Voip What Is It And Why Do I Need It

Writen by Kevin Erickson

In the dynamically changing world of technology, VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is one of the latest and potentially greatest wonders ever created by the human mind. Watch a techie show, read a techie magazine or talk to any cyber dude and most will acknowledge that VoIP is one of the coolest advancements they've ever been blessed to experience.

On the other hand, for the vast majority who are not techie-nerds and who are looking for a non-techie to English translation of what VoIP has done to induce such high praises, then sit back, relax and read a bit more. In a nutshell, VoIP allows you to make phone calls over the internet, using your computer, to pretty much anywhere on the planet. The VoIP acronym is simply a fancy, smancy technical term for what could just as easily be called an Internet phone.

The miracle of VoIP can be explained in a simple process. The analog voice signals, which are the technical term for the exchange of hot air you have with friends and family while talking for hours on the phone... Sorry, I couldn't resist a bit of humor as I drifted back to days gone by and my youth. Ok, back to business.

VoIP converts the analog voice signals into digital data packets, which allows those packets of data to be transferred via cable lines (the internet) and then they are reconverted into analog voice signals at the other end so that once again, you can understand what is being said. Thanks to internet protocol, VoIP supports real time and two way transmission of conversations.

Sounds Good But How Do I Get Started With VoIP?

First, you have to know what type of internet service you have from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). The reason you need to know the type of service you have is because currently, VoIP works best with a cable or DSL internet connection because they are faster… as in they can download more bits of information (data packets) per second and this allows better sound quality on your internet calls.

Although VoIP services are available for other types of ISP connections like dial up, prepaid and satellite... the technology with VoIP has yet to progress to the point where you will consistently experience crystal clear sound over slower internet connections. However, if you currently live in an area that hasn't been wired for broadband, you shouldn't have to wait too long for the technology to progress to where you can enjoy a quality conversation over a slower internet type connection. However, for the time-being, quality is still a bit patchy without a high speed connection.

How Much is This Internet Telephony, VoIP Thingy Going to Cost Me?

Cost is one of best things about VoIP because VoIP services cost less than residential phone service and much, much less than most monthly cell phone plans. And if your DSL or broadband internet company just happens to be one of companies that currently offers VoIP services, then so much the better because that usually translates into even lower rates than if you used an independent or outside company for your VoIP phone service.

How Reliable Is VoIP?

Because transmission is being done over the Internet, the voice quality is largely dependent on your internet connection speed. And… at this moment in time, regardless of your ISP or connection speed the voice quality still hasn't reached that of normal land based or mobile phones. Plus, although rare, if your internet connection goes down you wouldn't be able to make or receive phone calls and VoIP is still more vulnerable to dropped calls due to a lack of signal strength.

Although VoIP still has a few drawbacks, once you try it you'll quickly realize that they aren't the type of problems that will stop you from wanting to use it… especially when you get your bill each month because with VoIP the savings can be dramatic if you spend a bunch of time on the phone.

How Secure Is VoIP?

Because transmission is in an environment where the dreaded "hacker" reigns supreme this concern is an obvious and legitimate one. Let's face it... although not perfectly secure it's no less secure than sending emails and billions and billions of those are sent each day. And frankly, if you're concerned about others listening in on your phone calls you should toss your cell phone because picking up those signals by the "unscrupulous" is much easier than sabotaging your VoIP phone calls.

If you are overly concerned with security due to the fact that VoIP is a relatively a new technology and that there still exists; although remote, a possibility that those cyber technicians will hijack your calls then you'll just have to wait until you feel these issues are solved before you give VoIP a test drive.

Can You Keep Your Number?

Yes and No! In most instances you will be able to keep your current phone number but just to be safe you should ask this question before signing up for VoIP service. And frankly, in some cases you may be required to change numbers. Oh well… nothings perfect.

Kevin Erickson is a contributing writer to: VoIP | Wifi Hotspots | Trade Show

Voice Over Internet Protocal Voip For Business

Writen by Andrew Taub

VoIP consists of 2 major technologies....

Making Calls Over the Internet--Residential

This is the most common use of VoIP. It is also called VoIP lines or trunks. If you have a high speed internet connection, like cable modem, DSL, or T1, you can use your high speed connection to make phone calls on the internet. There are many companies like Vonage, Lingo, and VoiceWing (Verizon) that offer VoIP lines. Cable companies also offer VoIP lines, but only if you have their cable modem service. So, to boil it down, instead of getting your dial tone from Verizon over the traditional phone network, you get your dial done from your internet company.

Any phone system made (even an old one) can take advantage of VoIP lines. You do not need an IP based (IP PBX) or even IP compatible phone system. This is one of the biggest misconcetions about VoIP.

The advantage of VoIP lines are:

Lower Bills. Usually you pay a flat monthly rate and all your calls in the USA and Canada are free You can take your number with you. If you move around the corner or across the country with VoIP you can keep your existing phone number even if you move to a different area code.

Multiple area codes. You can get phone numbers from different area codes or even overseas numbers.

Portability. You can move the VoIP router with you and take your service easily with you. You can even set it up to use your laptop with a virtual soft-phone and a WiFi connections to make calls from anywhere you can get high speed internet access.

Features. VoIP lines come with Caller ID, Call Forwarding, and lots of other great features. The problems with VoIP lines are:

Quality is not as good as traditional phone service, but it's close and getting better all the time. Set up can be very challenging, especially if you are planning on using your own router.

Depending on how fast your internet connection is, it may be possible to make several calls at the same time over the internet. However, the more calls you make at once the slower your internet connection will be and the poorer the sound quality of your calls will be.

Faxes, modem, and alarm systems don't work well over VoIP lines. Sometimes they won't work at all. If you need a lot of lines, you may need more then one high speed connection, so the cost of the high speed internet connection may outweigh the savings.

There are some minor technical issue using VoIP lines and Automated Attendants and Voice Mail systems. If your internet access goes down, all your phone lines go down too.

VoIP lines normally don't work if the power does out, but you can set up back up batteries.

Right now the Government does not tax VoIP service. If that changes VoIP may not be price effective anymore. Making Calls Over the Internet--Business

Business class VoIP works in much the same way as for residential VoIP with one major difference. With business class VoIP a T1 is usually delivered to your office that provides both VoIP voice lines and Internet service. This means that your VoIP provider and your ISP are the same company This distinction is very important once you need more then 3 or 4 lines. Since your Internet connection is coming from the VoIP phone company problems such as latency, jitter, and static are greatly reduced.

Basically, your call has to travel a shorter distance. With residential, your call goes from Verizon DSL or Comcast Cable, to Vonage, to the person your calling. That's 3 steps or hops and problems can occur anywhere along with way. With business class VoIP, the 1st 2 hops are the same provider so things work better and you can get more calls on the same Internet connection.

Business class VoIP also has the advantage of being dynamically allocated. This means that when fewer people are on the phones, the Internet speed is faster. Voice always gets priority, so phone lines are always available. Packages are available from 5 to 105 lines or more and may come with unlimited calling or a large allotment of included minutes.

Business service is far more important then residential, so it's vital that you choose the right carrier. There are several major carriers like Verizon and Sprint and many smaller national carrier that you've probably never heard of. There are even more regional carriers that only service a small area and even more resellers that just package someone else's service. Let the experts at Teleco http://www.teleco4.com help you navigate through the maze of carriers and offers.

Connection Remote Workers or Remote Offices....Voice over IP Stations.

This is the 2nd major use of VoIP. You can "connect" to your office phone system from anywhere there is a high speed internet connection. Using a special VoIP telephone or a Laptop "soft phone" you can work from home or a hotel and it's just like being in your office. You have access to all your phone system features including the intercom, paging, all outside lines, voice mail, and even your extension can ring on your VoIP phone. Best of all, you don't lose the use of your computer. 1 high speed internet connection can run your VoIP phone and your PC at the same time.

With this same technology, you can link multiple office together into one seamless phone system. You can even share lines or the one voice mail system. You can even run your entire phone system over your office LAN or WAN without separate voice wiring (often called Pure IP or IP Based telephone systems), though that is very expensive and complicated and is best suited for very large companies with full time IT staffs.

Voice over IP is very exciting and more and more people are using it everyday. Let the experts at Teleco http://www.teleco4.com help you understand if VoIP is right for you. Voice over IP is available on both the NEC IPK and Toshiba CTX digital telephone systems.

