming charges with VoIP. This way, your employees can communicate with each other and with the corporate headquarters more frequently without having to worry about the long distance charges.

VoIP Lets You Stay In Touch With Your Customers

Ever been in a situation where you call someone at his office, only to find out that he is not in? What do you do next? You would have to hang up the phone and call his mobile. This added nuisance is not an efficient way to handle your customers. You would want to be there when your customer calls and you would want to stay connected with your customers at all times or you might lose the sale.

By utilizing VoIP, all calls from the customers will be routed to you no matter where you are, thus increasing your business' productivity as the customers are able to talk to you without having to call you again another time. With the ability of choosing the same area codes as your customers, all of their calls will be charged as local calls. This way, your customer service applications will be greatly enhanced by VoIP.

Real-Time Global Web Conferencing

As we are entering the era of business globalization, web-conferencing and training have become very important parts of business. Conference cost is very expensive especially if it is worldwide. You would have to set a specific time so that everybody would be able to be on the call. However, attempts to reach all employees for the conference call could be time consuming. More often than not, some might not be able to make it as they are overseas, for example.

On the other hand, with VoIP, those are a thing of the past. With an Internet connection and a laptop, all you have to do is set the time for the conference and everybody can be there for the call no matter where they are.

So, there you go; five reasons how your business can benefit tremendously with VoIP. We all know that telecommunications are on the rise and VoIP is leading this revolution. With many new features being added daily with VoIP, the way businesses will be conducted will never be the same again. The only question that every business person should ask himself is whether he wants to grow with the technology or get left behind. If you choose the latter, you will never know the full potential of your business and how far VoIP can take your business to the next level.

Juzaily Ramli is the proud owner of a site that discusses on all things VoIP including business VoIP for those who are interested to increase their business productivity; VoIP tutorial and the benefits of VoIP for those who want to know more about VoIP and many more information about VoIP services.

His site can be found at http://www.voip-revolution-info-site.com

Rarely Asked Questions On Merlin Magix System But Questions That Nonetheless Bear Answering

Writen by Cameron George Elliott

In two sentences or less, what is Merlin Magix System?
Merlin Magix System is comprehensive communications system, loaded with the advanced features that your business needs.

What, exactly, does that mean?
That Merlin Magix System gives your company a public branch exchange (PBX) that can support both traditional and IP phones.

What types of companies would benefit from Merlin Magix System?
Primarily smaller and mid- sized ones: ones that are looking for a system providing up to 80 lines and 200 extensions.

Could you say, give me a little more information?
No problem. Merlin Magix System is designed for the small company who wants the very best communications system; the company who wants a network with up- to- date, advanced features.

Merlin Magix System is also an excellent fit for larger companies looking to outfit their branch offices.

What makes Merlin Magix System an excellent choice?
All of the advanced features you could ask for in a communications system: full communications capabilities, comprehensive messaging capabilities, integrated network access, and enhanced mobility. And Merlin Magix System is incredibly easy to use and maintain.

Those all sound highly technical; what does comprehensive messaging capabilities mean?
It refers to the unified messaging application: Merlin Magix System combines both voice and e- mail messages, and you can manage those messages using your internet browser.

What makes Merlin Magix System so easy to use?
You program the system using Microsoft Windows- based System Programming and Maintenance (WinSPM) software. WinSPM is very user- friendly: the application provides detailed information on the status of your network, presented in graphical format that's easy to read and understand. By using WinSPM, you able to get a comprehensive picture of how your Merlin Magix System network is running.

Additionally, WinSPM allows you to manage your network around the world.

My company is relatively new, and we don't have tons of extra money. Can using Merlin Magix System save money?
It sure can; Merlin Magix System simplifies and streamlines network administration and maintenance, which can definitely save time and money.

What are some other benefits of having a network powered by Merlin Magix System?
-Your network can be easily upgraded and enhanced to give your company the most advanced, powerful network available.
-Merlin Magix System is flexible and scalable; it can met the evolving needs of you company.
-Networks powered by Merlin Magix System are compatible with both traditional and IP phones.

Cameron Elliott is an Telephony specialist at avaya voip phone systems where he extols the benefits of Avaya Phone Systems

New Vphone Keychain Device Makes Internet Calls On The Road A Snap

Writen by Kevin Patterson

Good news for VoIP consumers: A seldom-used, but major feature of Internet phone service just got a big boost: the ability to take your phone with you on the road, to make and take calls from the same number at the same low price.

The problem with this idea is that you usually have to take your adapter on the road with you to hook up a regular phone to the Internet, or install your VoIP service provider's software on any computer you want to use - typically limiting your options to the use of your own laptop computer.

Vonage has come to the rescue with a solution that will help users realize the full potential of VoIP: the V-Phone. The V-Phone is a keychain device - actually an ordinary USB drive with Vonage software and your user ID pre-loaded - that you can plug into a USB port on any Windows-based computer with broadband access, for instant Internet phone service.

The device is easy to use: you plug it into a USB port and the software loads automatically, displaying a small window with a number pad that resembles the keys on a regular phone. Online authentication between the keychain and Vonage's servers typically takes from 30 to 90 seconds to complete.

Importantly, the V-Phone does not load any applications to the computer's hard drive during setup, so you don't have to worry about leaving "debris" on other people's computers when you're finished. Simply unplug the device and all icons disappear, along with any trace that you were ever there.

The V-Phone comes with a jack for plugging in standard cell phone earplugs, a set of which are included in the package from Vonage. This has a couple of advantages: you don't need to locate the separate sound and audio ports on the computer, and with desktop PCs, you don't need to unplug the speakers to plug in your earphones.

The unit sells for $40, which doesn't include the $10 activation fee and $10 for shipping. It's available for purchase online from Vonage now, and will be sold by major retailers in September with a $40 rebate.

Calling plans are the same as for any normal Vonage account: $15 per month for 500 minutes, $25 for unlimited residential use and $35 for business service.

One important point to note is that the device comes programmed with its own number and calling plan. There is no option offered for having an adapter and V-phone programmed with the same number. This means that if you choose to port your existing home Vonage number to a V-Phone, your home will be without service every time you take the device on the road.

This makes it most practical for businesses and other users willing to add an additional Vonage account, rather than transfer an existing number to the V-Phone.

This novel product takes mobile Internet-based phone usage to another level. That's great news for Vonage which, as the industry leader, is in the enviable position of having to fight off rivals who are cutting prices and even giving away phones for free in attempt to gain market share.

The bad news for Vonage is that this device is a no-brainer - it's surprising that no service provider offered it previously. The likelihood of Vonage getting a patent on the technology is not great, and it's certain that rivals will be offering competing products soon.

That competition could be even better news for consumers.

Kevin Patterson
VoIP-4-Non-Geeks.com

VoIP-4-Non-Geeks.com is a content-based website providing VoIP information for "everyone else." Learn everything you need to know about VoIP - in plain English. No Geek-speak allowed!

Phone Service Alternatives

Writen by Craig Whitley

Are you getting the best phone service for your hard-earned dollars? If you stayed on with whatever company got "dibs" on your area when phone service was deregulated, you may be paying more than you need to. Businesses have learned that there is a lot of money to be saved by comparing phone services options and choosing carefully. Why should they get all the benefits? Take a look at your phone service bills from the past year. Take note whether your make more long distance calls or if local and/or toll calls take a bigger bite out of your budget. Knowing what kind of service you need is the first step in taking control of your phone service costs.

If your long distance phone service is costing you an arm and a leg, here's a secret—you can make those calls for free. There's a new technology called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) that lets you make long distance calls over the Internet. Because the signal is not carried over land-lines operated by a phone service, the only charge you pay is your regular bill to your Internet service provider. To use VoIP instead of a traditional phone service, you must have a computer with broadband, or high-speed Internet access. The cost for this access may see high at first glance, but when you realize you save the money you would normally pay for long distance phone service, the true cost comes way down.

You can also use VoIP in place of your local phone service. One of the great things about VoIP is that you can save money using it even if the person you are calling only has regular phone service. Another way to save money on local phone service is to use a cellular phone instead of a land-line. This tactic takes a bit more consideration, because if you don't have a good cellular service plan, using your cell instead of a local phone service can end up costing you more. Before you decide to shut off your regular phone service for good, be sure to crunch the numbers and make sure a cellular phone or VoIP is the best way to handle the number of local calls you make on a regular basis.

Voice over Internet Protocol calling makes good sense for most small businesses. Large business spend enough money on their phone service to work out the best deal, but many small businesses don't have that clout. Using an alternative phone service is one way small businesses can put their profits where they do the most good.

Craig Whitley is a freelance writer and Internet entrepreneur. He is a featured columnist for numerous business-related websites, including Your-Phone-Service.info.

How Does Voip Work

Writen by Rupert Laura

VoIP is said to be the technology of the future because it allows us to do things that were impossible just five years ago. Now, instead of having a public telephone network the VoIP technology allows you to use your broadband connection to make telephone calls. What's great about this is that you can use the phones you have always used; you just get to combine two services into one.

The VoIP technology works if you have a broadband connect and a device called a router. The router enables your phone to call just like it always has, but now it's over the broadband digital connection instead of through a conventional phone line. In addition to a router there is a VoIP gateway that connects you to a voice over network so that your voice can be converted into a digital sound instead of through the analog technology of the past. Information is basically sent in packets across broadband lines to give a great sound and seamless connection to those who have VoIP service and even those who do not. VoIP really is a revolution in combining internet access and telephone service because it utilizes the same technology for two very different things.

The VoIP is great because now you can have just one bill that allows you to have phone access as well as broadband service. Luckily, most companies can even allow you to be online at the same time as you're on the phone. There really aren't any limitations to the VoIP service and in the future it will only get easier. In the coming years digital phones will be made so that each consumer won't have to have a router, and VoIP service will probably be more common than those who have a public telephone network. If you already have a broadband connection you should definitely consider a VoIP phone connection because it's most cost efficient, it's practical, and it really is the way telephone and internet service is going!

Laura Rupert is a freelance writer who contributes to The Tech FAQ.

Frequently Asked Questions About Avaya Media Gateways

Writen by Cameron George Elliott

What are Media Gateways?
Avaya Media Gateways are one half of a powerful communications system: by working in conjunction with Media Servers, they to provide every branch office complete and total access to the central network.

Once the Media Gateway/ Media Server combination is installed and configured, every employee will only be an intercom away and have access to the same array of telephony features and applications.

What is the benefit of installing a Media Gateway?
An Avaya Media Gateway provides a seamless transition between the existing investments and advanced IP telephony, allowing branch offices to benefit from enhanced connectivity and security and increased productivity.

The benefits from Media Gateways are a two- way street: branch offices receive enhanced communications while the central office enjoys simplified administration.