Andrew Taub
10+ Years in Sales, Service, and Technical Programming of PBX and Key Business Telephone Systems

Broadband Telephony Price War

Writen by Alen Wilson

The Internet gives you an easy access to information and services and it is becoming the wave of the future. With the hype of broadband enabled services, competition is increasing and prices are dropping. Broadband has opened a whole new world of creative opportunities for individuals and businesses alike and has made ordinary Internet browsing extraordinary. With amazing speeds and reliable connections, all Internet activities are best performed with a dependable speedy connection. Gone are the days of expensive phone calls and slow speed Internet access. Today, broadband allows you to access Internet at lightening speed from home or anywhere at the most affordable prices.

Looking from the consumer's point of view, it's good news for them, as they would obviously like to pay less for a service. People are becoming aware of broadband services available for low prices and so they are switching from dial-up to broadband. Apart from the prices, a number of factors like faster downloads, the introduction of Voice of Internet Protocol (VoIP), offering customers free, or extraordinarily cheap, telephone calls; and the enormous success of online computer games has led to the switch over from dialup to broadband.

It is expected that the prices will continue to fall and customers will continue to get more for their money. Customers are always looking for the providers offering less price and more quality and are willing to switch their existing service provider if he doesn't fit their needs. But the biggest problem for the customers wanting to take advantage of lower rates by switching their provider is paying a service charge to the provider for installing a modem.

With the competition among Internet providers becoming more severe every day, consumers are getting great choice. A number of providers are willing to cut down their prices to match their competitor and get business. Changes and technological advances in the world of broadband are happening all the time. The price wars have finally begun with the competition soaring among high-speed Internet providers. Cable companies are also competing with the broadband providers in a bid to gain their position in the market by slashing prices and increasing access speeds.

Alen

UK mobile phone directory

How Voip Phones Work

Writen by Punks Johnston

Long distance phone calls will never be the same again thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The basic premise for this technology is to convert analog audio signals into digital data for transmission over the Internet, a technique which allows you to make your phone calls over the internet.

The way VoIP works is pretty straight forward. Whereas the traditional circuit switched technology reserves a dedicated path from a caller to the receiver for the entire duration of the conversation, VoIP converts the voices into data for transmission over data networks. At the receiving end, the data is once again converted back into audio.

The implication of this process is that a regular Internet connection is all one needs to make absolutely free phone calls. In using free VoIP software for Internet phone calls, the role of the telephone company and consequently its charges are completely eliminated.

This path breaking VoIP technology is poised to redefine the very method the world's phone systems use. Major players in the VoIP world, like Vonage, are already making their presence felt having been on a steady growth for some time. Leading traditional carriers like AT&T are already in the process of incorporating this revolutionary new technology in markets across the US. Simultaneously, regulatory agencies including the FCC are taking a long hard look at VoIP to harness the technology into a more secure format.

Among the multiple advantages attributed to VoIP technology, include the use of the same lines for both data and voice transmissions. With one network, both installation and maintenance expenses are minimized. Compression technology makes it possible for multiple calls, as many as eight, on the same lines as opposed to the circuit-switch systems. Neither is there any compromise on sound clarity.

With VoIP it is also possible for various devices to be inter-linked, thereby enabling added incentives like PC-Telephony. Integrating the phone system to a customer database provides ideal support for customer relationship management or CRM.

Phone calls using VoIP are not subject to toll charges. When both sides have high-speed Internet access and VoIP phones, distance charges don't apply no matter how long the call duration or distance may be. The possibilities in terms of businesses and consumers to save on costs are therefore staggering. What's more VoIP can also be utilized in setting up an independent private interoffice networks for main to satellite office communications.

Punks Johnston likes writing about VoIP phones. See http://www.voipphonereviews.net for more information.

Free Ip Telephony

Writen by Richard Romando

Free IP telephone services are available to make national and international phone calls by using a computer and a mouse. To get these free services, you need a computer with an Internet connection using WiFi, broadband or a dial-up network supported by T-I, DSL, Fiber, Wireless, ATM, Cable or Frame Relay. You also need a home to share the Internet connection with multiple computers, microphones and headsets (for audio connectivity) and software to turn the computer into a telephone.

One has to initially, activate a network account to get a telephone number through which calls can be made. Calls can be made to any telephone, mobile or landline. Free IP telephony services are offered for PC-to-PC phone calls. By paying a nominal registration fee, one can use the same services to call out on mobile or landline telephone.

Free IP Telephony services include voice mail, caller ID, Internet billing, video phone, instant messaging, call forwarding, call waiting, fax to email connections, call to PSTN numbers, 3-way calling or teleconferencing and call blasting. Free service providers offer instruments such as adapters; stand alone videophones at discounted prices when a customer registers on their websites.

Most of the sites use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and high-speed Internet connections. The other services available are SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) communication systems that use the existing PBX connections in an organization to contact co-workers in remote locations. SIP provides mobility and better interconnection services within organizations.

Internet telephony software essentially provides free telephone calls, however does not offer the same quality of telephone services as PSTN network has.

IP Telephony provides detailed information on IP Telephony, IP Telephony Systems, IP Telephony Solutions, Free IP Telephony and more. IP Telephony is affiliated with Free Internet Telephony.

Voip Vulnerabilities Still Apparent

Writen by Tim ONeill

With the use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) by all reports rapidly expanding, several recent cases have exposed serious vulnerabilities with the service. However fraud is an everyday occurrence so I for one wouldn't base my decision solely on these events.

As per previous articles I have written and various on my "About VoIP Information" website, security vulnerabilities for VoIP do exist and have been and continue to be seriously examined and worked through by industry. However two recent cases act as a reminder that all holes have not been closed.

In Australia it has been reported that a very public VoIP provider Engin had it's Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software cracked by a hacker who publicly exposed how to obtain details of other customer's orders in a post on the broadband site Whirlpool. Engin reportedly resolved the problem the next morning before any advantage was gained.

Engin appeared very honest and forthright admitting the problem and fixes that would be put in place with blame attributed to a third party programming consultancy responsible for programming of the CRM. Despite credit card details apparently not recorded in the area that became accessible, it does highlight the ease at which confidential personal information can be accessed, not something that is usually considered a security problem related to VoIP.

In the very public case two arrests have been made in early June for breaking into a New York companies network and spoofing VoIP traffic to its service provider. Wholesale phone connections were then offered at discount rates in a pseudo-service provider manner with a resultant 100% profit margin for the fraudsters.

TMCnet Executive Editor Robert Lui reported that one security expert advised the problem could have been easily adverted. It is suggested that multiple security products are required for securing VoIP networks which to some degree is in line with the layered or defence in depth security principle ie more layers of security making it more difficult to get through.

Despite these two reported cases and significant discussion and reporting about a diverse range of security considerations and concerns, it must be remembered that fraud is part of everyday life and regardless of how many checks and balances are put in place, a determined criminal will eventually be successful. Such is the case with credit cards for example, passports and other identification documents. The message in my view to take away is review the service providers performance and virtually by the numbers game, assuming all advisable security precautions are adhered to, it would be unlucky to be a victim of hacking.

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

Voip Telephony Grows With Telecommunications Boom

Writen by Mark Walters

The Voip telephony and the international telecommunications market is not only healthy, it is robust! The market is expected to continue its double-digit growth and reach over $2 trillion by 2008.

Spending on telecommunications equipment and services in Canada, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia/Pacific will grow at a rate of 10.6% say the experts. What's behind this growth in telecommunications? Prosperity! With improving economic conditions throughout the world there is increasing demand for Voip, mobile devices and wireless telecommunication services.

The number of subscribers to wireless telephone services is growing faster than the number of landlines in all regions. 1.9 billion wireless subscribers are expected by 2008 and they will outnumber landline subscribers by 69.1%.

The accessibility of high-speed broadband will drive equipment revenue over the next few years. This will give a boost to Internet telephony service and that growth will continue as broadband access revenue triples in future years.

As the move to wireless, voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and cable telephony continues, the landline market will increase from $391 billion in 2004 to $422 billion in 2008.

Internationally Europe is expected to be the largest region in support services spending, reaching $354 billion by 2008 as the demand for equipment increases there will be increased demand for services to support that equipment.

In the United States the broadband market is expected to reach an estimated 56.9 million subscribers by 2008. That up from 32.5 million subscribers in 2004. The broadband market has had a huge move since 2001, when there were only 5.1 million subscribers.

Broadband's faster speeds are behind the increasing demand for cable modem and DSL providers. Telephone companies are offering more bundled DSL services and cable operators are losing subscribers to direct broadcast satellite. The gap between the number cable and DSL subscribers is narrowing and will continue to decrease.

In addition, there is plenty going on with wireless communications. The U.S. wireless market includes transport services, handsets, capital expenditures and infrastructure equipment including Wi-Fi equipment plus the emerging market for wireless broadband access. The future of VoIP technology and wireless VoIP promises to be one of the most exciting developments in telecommunications.

Not counting PC-to-PC services, the number of residential VoIP customers more than tripled to 4.2 million in 2005. That number is expected to grow by a compound annual rate of over 43% in the next few years. That will result in about 18 million VoIP users.

Growth in the residential VoIP market is being driven by a number of factors. First and foremost is that VoIP telephony provides consumers with inexpensive voice communications. VoIP escapes the burden of the many regulations and taxes governments have imposed on traditional telephone services. So far that has allowed the VoIP service providers to beat the prices charged for wired telephone services. The burst of growth in broadband subscribership is a good sign for VoIP, because it works best over a broadband connection,

In the United States and around the world, people are talking and they want to do that with speed and economy. VoIP phone services are prepared to meet that need.

If you have not yet made the switch to VoIP telephone service author Mark Walters offers a free introduction called Five Reasons for VoIP

Why Is Voip Good For Small Business

Writen by Michael Lemm

The most immediate benefit of VoIP for most businesses is savings on long distance charges. Companies equipped for VoIP can place long-distance calls over the Internet rather than the PSTN and avoid paying long distance charges. Since most companies already pay for broadband Internet connections, the only additional requirement is the equipment that connects telephones to the IP network.

The so called "VoIP revolution" in telecommunications can benefit many consumers. The group who stands to gain the most....if they're smart...are small businesses.

In addition to the cost savings, bringing voice and data together on one network opens the door to new services. Advanced conferencing, unified e-mail and voicemail messaging and dialing calls by selecting from a computer contact list are just a few of the new service possibilities.

The benefits of VoIP can go beyond free long distance calling and new services. Because VoIP integrates voice calling with the IP network, small businesses of the future will only need one network to operate, rather than separate telephone and computer networks. A single integrated network is cheaper to install and maintain, and there would only be one network service bill to pay. We recommend Packet8 service for small businesses of today.....and tomorrow.

But fully converged networks are a long way off for most small companies. Today, traditional PSTN telephony is still crucial for the vast majority of small businesses. Since most of the telephone calls for the majority of small businesses come from local callers using the traditional telephone network, small businesses need to maintain their traditional PSTN links. For those small business where VoIP doesn't make sense yet we recommend using a "Best Rate Calculator" to optimize your PSTN usage and cost effectiveness.

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

Looking For A Reason To Swap Your Old Pbx For A Voip Hosted Pbx How About Eight Great Reasons

Writen by Bill Casey

1.Lower CAPEX Costs: Buying a traditional phone system is like buying a new car, it significantly depreciates the day you place it in service. Plus, you own a piece of equipment that you'll have to one day replace. You can put that money to better use by spending less up-front by intstalling a VoIP Hosted PBX system.

2.A VoIP Hosted PBX is Dynamically Scalable: Up-size and Down-size on the fly. VoIP Hosted PBX Service lets you buy the exact number of users you need right now - later you can add users when you actually need them. This helps preserve capital in comparison to guessing what size PBX system you need to buy today to support the number of users you think you'll have in 3 - 5 years.

3.A VoIP PBX Significantly Reduces Depreciation Losses: Traditional PBX systems depreciate almost 70% the day you take them out of their box. With a VoIP Hosted phone service, you won't have to worry about depreciation since you're not purchasing equipment.

4.A VoIp Hosted PBX is Cheaper, Easier to Maintain and Update: Moves, Add's and Changes no longer require on-site changes to your phone system. Most VoIP Hosted PBXs can be remotely configured by the vendor, thus the flexibility to add, change, delete or move users within hours. Your expenses will be reduced by eliminating costly monthly maintenance contracts or the high labor cost required to have a tech onsite for every change you need.

5.A VoIP Hosted PBX Uses Non-Proprietary Components: When you buy a traditional PBX phone system, you're locking your company into a long term commitment to a proprietary architecture that may or may not keep pace with technological changes. Bottom line, you are betting your company's future that the proprietary technology will remain compatible with evolving industry standards.

In the future, there's a good chance with a traditional PBX you'll be at the manufacturer's mercy for repair and expansion since only their parts will work with your purchase. Make sure your VoIP Hosted PBX system works with multiple phone manufacturers. So if you decide to move to a different system, a forklift upgrade won't be necessary.

6.A VoIP System Eliminates Technology Obsolescence: Since you're not purchasing a phone system, you don't have to worry about the equipment becoming obsolete. Updates and new features are automatically available to you with REIGN-FREE Hosted PBX service.

7.Disaster Recovery/ Emergency Protection: A hosted PBX product will protect your company's calling infrastructure the same way you protect your website and email - with specialized, secure off-site hosting. Make sure if you are considering a VoIP hosted PBX that the vendor provide security and redundancy so you don't have to worry about the physical requirements and support of your phone system.

8.Improved Features for Improved Productivity: Most enterprise VoIP Hosted Voice service providers include advanced calling features that are not available with traditional phone systems. Features that will improve the way you control your calling, like Visual Voicemail, Unique DID's, Find-Me/Follow-Me, Click-to-Call and Outlook Integration.

Bill Casey is the Vice President of Marketing for Reignmaker Communications, Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Reignmaker offers REIGN-FREE Hosted PBX service. Call 877-VOIP.4U2. http://www.reignmaker.net

Voip Software

Writen by Steve Valentino

Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, architecture consists of end-user devices, gateways, gatekeepers and the IP network. The software for VoIP is a collection of programs, applications and protocols to manage the architecture. The significance of VoIP software is underlined by the increasing demand for higher quality of service from consumers. Effective software programming translates into effective management of calls—in terms of routing of the calls through the least congested paths—and clarity of voice.

VoIP software can be classified according to the different functionalities in the VoIP network. These functionalities include the management of user interfaces, call processing, network management and billing. User interface software handles the interface to the user of IP telephone. The important features of the user interface include algorithms to compress voice data, echo cancellation and encryption.

Call processing servers are run by software to map the destination of the call. The software is a database program called soft switch. The software translates the phone number into a unique IP address after checking the validity of the number. It connects the two devices on both ends, after alerting the called party of the incoming call through a ring.

Call administration software, called consoles, are applications that manage the state of the calls and the distribution. This software provides bandwidth management. Some of the standard protocols are H.323 session initiation protocol. In order to maintain the quality of service, real time protocol (RTP) is employed. The software also manages the networks.

Some of the customer-oriented services managed by software are billing services. This includes pre- and post-paid services. Some provide voicemail services that synthesize voice for mails. IP soft phones are managed by software that lets the user directly connect with the VoIP provider through a computer. Skype software is rapidly capturing the market with millions of phone minutes.

Another area where software provides services is in the call-monitoring systems for call offices to manage the calls and Computer telephony Integration for businesses.

Software development is accelerated by the need to solve various issues such as loss of packets and sequencing of packets.

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

Tell Your Phone Company To Voip Off

Writen by Michael Brito

I don't know about you, but I am sick and tired of being ripped off by my local phone company. For years, I have been held captive by this monopolizing regime with no hope of moving on to something better. It's been a financial struggle that has caused me to seek counseling numerous times throughout the years. Why? Because my phone company charges me for everything: I want to add voicemail, they charge me. I call to change my number because I am getting crank calls, they charge me. I want to add call waiting, they charge me. I want to disconnect, they charge me. I'm surprised they don't charge me when I call into a customer support.

So the question remains. Is there an affordable alternative to local phone service? The answer is yes, and it's called VoIP, short for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is an emerging technology that allows telephone calls to be transported over an existing Internet connection.

Here is how it works.

First of all, you absolutely have to have a high speed Internet connection, either DSL or Cable. Then you have to subscribe to a monthly service plan offered by a VoIP service provider. Most plans range from $20 and $30 per month, plus applicable taxes and fees.

Once you sign up for a plan, most VoIP service providers will send you a phone adapter. This is a little black box that resembles a modem. There are several connections in the back of the phone adapter. One is for your existing Internet connection, using an Ethernet cable. Another connection is for the power supply. There should also be a connection for a phone line. That's right. Whatever phone you have at home (unless it's a rotary phone) will work. Simply plug it into the phone adapter, wait a few seconds and you should have dial tone. Hopefully, whatever VoIP service provider you sign up with will also send installation instructions on how to set up your phone service. It's really easy and takes about five minutes or less to get set up.