Media Gateways integrate multiple functionality into a single box, greatly increasing efficiency and savings: telephony, routing, and data switching have all been combined into a single unit, simplifying operations and reducing maintenance.

What size of businesses can use Media Gateways?
There is a Media Gateways for all sizes of businesses, from ones who have 4 employees, to ones with 400.

The G150 and G250 supports 2 and 12 stations, the G30 supports 8 to 40 employees, and the G750 supports up to 450 employees.

Who should use Avaya Media Gateway?
All types of business and enterprises who have branch offices can benefit from installing a Media Gateway.

Media Gateways fill one of two niches for businesses: ones who want to integrate telephony capabilities and to take advantage of advanced business applications, and businesses who's productivity and efficiency is bogged down by their obsolete communications system.

Are Media Gateways hard to set up?
Not at all, in fact making branch offices operational is an quick, cost effective process; a skilled technician can install and configure a Media Gateway from the central office.

If a Media Gateway connects a branch office to the central network, what happens if there is a power failure at the company headquarters?
There's nothing to worry about; every Media Gateway is equipped with a Local Serviceable Processor (LSP), maintaining complete functioning and ensuring continued productivity during WAN power outs.

Additionally, Media Gateways have an Emergency Power Transfer Relay (ETR), allowing emergency calls to 911 during complete power outs.

Cameron Elliott is an Telephony specialist at avaya voip phone systems where he extols the benefits of Avaya Phone Systems

Sunrocket You Say Who Is Sunrocket Voip

Writen by Hugh McMarlin

Would you be able to answer this question if you were asked,"Who is the leading and number one Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) company in the nation today?" I bet that you would! You have seen their many commercials and would be correct if you answered,Vonage. Now, would you be able to name the company in that lonely number two spot? They don't have any commercials, so maybe not! Well,if you guessed SunRocket then you would have been correct.

SunRocket is an innovative and so called,"up and coming player", in the Voice over Internet Protocol(VoIP) game. SunRocket VoIP is now number two, but striving through many innovations to be number one! They call themselves the "no gotcha" phone company because they advertise a set price and then don't load up your bill with nebulous charges like some local phone companies that we are all familiar with. SunRocket's gaol is simply to bring to the public the very best, risk-free, easy to use Internet phone service with no hidden charges, and no other "gotchas".

They were the very first VoIP company to offer a $199($16.58/month) flat fee service for a years use of their VoIP! They call this the $199 SunRocket Annual Edition and I must agree that there isn't any other company offering anything close to this. For paying annually(all at once) a consumer gets two phone numbers with enhanced voice mail, over a dozen built in calling features(call waiting etc.), unlimited calling in the USA, Canada, and Puerto Rico, and up to 100 free minutes for international calling, and a couple of free phones! Now, how long will they remain number two offering all of this?

Paul Ericson is the chairman and co-founder of SunRocket along with Joyce Dorris. They are both former MCI executives who had a hand in creating MCI's 1-800-COLLECT campaign(Remember...these advertisements were everywhere). They are used to thinking "outside the box" and started SunRocket in 2004 to brake the mold on conventional and VoIP phone service choices that were available to consumers in the marketplace at that time. They aimed to create a true "no gotcha company" that was easy to use, low in price, without contracts, and with a money back guarantee if a consumer decides that VoIP isn't for them! They also took great strides to put solid and expanding capitol sources together to assure that the quality of what they were building was not jeopardized because they ran out of or short of money.

SunRocket has accomplished putting together a solid company that fills the needs of what consumers are looking for today in a phone company. If service, low cost, features and options galore, are what you are looking for then take a good look at SunRocket because they deliver in all of these areas.

Hugh J. McMarlin has many online endeavors and his informational VoIP site, http://www.voip-carrier-4u.com is his latest. Read his other articles on SunRocket the "no gotcha" company. You can also learn more about the pros and cons of VoIP by reading his article on the Pros and Cons of VoIP.

The Future Of Communications Voice Over Internet

Writen by Jill Meluson

When was the last time that you were able to make a long-distance call for free? If you said "never", you probably have not been introduced to VOIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol. But, is this new technology as efficient as its counterpart, analog telephone service?

Since the demand for world-wide communication has grown, the internet has become the most popular way of communicating. Although Communication via e-mail seemed to be the cheapest way to do business with those overseas, it wasn't always the most effective.

If analog phone service was always cost effective, we probably would not have to wait for someone to open their inbox and hit reply. Still, verbal communication is the best way to build strong relationships and eventually, "close the deal". VOIP service is a cost effective as e-mail and as effective as its alternative, the analog phone service.

When compared to analog phone service, VOIP is cheaper and has the same quality of service. Since VOIP uses a single network to transfer voice and data, the overall cost per call is cheaper to the service provider then using two separate networks.

When voice and data are transferred together on a single network, the service providers only need to build and maintain one network, thus hire less staff. These companies have also learned to manage both voice traffic and data applications correctly to reduce any sacrifice in quality.

Although there is a monthly charge for the service, VOIP phones cost about the same as a regular business phone. With all of its benefits, VOIP should take the place of analog telephone service within a few years.

About the author:

Jill Meluson is the Marketing Director for TelephoneIsland.com which is a subsidiary of Grand Slam Telecommunications. For more on VOIP and business communications please visit http://www.telephoneisland.com

Voip Isps Need To Improve For Smes To Take Up Online Phone Calls

Writen by Mike Bromley

I'm a manager in a small UK company whose portfolio also includes looking after the company's computers and telecommunications. On a daily basis I am contacted by telecom firms asking me if they can take 'just 10 minutes of my time to save me 60% on my phone bills or similar'. Now these guys are not selling VoIP but something called carrier pre-select. That's when you pay your line rental to one company and pay for your call charges to another, who will charge you at a lower rate than the line rental company.