Why Choose VoIP?

This is simple question to answer. Say goodbye to the counseling bills you have accumulated over the years because you were inches away from bankruptcy. Say goodbye to all the additional charges for the features that should have already been included in your service plan. With VoIP, not only do you pay a low monthly fee for unlimited calls to the U.S. and Canada, but you also get all the features included like: voicemail, call waiting, caller ID, and three-way calling. Better yet, you get additional features that the traditional phone companies cannot even offer like voicemail to email (when someone leaves you a voicemail, the system will send you an email with an audio attachment so you can listen to the message from any computer), follow me – find me, call forwarding and the ability to choose your area code. This means that you can live in New York and have a California phone number.

What to look for in a VoIP service provider.

First and foremost, ensure that the company offers true 911 emergency calling (E911). This is vital since the FCC might shut them down if they don't. Also, find out if they have a trial period. This is always good practice because if you don't like their VoIP service, you can always cancel without penalty. Other things to keep in mind are the following:

1. Are they a stable company?  2. How long have they been in business?  3. How many customers do they have?  4. What is their customer service like?

You can find out most of these questions by doing some preliminary research in any VoIP forums or blogs.

Hurry up and switch to VoIP!

So what are you waiting for? Make the switch to VoIP so you can start saving on your monthly phone bill and finally tell your phone company to VoIP Off!

Click here for more in-depth information about voip products and services or visit the voip blog to post your comments and suggestions. Michael Brito is an internet marketing consultant and freelance writer for a variety of consumer related products.

Voip Sometimes Not An Easy Choice

Writen by Michael Weaver

Previously I wrote that VoIP was a good choice. If naked DSL or DSL without phone service is not an option for you, then VoIP can still be a good choice for your second or even third phone line. It sure comes in handy for your teenage children not to mention a home office. I recently sold service to a gentleman who wanted VoIP specifically for the ability to have a virtual number. His daughter recently went off to college in another state. He purchased VoIP service and signed up for a virtual number. He got a virtual number in the same area code that his daughter was in. This allows his daughter to call him at local charges vs. the long distance charges she would normally have to pay. Kudos' to him for making his decision. Just another great benefit VoIP has to offer.

This weekend I was speaking with a friend of mine who recently purchased a home computer. He knew about my business and wanted to know his options for internet access. He also knows that I'm not just a big fan of VoIP but that I myself use it. His primary objective was internet access, secondary objective was VoIP. Here's where the choices, for him, weren't so straightforward.

First off, his current phone provider is the local cable company. He doesn't use cable TV, rather he uses satellite TV. This current scenario meets his needs. He's a huge sports fan and not about to give up his satellite TV because of the sports packages. Do you know anyone else in this type of situation? I told him that 'normal' DSL is out of the question. Our local RBOC won't allow DSL access without phone service. What about naked DSL? Yes, my company has recently signed up a couple providers offering naked DSL, but the price is a bit higher. About the same as cable internet access would cost when you don't have cable TV service. In both cases, naked DSL and cable access, the monthly fee was more than he's willing to pay.

Well then, that was our dilemma. His existing setup won't allow for either DSL or Cable without him spending more than he wants per month. A switch to cable TV service with cable broadband access won't work for him either. He just doesn't want to give up the satellite TV sports package. So what to do?

His options, as it were, are limited. I asked about his phone habits. How many local and long distance minutes do him and his family use? His child is fairly young and his wife's family lives in the area, so long distance minutes don't come into the picture. That leaves local calling. I have a bundled service I could offer him, but guess what, YEP, the RBOC 'will' allow a competitor to offer local service BUT the RBOC will 'not' allow that competitor to offer DSL.

He was trying to avoid the local RBOC, which is why he switched to cable phone service a few years back. Now, although he does have choices, the only thing to meet his budget is to cancel cable phone service and go back with the RBOC. Once phone service is active, then I can get him DSL access. DSL access from the local RBOC's is really dropping in price so he can get his first 6 months at a very reasonable price. Even after that 6-month period, the rate is reasonable as well. This solves his primary objective to get high-speed internet access but doesn't solve his secondary objective to get VoIP. He has no use for a second phone line so that's not an option.

Since the FCC has mandated that RBOC's need to offer naked DSL in roughly 3 years time, that's actually going to work for him. After that 3-year timeframe his young child will be in high school. He'll have more choices in just a few years. So, for this case, he doesn't get everything he wants at the budget he can afford. Rather he solves his primary objective of internet access for now and will go for VoIP once the prices of naked DSL come down.

Although this is doable, it's really a shame. It may be rare and it was the first time I've personally run across this type of situation. Phone from cable, TV from satellite works great for him, but because the phone companies and cable companies don't play well, he looses. I will show him how to make his long distance calls from his computer, but for VoIP as a primary phone service, he'll need to wait. Sometimes the decision to use VoIP is not such an easy choice. (For now)

Provided by the FullService Broadband Provider - http://www.fullservice-broadband-provider We provide unbiased and informative information on broadband and communication products and services. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. http://www.trighttech.com

Why Should You Switch From Traditional Phone To Voip

Writen by Alen Wilson

VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol is a new entrant to the telecommunications media. In VoIP your voice is transferred across a broadband Internet connection instead of the traditional public switch telephone network. You can say, o.k. fine, but why on earth should I switch from my present telephone system which is working so well to a relatively new technology called VoIP?

While considering VoIP for my use I too had the similar question. When I studied VoIP in detail, then only I could understand the technology as well as its advantages. VoIP is more efficient than your traditional phone system in many ways like:

Cost effectiveness: Low costs are the main reason for switching from traditional phone system to VoIP. You can avail all the features and benefits associated with VoIP at a low monthly fee. Depending upon your VoIP services provider you can also make free calls on some numbers. There are no associated fees for VoIP phone services as there are with traditional phone network.

Portability: VoIP has a portable system. You can use it permanently at your house, or you can travel along with it. All you need is access to a high speed broadband connection. You can choose any area code as per your convenience. This means you can choose an area code where you frequently make calls and the calls will be charged as local calls.

Flexibility: The VoIP system is highly flexible which means that it can adjust well to your personal needs. If you need more lines you can upgrade your system at low cost and vice versa.

Added Features: - Most of the added features on traditional phone networks are charged heavily. These features are charged as per your normal rates in VoIP systems. The included features can be call waiting, caller id, voicemail, call routing, tele-conferencing, and video-conferencing etc.

These are some of the reasons which compel you to switch to VoIP network from traditional phone line. So, if you want to talk freely with your kith and kin then switch to VoIP services and enjoy the pleasure of talking freely at limited costs.

VoIP Phone Service
Alen
voip-traffic.com

Voip Rings Can Only Get Better

Writen by Neil Day

VoIP offers many advantages to those who are brave enough to pull the plug. First, VoIP offers incredible savings for local, long distance, and international calls. It also offers great calling features for free that usually cost a fee when purchased with PSTN telephone services. Not only are people choosing to pull the plug from their telephones, but they are also embracing wireless technology as a whole.

With VoIP you have the option of selecting your phone number. In some cases, you can keep your current phone number. You will have to check with your VoIP provider and see what their options are. However, many service providers do provide the option of selecting your own area code. Some companies even have the choice of selecting area codes worldwide. This is a wonderful option for those who would like to choose an area code located where their family and friends are. For your unlimited calling plan, you can call your friends and family any time. But for those who are not on VoIP, they will thank you for giving them the option of calling you on local rates.

VoIP operates in different forms. For instance, you can use VoIP when you use an Instant Messaging program with voice on your computer. These are very popular and now Yahoo, AOL, MSN, ICQ, and even Google have VoIP Instant Messaging programs. The benefits of these programs are that they are free to download off of the Internet, and by using a microphone and your speakers; you can talk over the Internet with any of your buddies. As long as your friends and family members download the same program, you will be able to talk with them as long as you like, and absolutely free. You can talk to anyone, anywhere in the world with VoIP Instant Messengers.

VoIP has proved that it offers great audio quality and is a perfect choice for meeting both residential and business telephony needs. As technology continues to advance, we can know that as we conduct our transactions over VoIP, that the listener on the receiving end is hearing us with crystal clear audio clarity and that the future of VoIP will only have greater products readily available for its users.

Businesses also appreciate the ability to have integrated services. By combining audio, video, E-Mail, and web-based applications, employees can better meet customer service needs and productivity again increases.