I have to say these guys are seasoned telesales people. They know every trick in the book to keep you talking, a few haven't even got the hint from my standard line of 'I need to finish this conversation now and hang up the phone'. Anyway to get me a better line to tell these guy's I'd love to be able to say 'we're on VoIP, and you can't compete with those prices'. However, I can't use that line yet. Why? Because my ISP connection uptime is not reliable enough to switch.

A few weeks ago after a thunderstorm we lost full ADSL connection in one of our branches for three days. Now if that weren't bad enough to lose e-mail capability and the various web sites crucial to the running of our business, if we had lost phone capability as well then as a recruitment agency we would have lost both business and customers.

This is not the only service outage we have experienced, I would approximate that once a month we can expect to lose service for at least 3 hours in one of our branches. You might suggest that I move to a more reputable supplier, however we are with one of the largest and most well known ISP's in the UK, so we do not really have the option of changing to a different supplier. Until the ISP's can guarantee a better continuation of service then I shan't be recommending VoIP to our Managing Director for his business.

© Mike Bromley 2005

Business VoIP is a resource site for all things VoIP.

Needless High Risk Exposure For Business Using Computer Phones

Writen by Dee Scrip

The Facts

• Computer phones (VoIP) offer the most optimal means of communicating when considering quality and cost, and can save businesses up to 80% on their phone bills when calling from PC to PC, to landlines, or to mobile phones, regardless of company size.

• Over 90% of all VoIP solutions providers operate on unsecure lines or platforms, whether free or charging for services.

• Greater than 95% of all VoIP solutions providers do not have their own patented technology

General Information

• Calls placed on unsecure lines travel from one computer (IP address) over the internet to another computer (IP address) have little or no protection in between calls to guard against terminal viruses, Trojan horses, unscrupulous hackers, or uninvited guests listening in on private conversations.

These unsecure lines leave users dangerously vulnerable to the inevitable and expensive computer crash that forebodingly looms over the horizon.

• Calls placed on secure lines go through a VoIP platform (server) that incorporates its own security (including patented technology) against the ills of unsecure lines, thereby offering maximum security, privacy, and peace of mind for its users.

• Note: higher enrollment and monthly fees, or well known phone companies now offering VoIP services do not necessarily automatically guarantee security.

Recommendations

• Contact your VoIP solutions provider (if applicable) and request written information regarding security of their service, along with patented technology they own. Ask if their service hosts embedded spyware on lines and/or allows public access to names and numbers of subscribers.

If the requested assurances cannot be produced, take immediate action to avoid playing Russian Roulette with your business.

• Protect the security of your company's communications and privacy, while simultaneously experiencing exponential savings on phone bills, by locating and subscribing to a VoIP solutions provider who offers a secure platform that incorporates its own patented technology.

• Analyze your computer's security for free by going to http://www.Symantec.com/SecurityCheck/

Dee Scrip and her close friend Andy Murray operate the website http://www.whypay4calls.com. Where you can experience a 7 day free trial with a secure line on patented technology. NO contracts, obligations, or hassles!

Voip Dont Make A Crucial Mistake Advantages Vs Disadvantages

Writen by Tim ONeill

Before signing up to a VoIP provider you need to do your homework. Sure you learn what VoIP is about and you research which provider will be the best for you, but don't make the vital error of not considering your current fixed line circumstance.

First and foremost is the matter of whether the fixed line is going to be retained. In most cases it probably will be as either an backup in for emergency circumstances or where the fixed line may be cheaper for certain calls, especially if utilizing either VoipStunt or Skype which clearly point out they do not nor intend to provide emergency calling access.

In certain countries you need to retain the fixed line for your broadband service so this must be factored into the overall cost comparison of a fixed line service versus a VoIP service or combination there of.

A further complication occurs where bundling occurs. That is discounts if local calls, national or long distance calls and broadband service are all combined with the one provider. In the case of one provider you will pay $29.95 line rental, $49 which allows a cap of $120 of local, long distance and mobile phone calls, and $39 for broadband internet access totaling about $118 a month. For someone on this providers bundle wishing to take up VoIP, you would remove the $49 for calls, retain the line rental to provide broadband access and because the bundle is removed (no local or long distance calls retained) the cost of the broadband service increases by $20 to $59.

It is clear from the above example that you would need to be making significant calls at very low VoIP rates to make the change or VoIP addition worthwhile as there would only be $29 to absorb monthly VoIP provider costs.

The other alternative however in this case is to get a cheaper broadband internet service which then provides more scope to cash in on accessing telephone calls over the internet and over all reducing communications costs.

Summary

It is crucial to examine current telecommunication costs prior to signing up with a paid VoIP provider service. This does not however impact upon accessing free VoIP providers as a second telephone service.

The Author has an Associate Diploma in Electronic Engineering. For further information, books or VoIP items, please visit All About Voice Over Internet Protocol.

Benefits Of Voip Why You Must Switch To Voip Now

Writen by Juzaily Ramli

Many people have heard of VoIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol, but not many know about the benefits of VoIP. In short, VoIP is a technology that transmits audio files as data over the Internet to another computer or a VoIP phone or a standard landline telephone, depending on what you use. As it uses the Internet as the medium, call charges can be minimised.

By not knowing these benefits, people are not aware of the advantages that VoIP has to offer and hence are not making the switch as they should. Below is a list of some of the benefits of VoIP:

Cheaper Calls

Who would not jump at the opportunity of reducing their local and especially long distance calls? Different service providers would offer different packages. Some might offer free unlimited long distance calls, while some might offer calls for a small fee.

Whether it is for your business or residential use, VoIP is undoubtedly cheaper than the standard landline telephones. Families can talk to each other longer, and businesses can increase their productivity.

Additional Features At No Charge

Features that are normally offered for a fee are often free of charge with VoIP services. Features such as Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Call Waiting, Call Transfer, etc. are offered at no additional cost with VoIP. For business purposes, features such as email and web utilities, just to name a few, are also offered free of charge. Long gone are the days where you have to pay for these extras.

Choosing Own Area Code

Another great benefit of VoIP is the ability to choose your own phone numbers and area codes. This means that, should you want to maintain your existing number, you can always transfer your number to the new VoIP service or you may decide to choose a new one based on the area code.

The latter is beneficial if you have family members and friends who are staying in a different area code from you. All you have to do is to change your number to the same area code as theirs. This way, whenever they call you, they will be charged for local calls. They will thank you for this additional savings on their phone bills.

Great For Business

Business owners are now switching to VoIP as we speak. With all the features and benefits discussed above, they can reduce their business costs and phone bills, hence increasing their productivity. With VoIP, employees are able to stay in touch with their employers, colleagues and especially their customers.

This further saves a lot of money if you have mobile employees who travel extensively like sales people in your business. They can stay connected at all times and never again miss an important call. All they have to do is to plug in and accept the calls no matter where they are in the world.

On top of that, VoIP is a blessing if you have a call center for your business. This way, you are able to outsource your work inexpensively to agents in the countries that your business operates in.

Now that you are aware of the many benefits of VoIP, as well as the flexibility and freedom that VoIP offers, you know that they are far more advantageous compared to the standard landline telephones.

Unfortunately, many people will keep on paying the high monthly phone bills when they could have easily made the switch to VoIP and save on their next month's charges with a single decision.

Juzaily Ramli is the owner of a site that discusses not only the benefits of VoIP, but also business VoIP, amongst other things. VoIP will revolutionize the way we communicate. Discover the VoIP revolution and how it can benefit you and your business today: http://www.voip-revolution-info-site.com

Ip Telephony Around The World

Writen by Lars Hansen

New international telecommunications companies are popping up and offer IP telephony with big savings all over the world. Some companies like Kazil will only be marketed by their customers/distributors. If you know someone who is interested in the service, the companies will pay you for referral of new customers in a Network Marketing plan.

Using VoIP means huge savings on calling, especially for people who make international calls.

It is possible to make calls to other members for FREE in the global IP telephony networks.

Users can use a SoftPhone software solution installed on their PC, but in addition it is also possible to buy a converter. That way, users can use their 'old' analog phones without the need of a PC that is turned on. The phone service can also be accessed from all computers connected to the Internet through a WebPhone.

Companies like Skype and Kazil offers a solution where users can rent a local phone number in order to receive calls from the PSTN network (normal old phone system). The smart thing is that a businessman, who has customers in different countries or areas, can get local numbers that is all connected to the same global number. I.e. you can have an office phone in New – and even when you are at the Bahamas, you will be able to receive the incoming calls, i.e. on your notebook PC without expensive costs for diverting.

All incoming calls can be diverted for low cost to any mobile/cellular phone or landline phone in the world. That way you can also save the normal roaming cost.

Some companies also offers a call back solution where users can use there normal landline or mobile/cellular phone to call a PC (softphone), landline or mobile/cellular phone all over the world.

Lars Hansen has worked with global VoIP soulutions for the last 3 years. To find more information on VoIP and how you can start your own IP telephony business, visit http://www.1worldfone.com/ and http://www.voip-catalog.com/

10 Reasons Why Voip Is Great For Business

Writen by Jane Perkis

I've used VoIP technology for the past few years for my home line, and recently made the switch to using VoIP for my business, as well. For those who may not know, the acronym VoIP stands for "voice-over-ip", and, essentially, means that our phone calls can now travel over data lines, much the same way our email does.

If you follow telecommunications at all, you may remember the early days of this kind internet telephony: users needed a computer, an internet connection, and a headset with microphone in order to make and receive calls. The amount of equipment required was rather cumbersome, and one could only make calls while sitting at the computer. Now, though, the communications landscape has changed, as VoIP can be utilized in much the same way as a traditional land-line-- you can use a wireless phone and take VoIP around the house, or you can get a so-called "soft phone", which enables you to take your calling around the world.

VoIP plans are less expensive than traditional calling plans, and come standard with desirable features such as call-waiting, call-forwarding, 3-way calling, and voicemail. In fact, you can even have your voicemail delivered as an audio file to your email account, saving you the time and hassle of calling in to retrieve messages.