As with the future of all VoIP products and services, the FCC and US government is racing to provide rules and regulations. It truly is a technology that is on the cutting edge of innovation. In the past, all of the nation's telephony needs were Circuit Switched and based on the PSTN network. Today however, VoIP is rewriting the rules of telecommunications. And just when it seems that cellular phone services have worked out all of their issues, along comes mobile VoIP with a whole new set of problems.

Besides security issues, there are other problems besetting VoWiFi, such as weak batteries, the inability to sustain a connection outside of a hotspot or 90 meter range, and the cost of a VoWiFi phone is still expensive. Yet the idea of integrating video, digital cameras, web cams, Email, web based applications, and mobile phones is exciting consumers world wide. And the onset of VoIP is even more thrilling for the potential benefits and savings.

For more information, news and resources about VoIP, Skype and Internet telephones, please visit http://www.howvoipworks.info.

The Voip Insurgency

Writen by Michael Brito

There was a dreadful time in history when the telecom regime (local phone companies) held consumers captive by charging high prices for phone service. To make matters worse, this regime would nickel and dime consumers to death for additional features like voicemail, call waiting, caller ID, and call forwarding. Not to mention their customer service or lack thereof, was and still is a horrifying experience. This long history of monopolizing the telecommunication industry has finally come to an end. It's time for a regime change. Consumers now have an alternative – introducing VoIP.

VoIP, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol, is a technology that allows you to make phone calls over an existing Internet connection instead of a regular (analog) phone line. Some services that use VoIP only allow you to call other people using the same service, usually done when making PC to PC phone calls. Other services allow you to call anyone, anywhere (as long as they have a telephone number) including: local & long distance, mobile, and international numbers. This type of VoIP service allows you to use a traditional phone that plugs directly into a phone adapter.

The great thing about VoIP is that all the additional features are included in the monthly fee. These features include: unlimited local & long distance calls into the US & Canada, voicemail, call waiting, caller id, three-way, just to name a few. Most VoIP service providers typically charge between $20 and $25 dollars a month.

VoIP is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to completely redesign the entire world's communication infrastructure. VoIP providers have already been around for several years and growing at a tremendous rate. Currently, there are over 6 million users of VoIP worldwide and that numbers is growing exponentially.

FAQ about VoIP

Can you provide me with a brief explanation of VoIP? VoIP allows you to make phone calls over an existing Internet connection. VoIP converts a voice signal (analog) from your phone into a digital signal that then travels over the Internet to the desired location. It then converts the digital signal back to analog so the person on the other end can hear what you are saying.

How do I make a VoIP phone call? The first step of making a VoIP phone call is to subscribe to a service. Once you sign up for service, the VoIP service provider will then send you a broadband phone adapter, which plugs directly into your internet connection. You will then have to plug your existing telephone into the phone adapter. Lastly, all you have to do is pick up the phone and dial the number.

What kind of equipment do I need to use VoIP? You need three things in order to use VoIP: 1) A high-speed Internet connection (either cable or DSL); A broadband phone adapter (provided by the VoIP service provider); and 3) any standard (analog or digital) phone.

Is there a difference when placing a local or long distance call when using VoIP? Not really. VoIP phone calls are made just the same way as traditional calls are made. When dialing local calls, all you have to do is dial 7 digits (555-1212) and when dialing long distance, all you have to do is dial 11 digits (1-408-555-1212).

Can I call anyone using VoIP? Yes. You can call anyone, anywhere as long as they have a valid phone number. It can be a local call, long distance call, international call, cell phone, toll free, 911 (assuming they have E911 capability)and 411 directory assistance. Most VoIP providers will not allow calls to 900 or 976 phone numbers, nor will they accept collect calls.

What are some advantages of using VoIP?
1. Cost - Most VoIP providers charge between $20 and $25 a month.
2. Unlimited calling in the U.S and Canada.
3. All the features are included (voicemail, caller id, call waiting, 3-way, call forwarding and much more)
4. VoIP is portable. You can take the phone adapter anywhere where there is an existing Internet connection, plug it in and make calls if you were at home.
5. The ability to choose your own area code. You can live in New York and choose to have a California phone number.

Are there any disadvantages of using VoIP?
Yes.

1. If the power goes out in your home you will also lose your Internet connection, which means that your phone service will also be down. Some VoIP service providers offer a feature that allows customers to designate a forwarding number if their Internet connection goes down for any reason.

2. Not all VoIP Providers offer E911. This means that if you call 911 from your VoIP phone, it may not go to the local public dispatcher. Rather, it will get routed to an answering service first.

3. Call Quality. At certain times of the day, the call quality of phone conversations will suffer. This could be due to bandwidth sharing, or slow Internet connection.

Do I need a computer to use VoIP?
No. Although most VoIP customers do have a computer, one is not needed. The broadband phone adapter simply plugs into a router (or modem) to get a connection.

Can I use VoIP when I travel? Yes. You can use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high speed Internet connection available and you bring your broadband phone adapter and phone with you.

How will I know if someone is calling me from a VoIP phone? You won't. The VoIP phone works just like a traditional phone. The quality and experience is that good.

Join the rebellion aimed at overthrowing the telecommunications industry by force. Switch to VoIP today and start saving tomorrow.

Click here for more in-depth information about voip products and services.

Michael Brito is an internet marketing consultant and freelance writer for a variety of consumer related products.

What Is Voip Technology

Writen by Sandra Stammberger

You may have heard the term Voip used a lot in the media, but are not sure what everyone is so excited about. Here you will find the answers to your most sought after Voip technology questions.

What is Voip technology?

Technically, VOIP is Voice Over Internet Protocol, or voices traveling over internet lines and wires like other information would. So, what does this mean to you? A lot. Even if you don't have a clue what Voip technology is, you may still be utilizing it everyday if you have a digital phone line or if you use a microphone hooked into your computer to speck to others while you are connected to the internet.

What is Voip technology going to do for me?

Digital phone and services like it keep costs down for the company, which is passed on to the consumer. It is usually much cheaper then a traditional land phone line, especially if you want extras such as caller ID and call forwarding.

What is Voip technology going to lack?

As great as Voip technology may be, there are some drawbacks that one using it for your phone service should realize. First, most digital phone companies do not provide access to emergency assistance numbers, such as 911 for those in the US. This may leave your household vulnerable if you use digital phone. Some consumers overcome this by keeping a basic plan with there traditional phone company provider or have a cell phone available in case of an emergency.

Another drawback to Voip technology in the form of digital phone is that if your power goes out, so does your phone. When you have a service through a traditional phone company, you can still access your line even during power outages as long as you do not need a second power source to run it (ex: cordless phones need a second power source to run, so when the power goes out so does your phone). This is not so with digital phone. However, once again having a basic plan with your traditional phone company or having a cell phone on hand may remedy this problem.

What is Voip technology overall?

Voip technology can be an asset to anyone. It keeps the cost of having a land phone line cheap while still allowing us to communicate verbally without having to rely solely on cell phones. The next time you are taking a look at your high-price phone bill from your phone company, take another look at digital phone and Voip technology in general. You may rack up savings that you never even knew existed.

S. Stammberger is the owner of http://www.voip-2006.com - Your Resource Center for everything related to Internet Telephony.

Upgrade Your Office Using Voip Phone Systems

Writen by James Hunt

One of the newest and hottest technologies to come down the technological pike is VOIP (voice over internet protocol). VOIP technology allow you to route your long distance telephone calls over the internet. By using the internet act as the carrier of your long distance calls, you bypass the long distance telephone company (and the long distance telephone company's charges). VOIP calls are usually MUCH cheaper than their standard land line counterparts. VOIP long distance calls cost pennies on the dollar compared to standard terrestrial phone long distance charges.

Besides offering and inexpensive solution for companies to save a ton of money on their long distance bills (the standard phone bill for one office in an international company can be tens of thousands of dollars, if not more, in just one year), VOIP offers features that are not accessible with standard land line telephone service (sometimes referred to as "POTS" or plain ol' telephone service) without the addition of expensive, proprietary software/hardware combinations such as PBX units.

One T1 line (and under lighter use, consumer grade DSL and cable internet connections) can handle multiple phone calls, and software on the client side can be used to record voice mail messages and allow for employees to check their phone calls much like they check there mail, often with remote office features that allow "road warriors" greater flexibility in their phone usage while away from the office.

If you want the most high tech solution available for modern telephony that is also the most cost effective over a time span as little as one year, you should consider using VOIP technology when preparing you company's IT agenda and communication systems. Feature for feature and dollar for dollar, VOIP cannot be beat in the world of high tech digital telephony. The combination of features and price are unparalleled in the industry, and the quality of voice communications has not only met, but far surpassed the quality of traditional phone lines.