Aside from the cost savings, calling features, and convenience, (reasons 1, 2, and 3) VoIP is great for business in seven other ways. First, you can choose your area code. So, for example, if you have clients in Los Angeles, but you work from New York, you can obtain a Los Angeles area code so you seem to be right next door. This can be a good way to create a business presence in multiple cities very cost effectively. Next, you can order toll-free lines for less than traditional carriers. Having a toll free line makes your business seem bigger. Also, you can take your calling plan on the road when you travel, and can use your 'softphone' to make calls to/from hotels. No more paying exorbitant fees for local calls, which saves you money (reason 6)

The higher end VoIP plans allow you to place an unlimited number of calls for one set fee. This can help you budget your business expenses more effectively. You can forward calls to any number when you're out of the office, meaning more flexibility. VoIP also allows you to call internationally for very low rates, so you can expand your business reach and influence across the globe. (reason 9). Setting up a VoIP phone system is easy, and can often be done in less than five minutes, provided you have high speed internet and an IP-usable phone (reason 10).

So, for all these reasons, VoIP is great for business. It's affordable, convenient, and simple to use. As the world of business gets more complex, it's nice to know your telecommunication systems doen't have to follow suit.

Jane Perkis is a technology enthusiast who uses VoIP for home and business. Please visit http://www.voice-over-ip-advice to learn more about VoIP for your home or office.

Beginners Guide On Voice Over Internet Protocol Voip

Writen by Claudia Walters

Nowadays, VoIP became one of the hottest technologies following up on the explosion of high speed Internet access. PC-to-PC calls, ATA phones, IP phones… the existence of VoIP had changed how people think about long distance calling plan. As predicted by some of those experts, VoIP might be the technology that kills off the traditional telephones.

What is VoIP?

If you never heard of VoIP, be equipped for a radical change on current telephony systems and long distance calling plans.

Voice over Internet Protocol, or in short, VoIP, is a simple method that takes ordinary analog audio signals and transform it into digital form and traverse in distance through the Internet. Several ways are used for VoIP calls: Analog Telephone Adaptors (ATA), IP phones, and PC-to-PC calls are some of the common ones. While ATA and IP phones will cost you a certain amount on the initial setup and monthly costs; PC-to-PC calls are absolutely free for any distance calls.

The impact of VoIP technology is huge. With VoIP, you can simply enjoy much cheaper phone calls by utilizing your existing PC set up and data networks. For those of you who are already paying a monthly fee for an Internet connection, this means that you can use that same connection to place free long distance phone calls. This process works by using already available VoIP software to make phone calls over the Internet, essentially circumventing phone companies and their service charges.

Besides, VoIP gives a greater flexibility to business travelers. Make VoIP calls from anywhere with Internet connections thru your laptop. With VoIP, you can also enjoy enhanced calling features such as calls forwarding, caller ids, call blockings and voicemail calls function.

How VoIP works?

We already knew when making VoIP calls, caller's voice in analog form are collected; transformed into digital form; transmitted through Internet; and transformed again into analog voice for the listeners to listen.

However, how does the digital voice signal travel? Unlike conventional phone system that relies on circuit switching; voice signals in VoIP calls are transfer through packet-switching.

Packet-switching is the same method that you use when you view a website. For example, as you read this website, your PC does not maintain constant connection to the website. Instead, connections are only made to send and receive information on an as needed basis. It works the same for VoIP calls as this system allows the transfer of information over the Internet to work so quickly. While circuit switching (conventional telephone calls) maintains a constant and open connection; packet-switching builds a connections that is just enough for sending/receiving bits of data in the VoIP conversations.

By utilizing this special way of data sending, VoIP calls can be done with very little data transmission. This in turn allows voice signals to be sent on the least congested lines and thus a cheaper calling plans.

Drawbacks on VoIP calls

While most analysts consider it will be at least a decade before companies and telephone providers make the full switch to VoIP, the hidden power for the technology's applications nowadays are very impressive.

Not to mention the emergency call issue on VoIP calls; there are quite a few VoIP's drawbacks that need to be solved in order to have VoIP calls replace our conventional telephones. The power problem of VoIP phones, the security of the VoIP calls, as well as the compatible-ability of VoIP phones with other electronics appliances are some of the major problems that need to be solved.

Bottom line

Undeniable, VoIP is now a very powerful communication way that you can't close the eyes to. To replace the traditional telephone system or not, VoIP service is here to hang about. Millions in United States are using VoIP calls nowadays and the numbers seem growing rapidly. With the savings and flexibility that the technology already offers, and new advances just ahead on the horizon, we can expect those numbers will only increase in the future.

The author, Claudia Walters, is an expert writer in office tools and VOIP technologies. View her latest writing assignments on Internet answering machine at http://www.MyCallWave.com Learn how you can avoid missing calls while online with CallWave call alerts and save up the cost for an extra phone line.

Voip Phone System

Writen by Steve Valentino

A Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, transmission is initiated by converting voice into digital format. This can be done by Analog Telephone Adaptor (ATA) or by the computer itself using software. In the Public Switch Transmission Network (PSTN), the dialing of the number initiates the call by connecting the call to the public switch and routing the call to the correct party's telephone number through the telephone network.

A VoIP network also has similar functions like that of PSTN, in addition to the IP provider and Internet Service Provider (ISP). The major components of a VoIP network are user devices (one or both ends), a call processing server, VoIP gateways, gatekeepers and an IP network. The user device consists of VoIP phones, traditional phones with accessories and computer-based devices. VoIP phones may be hard or soft phones.

A VoIP hard phone is like a traditional phone, but instead of a phone jack, it has an Ethernet port through which it communicates directly with a VoIP server or another VoIP phone. It doesn't need a personal computer, only an internet connection. These hard phones may also come cordless.

A dialup hard phone is one with a built-in modem instead of an Ethernet port. A wifi hard phone is built with a wifi transceiver to connect to a wifi base station to be connected to a remote VoIP server. This can be used to transfer calls to a GSM network.

A soft phone is run by software in the computer. This requires appropriate hardware such as a microphone, a speaker or a USB port. Once dialed, the phone number is processed by the call processor, which is actually hardware running a database mapping program called soft switch; the software manages all connections. This is also called IP PBX (private branch exchange), similar to the PBX of the PSTN lines.

There are gateways and gatekeepers that control the call admission and bandwidth management. They also control the creation of IP packets that contain the voice data and other information about the call.

Finally, there is the IP network, which consists of distributed routers ensuring connectivity. This IP logical switch is referred to as the soft-switch architecture. These four components form the phone system for VoIP, in addition to the software and various protocols through which the call is smoothly communicated.

VOIP provides detailed information on VOIP, VOIP Providers, VOIP Phone System, VOIP Solutions and more. VOIP is affiliated with Wireless IP Phones.

The Lowdown On Vonage

Writen by Amy Quinn

Many internet users have recognized that using the Net for voice communication is far cheaper than using the conventional telephone. Enter VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, which is used to carry voice signals over the IP network. Vonage is one of the several players in the category. Sprint, Verizon, BroadVoice and AOL are some of the other names synonymous with VoIP.

Vonage has carved out a niche for itself. It is known as "The Broadband Phone Company" that is "Leading the Internet Phone Revolution". It prides itself in providing an all-inclusive phone service. The subscriber can make local and long distance calls anywhere in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico for one low price. Add to this that calls to some select European countries come free with its unlimited plans. Its aggressive consumer marketing in the US, Canada, UK and other countries globally has almost single handedly ushered in the era of VoBB (Voice over Broad Band) services.

As a VoBB service provider it gives its subscribers a whole lot of 'must-haves' and 'add-ons'. Features like Keep Your Phone Number, Live Customer Support, Money-Back Guarantee, Great International Rates, Bandwidth Saver, Billing Information, etc. provide ease of use as well as economy to the user. Frequent referrals to the service make the service more economical for a user. Add-ons like adding multiple phone numbers to the user's Vonage account, providing virtual phone numbers as secondary numbers, providing own toll free number and dedicated fax line service provide additional advantage to a frequent traveler. These facilities come with a small individual price tag but help the user to customize his service to suit his or her needs.

Vonage has an unlimited plan priced at $24.99. Up till now it was quite an unbeaten price. Recently another VoIP service provider, Verizon, had priced its unlimited plan a wee bit lower at $24.95. But most current subscribers to Vonage services are still content with the comprehensive package that the company has to offer. Basic 500 priced at $14.99, Small business unlimited at $49.99 and Small Business Basic at $39.99 are some of the other popular options that a user gets to choose from.

There are a few un-met expectations from the service, however. Though the 'Keep your phone number' feature is known to work well, some users have in the recent past complained about change of number problems. Apart from this some users feel that the service provider should add 'anonymous call rejection' and 'do not disturb features' as part of the service. Another common complaint is that though Vonage replies quite consistently via email, when the caller tries to access the customer care by phone he may have to be on hold for a longer duration than what may be generally acceptable. And lastly, some subscribers have experienced setup problems. But overall the general sentiment is that once Vonage is installed properly, it works well and saves money!

Amy Quinn recommends that you visit http://www.vonage-forum.com for more information on Vonage.

Cable Company Voip Information

Writen by Jason Christensen

Recently many internet service providers such as Comcast and WOW have started offering VoIP service as a package price plan when you purchase their cable. If you are already paying for Cable TV and High Speed Internet from the cable company don't be tricked into adding VoIP from them also. Cable and traditional phone companies are realizing that VoIP is here to stay and want to join in.

Many people see the initial savings over traditional phone service and think they are getting a good deal, however many times they are paying almost double for VoIP just to have a single bill for all three services.

Comcast charges $39.95 a month for their unlimited VoIP service compared to $16.58 for VoIP service through SunRocket if you pay yearly. Probably the most well known and best VoIP service provider available is Vonage and they charge $24.99 for unlimited calling. WOW charges about $35.00 a month depending on the package you purchase. As you can see using the cable companies for your VoIP needs can cost you $23.00 more a month just to keep your Cable, Internet, and Phone on one bill. The VoIP service that the cable companies are offering is usually no better than most VoIP providers out there regardless of what the telemarketer tells you.

Cable Company VoIP Provider Information:

• Comcast Digital Voice: Comcast offers an unlimited US & Canada calling package for $39.95 a month when you purchase their high speed internet service. If you would like to keep your existing internet service from a competitor then the price jumps to $54.95. The main selling point for Comcast is the promise of calls traveling across proprietary Comcast lines, which allows for higher quality and reliability than calls from upstarts that travel exclusively across the public Internet. Comcast quality and reliability have yet to be proven compared to other competitive VoIP providers.

• Wide Open West (WOW): WOW offers two choices, the WOW phone Basic and Advanced plans. The basic service offer unlimited calling in the US with Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, 3Way Calling, and Call Return(*69). The Advanced plan offers the same features as the basic plan and Caller ID, Repeat Dial, Selective Call Forwarding, and Voice Mail. The Basic plan costs around $25.00 a month when you purchase their high speed internet service. The Advanced plan costs around $30.00 a month when you purchase their high speed internet service. WOW does not offer VoIP unless you purchase internet service from them.