James Hunt has spent 15 years as a professional writer and researcher covering stories that cover a whole spectrum of interest. Read more at http://www.best-in-phone-systems.com

Using Voip For Your Business

Writen by Bob Hett

Communication is important for us. Since the development of the internet, it has made communication faster and more efficient by using emails.

With this technology, researchers and developers invented the Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP for short. VoIP works like your regular landline phone, but instead of using telephone lines, VoIP uses the internet to transmit voice and video data to the person you are calling. With VoIP, it is possible to make free or cheap long distance calls.

VoIP not only enable us to call long distance free, but also lets us view the person we are calling with the use of a webcam or videophone.

With free long distance calls and conferencing, VoIP benefits businesses in many ways. Many features offered by VoIP free or at a minimal cost enabled VoIP literally replace traditional phones.

VoIP is probably the best way to keep in touch with your business associates and customers.

With VoIP it can make your business, either small or large, have an edge against your competitors.

Here are some features that can benefit your business by using VoIP:

With video conferencing capabilities, you can conduct meetings and presentation right in your own office. No longer will you spend expensive travel expenses when using VoIP. It allows you to close deals with your customers a lot faster than before.

Save money on phone bills. With VoIP, this is possible. You will just pay your monthly internet connection bills and small fees to your VoIP internet service provider allowing more profits for your business.

Not only that VoIP is limited to calling other VoIP phones, but it also allows you to call mobile phones, regular phones, and long distance or international numbers for a very low cost.

With the technology to take your own personal VoIP number, it is possible to make and receive calls anywhere you are in the planet as long as there is an internet connection. This feature allows you to not miss any business opportunities or emergencies while you travel.

This means more business deals, therefore, more profits and also you can take care of your clients while you travel, answering their important questions about your products or services.

A business wants to minimize expenses in order to gain more profit, therefore allowing the business to grow. With VoIP, it can significantly cut your phone expenses, traveling expenses, and more.

However, no matter how many great features VoIP offer, it still depends on your internet connection. If you plan to integrate VoIP in your business, be sure your internet connection is high speed and reliable in order to prevent voice delays or being cut off.

Remember that good communication is crucial for a business to succeed, meaning that a voice lag can mean the difference of an answer to your business associates or clients. A one-second delay may not seem much but it can make the difference of a simple "yes" or "no" answer. This can lead to misunderstanding, therefore, possible of not making the deal.

Choosing the VoIP service provider is also an important factor for your business. Choose one that offers maximum voice quality and reliability.

Also, remember that features such as caller ID, call waiting, speed dialing, call forwarding, video phone, voice mails, call logs, conference calls, long distance or international calls, and call hold should be offered cheap or no fee at all.

Bob Hett has extensively covered the VoIP Service Provider industry as an analyst and has researched the various companies for factors based on price, reliability, support and overall quality. Learn more at VoIP for Business

Definity Systems Facts Behind The Myths

Writen by Cameron George Elliott

Definity Systems cannot support the network needs of businesses.
This is blatantly wrong: Avaya Phone Systems designed Definity Systems specifically to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Smaller business will benefit from the Definity Server CSI, capable of supporting between 50 and 250 users on the network. For mid- sized and large business, there is the Definity Server SI, which can accommodate up to 500 users on the network.

Once you buy Definity Systems, you're stuck with it; Definity Systems are not able to grow with the company. You have to buy a whole new network in order to upgrade.
This myth is misplaced. Perhaps you're thinking of other companies, but all of Avaya's products are scalable solutions; Avaya works with you to create a system that meets the needs of your company.

Avaya knows that companies change and grow; that's why Definity Systems can be upgraded without having to purchase a whole new system.

Definity Systems are a waste of money.
Definity is a smart financial move for two reasons: Avaya firmly believes in the idea of investment protection, allowing you to embrace new technology while keeping many of your existing components.

And, in the long run, installing a Definity Systems can actually save you money through Communication Manager, a powerful telephony software that helps increase productivity and profits.

Before Definity Systems are fully functional, you have buy a whole host of additional components and products, things I don't need nor want.
Nope. Definity Systems, like all of Avaya Phone Systems products, is designed to be an all- in- one solution. In other words, Definity Systems includes everything to help improve productivity and efficiency, without requiring you to buy additional components.

Additionally, Definity Systems are built along a modular design; as you upgrade, and as your business grows and changes, you only need to buy the components you need.

Definity Systems lacks the powerful features I need.
Not true at all: Definity Systems is powered by Avaya's powerful, industry leading Communications Manager, giving you world- class telephony capabilities. Communications Manager includes over 700 advanced features that can improve the efficiency of your business.

Definity Systems also includes value- added applications like voice messaging, networking abilities, and call center.

Definity Systems only supports IP networks.
Very false. Definity Systems works with traditional and IP networks, as well as converged networks. Definity Systems supports business with a single location, and business with multiple locations.

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

The Need For Modules

Writen by Cameron George Elliott

It happens to every successful business: you installed a shiny new Avaya Partner Systems network and it worked beautifully. A little too beautifully. Business became so productive and so efficient that more and more employees had to be hired. Soon, there weren't any available lines or extensions. Chaos reigned. Employees had to share phones, 5 people to a phone. You had to disconnect from the internet so you could plug in your fax machine.

Company heads spent countless hours in meetings, sending memo after memo filled with cries for help. Buying another network was suggested by a lower ranking executive, but he was fired for offering silly, wasteful ideas.

There is an answer though, a solution, a way out from the despair and misery caused by a fundamental lack of lines and extensions. Modules.

Modules are Quick and Easy

Modules are the key that unlocks the door to providing a phone for every employee, a port for every computer and fax machine. So expand quickly and with ease. Sleep soundly knowing you're picking an efficient, cost effective trunking option.

The T1 module has two benefits: it adds 16 lines of fractional T1 service and better utilization of T1 functionality. But why stop at a single module; more employees equals more lines, and one module only gives you 16 extras.

Purchase multiple modules, and you can create the perfect network, capable of supporting all your employees. Depending on how you configure them, the modules can either add up to 19 lines and 44 extensions, or 31 lines and 8 extensions. It's your choice, based on your needs.

Modules Have Features

Modules have another benefit: they have features. The features are icing on the network expanding cake. The cake is rich and moist; the flavor is perfectly balanced without being too heavy. On its own, the cake would be just fine. But the icing adds a whole new dimension to the cake. A new characteristic that enhances the overall flavor of the cake. It's the same way with the modules and features.

They come with advanced telephony capabilities that help increase the productivity and efficiency: caller ID, send all calls, and 5 party conference call. The features also boost mobility; Cell Phone Connect and Remote Call Forwarding work in conjunction allowing you to receive business calls anywhere you go.

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

Voice Activated Internet Surfing Search And Railroad Vibrations

Writen by Lance Winslow

Well voice-activated Internet surfing and searching is almost here, in fact Google announced its plans to offer free software online so people could search the Internet using voice-activated tools. Sounds pretty cool does it not?

Indeed, however for those of us who use voice-activated software in business correspondence, writing or in schoolwork, we know you need a certain environment and special microphones otherwise the background noises and vibrations will make it impossible for your voice-activated software to understand your exact meaning and therefore you will not be able to search around the Internet this way.

One thing I have found using voice-activated software is that if there is a railroad nearby and a train coming the vibrations mess up the words that you speak into the microphone and the voice-activated software is confused. Whereas this may not concern you too much it is not just trains and railroads that cause problems.

For instance if you were on your computer at an airport terminal the roar of the Jets will mess up your voice-activated software. If you are sitting inside Starbucks using your voice-activated software and an alarm goes off in the parking lot or a kid listening to rap music with big speakers; this too will make it impossible for you to speak to talk. And consider that the car is out of the parking lot and you cannot control it. Air-conditioning units that are on full power will also disrupt sound waves. I hope you will consider all this in 2006.

Lance Winslow

Save Money Now With Cheap Voip Services

Writen by Mike Singh

For those who want to make phone calls at much lower rates, cheap VoIP services is the best alternative to traditional phone companies. Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP technology uses voice signals transmitted over the Internet for communication. These companies that offer VoIP are much cheaper for people who do a lot of long distance communication.

VoIP is much cheaper than all other telephone services because there is no basic facilities and capital equipment needed to invest in. Voice traffic is routed through the Internet to make speaking to people easy and cheap. The VoIP service providers pay a specific fee when calls surpass the net to traditional phone lines. When calls are made to and from Internet enabled phones the provider has no cost except for a termination fee if applicable. This reduces the cost to the consumer, making VoIP services cheap for long distance calling.