• Bright HouseNetworks: Bright house offers what they call Digital Phone for their VoIP plan. The plan offers unlimited calling in the US with Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, 3Way Calling, and Call Return(*69), Caller ID, Repeat Dial, and Selective Call Forwarding. The plan costs $39.99 a month when you purchase their high speed internet service or $49.99 if you use your existing internet service provider.

• Time Warner: Time Warner offers what they call Digital Phone for their VoIP plan. The plan offers unlimited calling in the US with Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, 3Way Calling, and Call Return(*69), Caller ID, Repeat Dial, and Selective Call Forwarding plus a few more. The plan costs $39.99 a month when you purchase their high speed internet service.

This is just a sample of Cable Companies that are starting to provide VoIP. To find out more you can search for additional providers online or visit our website.

Article may be reprinted without permission with original content, including signature and links.

For more information regarding VoIP visit our site at Michigan VoIP

Jason Christensen is the creator and editor of Michigan-VoIP-Info.com Visit our site for additional VoIP information Michigan VoIP

Voip Is Gaining Popularity In Asia

Writen by San Singhania

Internet telephony is now a billions business in Asia and is expected to grow by at least 20 per cent annually. Enterprises who initially wary of VoIP due to reliability and investment seems to have finally overcome their initial resistance. Major countries in Asia such as China, Japan, India and Singapore have taken significant steps for VoIP implementation for enterprises.

Why VoIP is on the Rise?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection. It converts the voice signals into data for transmission over an IP network, and then reconverts the data back to voice signals.

There are several factors tip in the scales in favor of IP telephony. But the primary one is the trend towards a consolidated data and voice infrastructure as organizations look to reduce operational costs.

Also, an increasing need to replace traditional private branch exchange (PBX) systems has pushed businesses to look at alternatives like VoIP. With the current distributed IP phone solution, enterprises do not have to fuss over system breakdowns that once plagued the old PBX.

The implementation of VoIP system allows voice calls to be carried over the company's existing data network. The IP phone system has helped to reduce voice traffic and ease the maintenance.

The rise of VoIP among enterprises also because of the high growth of broadband connections to the home, improvements in quality of service, and hook-ups that allow VoIP calls over ordinary telephone handsets rather than clunky PC microphone systems.

VoIP services for now typically promise a significant cost savings, virtually wiping out charges for long distance and international calls. In addition, connecting phone calls over the Internet could eventually open the door to advanced communications services that tie voice together with e-mail, instant messaging and video conferencing.

Edgar Lee is a VoIP consultant at Lantone Communications, VoIP division. A Singapore company that has extensice experiences in cutting-edge VoIP solutions, Lantone Communications is your trusted partner when your organization needs a specialized VoIP Provider in Singapore.

How Does Voip Really Work

Writen by Michael Lemm

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. By using a VoIP phone and VoIP technology you can effectively use the internet to make phone calls. VoIP does this by placing the voice calls on network which encrypts the voice in data packets at one end and encrypts it in voice calls at the other end. In VoIP, encryption and decryption is from a analog signal (i.e. your voice call) into digital signal (data packets) and again into the analog signal.

You can make VOIP calls by a regular phone with VOIP adapter or even from your computer using a simple microphone. VoIP applications can generally be used with a simple microphone and computer speakers, but IP telephones or VoIP boxes can also be used, providing an experience identical to normal telephoning. Many VOIP manufacturers are designing phones which are specially meant to work with this technology, called SIP phone, and now extensively used by growing VoIP users.

In the past year, the quality and reliability of VoIP technology has improved to the point that vast numbers of users have abandoned their standard telephone contracts entirely, in favor of VoIP. Local as well as long distance calling is available for VoIP. Rates and plans can vary from one VoIP service provider to another VoIP service provider.

Advantages of using VOIP

Using VOIP you can effectively cut down your phone bills, since you just pay to your regular internet connection and small fees to your VOIP service provider. Setting up conference calls with VOIP is very easy.

You can even set up your own VoIP network and don't need any special equipment like PBX etc. You can call to any local telephone, mobile, long distance number or any international number through VoIP phones. More importantly, the person you are calling by using VoIP technology does not need any special equipment; just a regular telephone.

Many additional features like call forwarding, call tracing, reminders, caller ID are readily available in VoIP Phones. You can even assign a local telephone number to your VOIP phone set, and just need a fast internet connection to use your VOIP service anywhere in the world.

VoIP Dilemma

VoIP applications and services require data transfer in real time. During a call an interactive data voice exchange takes place. Unfortunately, TCP/IP is not well suited for this purpose. Sometimes you have to wait for a few seconds, to hear the other side answering. But with recent developments streaming the flow of voice signals has improved. PC-to-PC and PC-to-phone calling quality is still not as sharp as regular PSTN calls. However, with SIP phones and a reliable high speed internet connection there is little or no difference....and sometimes the quality is even better.

SIP Phones

SIP Phones are the phones which are specifically designed to work as VOIP phones. SIP phone can be considered as a network endpoint routing voice via its IP address. This allows a DID (direct inward dialing) number to move with a user. With SIP phones you can use advanced features like voice mail to email etc. Using a SIP phone also closely resembles a regular analog phone in look, feel, function, and ease of use.

FCC and VoIP

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates VOIP Services in the USA. They are in charge to create and promote telecommnuication regulations....such as VOIP services....to benefit consumers. In November, 2004 FCC ruled that individual States do not have the jurisdiction to impose taxes on VoIP services, which made the cost of VOIP services even more attractive in relation to standard PSTN phone services.

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including Business-VoIP-Solution and DS3-Bandwidth.com. Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, resources, and insights.