Those individuals who subscribe to VoIP phone services benefit the most and have as much as one half the bill as they did before. For many overseas consumers the savings are absolutely amazing. Communication via a traditional telephone company for overseas users can add up quickly in the hundreds and thousands. Using a VoIP services can cut international calling costs tremendously and save customers hundreds of dollars.

When VoIP was first out to the public the voicing quality was not as enhanced as it is today. With the advances in Internet features and technology the voice quality on VoIP service has improved and complaints are no longer an issue. Those who switch over to the cheaper VoIP service have many added features and benefits. There are many free perks that come with subscription as well as extra benefits and features for a very small fee.

Many phone service providers are now switching their plans to offer VoIP service to their customers. With the added competition fees and prices are continuously reduced to promote more people to switch over. Many other types of phone service providers are simply trying to offer pre-paid international calling at reduced prices to keep their customers from leaving. Many of these pre-paid calling plans still are more than VoIP services and do not benefit those who use international calling frequently.

An easiest way to find the cheapest VoIP services available today is to search online. You will be able to find the perfect VoIP provider for you and your needs from the comfort of your own home. You will be able to compare plans that range from domestic, domestic-international, or international calling to find the cheapest rates available.

Check out http://www.why-switch-to-voip.com/ to get an overview of voip and read more about ip phone systems.

Voip Calling Options With Voice Over Internet Protocol

Writen by Frank Owen

One of the reasons VoIP is so poplar is it affords users multiple methods for placing a phone call. Here are some choices you have when you use VoIP services:

Buy an IP phone

You can purchase a special phone that looks much like an ordinary phone, but offers an Ethernet connector. This means you can connect the phone to your router and make IP calls easily from your computer once hooked up correctly. Developers are also currently working on Wi-Fi versions of these phones, which will allow consumers to place calls from anywhere Wi-Fi is available.

Connect from one computer to another

This is probably the least complicated way to take advantage of VoIP. Simply connect computer to computer to the person you want to call. You will need some equipment, including a microphone (so you can talk to someone), speakers (to hear them) and a sound card. You'll probably also want a fast internet connection. Other than that, use this method and you can make free long distance calls anywhere in the world.

Use an analog telephone adaptor

An analog telephone adaptor or ATA lets you connect your computer or Internet connection to an ordinary phone so you can take advantage of VoIP technology. This converter will change analog signals into digital information your computer can interpret. All you have to do is plug a cable connecting your phone to your computer and you are ready to go!

Article by Frank Owen, visit his web site on voip for more information on voice over ip http://www.voipresourcehub.com

A Look At Internet Voice Technology Voip For Residential

Writen by Sarah Lake

Today's Technology

Over the years, the technology has made remarkable progress. Telephony's improved data compression rate, better sound quality, and the availability of residential broadband has given consumers more affordable solutions with even more features than you might have currently. Today, there are a number of available service providers with most offering the equipment for free along with pricing packages that can reduce your phone bills by up to 50% or more.

How It Works

Internet Voice, commonly known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), uses your broadband Internet connection to make and receive phone calls instead of your regular phone line. It works by converting your phone calls to data packets and sends the information over your Internet connection, like email, and is received on the other end just like a regular phone call.

Source: Vonage.com

What's the advantage? Using your Internet connection instead of your phone line is less expensive. You can call anywhere, anytime for less and still get features like Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Caller ID, 3-way Calling, and so much more.

One common misconception about VoIP is that it's a bandwidth hog, when, in fact, voice is a very efficient type of traffic. As a rule of thumb, 14 Kbps of bandwidth per call is ideal. This includes the compressed voice packet and the IP overhead. While your broadband connection will range from 768 Kbps – 1.5 Mbps, this is negligible and not worth concerning yourself over.

The Disadvantages

If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with Internet Voice, there are some things you should consider when looking at the various providers.

Some Internet Voice services don't work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power; Additional steps may be required for setting up 911 calls where you will need to register an address for location identification; or

DSL users cannot completely eliminate their land line because the broadband runs through this connection; or They may or may not offer white page listings.

Let's Talk Features

VoIP service providers offer different packages to fit your specific needs. Actual usage, desired features, and potential expansion capabilities will be the determining factors when selecting a package. The basic plans most VoIP providers offer include:

Low-cost Basic with Limited Usage
Unlimited US and Canada calls
Unlimited Business with Fax

You're almost certain to save money switching to VoIP. Not only is the monthly service itself generally less expensive than your current phone company's monthly service, the features you get with VoIP are much more extensive and are, most of the time, offered for free. Features like:

Web Based Administration – Allows you to configure your phone settings and log all your calls in real time.

Caller ID – Standard with all VoIP service providers.

Voice Mail – Replaces your answering machine and lets you listen to voice messages on-line.

Call forwarding – Forward calls to your cell, office, or any other number after a predetermined number of rings.

Portability – Take your phone adapter anywhere around the world, use your same phone number, and call anytime, anywhere in the US for free, and vice-versa

Software Phone – this application can be installed on any PC and will function exactly the same way as any VoIP phone

Call Transfer
3-way conferencing v Call return
What You Need

An Internet connection - While VoIP works with a regular 56kbps dial-up connection, it is highly recommended you use a Cable or DSL broadband connection.

A Computer – The only reason you will need a computer (PC or Mac) is to configure the phone adaptor to work with your broadband service provider. Once this is done, you will not need to do this again.

A Digital Phone Adapter – DPA's, also referred to as phone adapters, are provided mostly free of charge. This is similar to your Cable/DSL router that converts the signal to use a regular phone or fax unit.

A Telephone – There are also options for plugging in multiple phones to a single DPA unit.

A VoIP Service provider – There are several available. Here are a few you might want to check out:

1. Vonage

2. Packet8

3. Lingo

4. AT&T CallVantage

5. Verizon

Get More Info

VoIP-Info.org - This web site covers everything related to VoIP - software, hardware, service providers, reviews, configurations, standards, tips & tricks and everything else related to voice over IP networks, IP telephony and Internet Telephony.

FCC - The Federal Communications Commission provides a list of Frequently Asked Questions for those looking to switch to VoIP.

VoIP User Forum - An independent information guide to Internet Telephony

Disclaimer - The Micro 2000 Tech Tip is a free service providing information only. While we use reasonable care to see that this information is correct, we do not guarantee it for accuracy, completeness or fitness for a particular purpose. Micro 2000, Inc. shall not be liable for damages of any kind in connection with the use or misuse of this information.

Micro 2000 Inc has been helping to solve the day-to-day challenges that IT departments face in order to keep their businesses operational as well as profitable for over 14 years. The company's primary goal is to put the customer first - through feature-rich, simple-to-use IT tools that can help IT administrators manage their jobs more effectively.

For more advice and free articles be sure to visit: http://www.micro2000.co.uk

Intro To Voice Over Internet Protocol Save Money With Every Phone Call

Writen by Ron King

You've probably heard about Voice over Internet Protoco (abbreviated VoIP or VOIP). It is one of the hottest computer technologies today.

VoIP was developed to provide voice communication between computer users at different locations. Although still used in this manner, it's been developed much further -- into a full-fledged telephone network that allows us to place telephone calls through the Internet.

People who use VoIP can place calls to any telephone anywhere in the world. The calls are received on telephone sets connected to the Internet or Local Area Network (LAN). VoIP is already replacing some telephone networks with people and businesses canceling their traditional phone lines in favor of the cost savings of VoIP.

Background

Israeli computer enthusiasts were the first to make computer-to-computer voice connections back in 1995. That same year, the technology was further developed into a software package called Internet Phone Software. All you needed to speak with another computer user then was a modem, sound card, speakers, and microphone.

The software digitized and compressed audio signals before sending them over the Internet. These voice connections only occurred between computers equipped with the software. The original sound quality was very poor.

Technology progressed. By 1998 gateways had been established allowing PC-to-phone connections. Later that year phone-to-phone connections using the Internet for voice transmission were in place. Phone-to-phone connections still required a computer to initiate the call, but once the connection was established, callers could use a standard phone set.

That Was Then -- This Is Now

There are now a variety of VoIP services available, for both residential and commercial use. Some continue to rely on PC-to-PC connections, but may also offer PC-to-phone and phone-to-phone services.

There are phones that plug into a sound card or USB port of a computer. These phones may have number pads and ringers that allow you to use them just like conventional telephones. The computer can even be bypassed completely by connecting a phone directly to a broadband modem (either DSL or cable).

How Does VoIP Work?

The first step in using VoIP is converting your voice into digital data. This is done by 'sampling' your voice. The analog sound signal is divided into distinct steps that can be assigned number values. After your voice is digitized, the data can be compressed.

The compressed digital data is then split into 'packets' of about 1500 bytes that can be transferred via the Internet. In addition to voice data, the packets contain information about their origin, destination, and a time-stamp that permits a reconstruction in the exact order. When the packets arrive at their destination, the data are reassembled and converted back to analog. The receiving party then -- voila -- hears your voice.

A broadband Internet connection, however, is needed to speed up voice data transmission. Many households and businesses are already using broadband, either DSL or cable, which makes adding VoIP fairly simple.

So, if saving money is on your To Do list for this year, check out VoIP.

Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Visit voip-solutions-now to learn more about this subject.

Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Are You Using Callwave

Writen by Brian Shoemaker

You should be if you find yourself waiting around for telephone calls at home or in the office, missing telephone calls while on the internet or needing a fax machine. With CallWave, you don't have to wait around for telephone calls, purchase another telephone line so you don't miss any telephone calls while surfing the net or purchase a fax machine for your business.

CallWave uses VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) technology. It alerts you when you have home telephone calls through your home PC (while connected to the internet through broadband) or alerts you when you have business telephone calls through your business PC (while connected to the internet through broadband). With CallWave, you can take home or business telephone calls through your cell phone. You can also receive left messages through your PC or through a toll free telephone number. Also, using VoIP technology, it screens the telephone calls you receive while on your computer by acting like an answering machine. If you decide to take the call, you can send it to your land line phone or cell phone. CallWave also lets you receive faxes without a fax machine. Faxes are sent right to your email and there is no limit to the number of faxes you can receive.

Brian Shoemaker is the owner of web hosting directory Find-A-Web-Host.com and ISPShakedown.com. Find an ISP here and/or download CallWave here.

Common Questions About Voip

Writen by Amber Lowery

Unless you live in a bubble, you have probably been hearing alot of buzz lately about something called Voice Over IP (VoIP). Perhaps you have heard that you can use VoIP to get cheap or free long distance calling, even Internationally. The good news is that this is true!

VoIP, which stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol is an exciting synergy between computers and telephony, but don't let that scare you. VoIP is just as easy to use as any ordinary telephone. So, you have heard the buzz and perhaps you are curious about taking the plunge and getting set up with VoIP service. Being so new, VoIP is still somewhat shrouded in mystery. Help is here! In this article we will answer several common questions most people have about VoIP Service and help clear up the confusion about the technology and how it can work for you.

What Exactly is VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol)? VoIP is a new technology that makes use of your broadband connection to route your telephone calls over the internet, rather than using the traditional analog telephone lines. This has proven to be a very efficient and cost effective way to place phone calls to anywhere in the world.

Who Can I call? This depends upon your service provider. There are a few different flavors of Voice Over IP Service. Most of the larger VoIP service providers you see advertised to the consumer market (such as Vonage, BlueSky, etc..) work just like your existing phone and enable you to call any phone, anywhere.

What's It Going To Cost? The cost for this service varies depending on the provider and the service plan you select. Currently, most service providers have plans that cost in the $10 - $25 monthly, which is considerably cheaper than ordinary phone service. Keep in mind that this service includes long distance calls. Usually, you can choose from several plans that vary in cost depending on the level of usage you desire. Most companies also offer an unlimited plan that includes unlimited long distance calls.

You will also be plesantly surprised to find that many services such as caller id, call forwarding, call waiting, three way calling, and even voice mail features often come standard with most VoIP plans. Another great benefit is that as it currently stands (in January 2006), the Government does not apply a tax to your VoIP service, unlike the additional taxes and fees that are applied to your standard phone bill. This can amount to a substantial savings alone, but this may only be a temporary benefit. As VoIP gains in popularity, it is more than likely that the Government will find a way to tax that as well.

Do I Need "Special Stuff"?

This depends on the provider, once again. One thing that you must have is an always on broadband internet connection. This means DSL or Cable Internet, for home users. Depending on whom you get service with, you will likely have to connect just regular phone to an adapter, or maybe purchase a special phone to use with the service. Check for specials before you sign up, sometimes the equipment is given away for free to encourage you to sign up. Regardless, the investment in hardware for home users of VoIP is very minimal, if it costs you at all.

Can I call 911?

You need to check with the provider to ensure that they do indeed provide this functionality. That said, in May 2005, the US Government ordered all interconnected VoIP Providers to provide 911 functionality to their subscribers.

Sounds... Too Good, What's the Catch?

Well, there is a minor catch which is that if your internet goes out, so does your phone. This isn't usually too big of a problem, however as most modern broadband ISPs do a great job of maintaining reliable service.

Where Do I Find VoIP Providers?

Usually, it is not important that you find a local provider just as long as the provider you choose is based in the same country. Therefore, the internet is a very valuable resource for finding and comparing VoIP providers.

Which one Do I choose?

The VoIP provider that you choose is a personal choice, as they all tend to work slightly differently. What sounds the most feasible for your setup and usage requirements is the best choice for you. Do keep in mind that this is a rapidly maturing technology and that changes are occurring all the time. You will want to choose a company that you feel will be able to provide you reliable service in the future.

For more information on VoIP(Voice Over IP) technology and to compare VoIP Providers, visit us at http://www.VoIPVolt.com

Take Advantage Of Internet Phone Calls Voip

Writen by Colin Brin

Voice Over IP (VOIP) is a relatively new technology. Voice Over IP allows people to leave behind the old and very traditional analogue phone networks and now adapt in favor of the very new and very progressive Internet-based calling system infrastructure. Using this technology for your communications actually works out cheaper for you in the long run as it means you won't need to pay for calls if the people you are calling and speaking to are also using the same VOIP system.

Voice Over IP runs on several different types of infrastructure. This is the main reason why you should take the time to do your homework and find out how it works and what is involved, before you even consider setting up a Voice Over IP network at your home or place of business. When you do your homework you will see that invariably VOIP offers lots of advantages over and above the standard traditional telephone based analogue service that most people are currently using. Let's take a moment to examine some of the advantages of using Voice Over IP.

The main advantage of Voice Over IP is to be honest - the cost - the cost benefit goes directly back into your pocket. And because Voice Over IP uses the infrastructure of the Internet to make outgoing calls, you will never need to pay your traditional phone provider to maintain a telephone line or for phone and line rental. In addition, many Voice Over IP service providers allow customers to make long distance calls that attract minimal or no long distance charges at all. Many service providers even offer customer VOIP packages that allow you to opt for discounted internet call rates so you can save even more.

But what about this for a benefit? If you have Voice Over IP software installed on your PC and you want to speak to someone who is also uses Voice Over IP, then you are able to talk for as long as you want without having to pay a single cent. This is because your voice is actually transformed into digital data packets rather than audio, and the data is transferred in a similar fashion to that of email. Voice Over IP also makes it very easy and cheap to conduct conference calls and video calls.

There are, of course, some minor disadvantages to using Voice Over IP and you should consider these before you embark on setting up Voice Over IP. Since Voice Over IP is a relatively recent and largely untapped technology, Voice Over IP is prone to experience more errors than using a normal phone would. In addition, if you experience a power failure, then you would be unable to make a call, like you could with a traditional analogue phone. In any event, Voice Over IP is something that you should investigate for your own home and business needs and you should consider it soon while the rates are cheap and the deals are good.

Colin Brin is the owner of AB Voip which is a premier source of information about Voip. For more information, go to: http://abvoip.com

Voip Voice Over Internet Protocol An Overview

Writen by David Dunlap

You've probably at least heard of the word "VoIP", even if you didn't quite understand what all the excitement is about. VoIP stands for "Voice over Internet Protocol" and is going to change the way you think about making long distance phone calls. Basically, VoIP technology turns analog audio signals (i.e. the sounds you hear when talking on your regular telephone) into a digital signal (which is then transmitted over the Internet.)

So why is VoIP revolutionizing the industry?

Because it means that by getting your hands on some of the free software that's available right now, you can totally bypass your telephone company, and start making long distance phone calls for free! This revolutionary technology has the ability to totally change the phone system of the entire world! Perhaps you've seen television commercials for one of the pioneers of VoIP - Vonage. Vonage brands itself as the "broadband telephone company" and offers enticing perks to customers who switch to it's VoIP service such as low-cost 800 numbers and very cheap international rates (fees are waived from the U.S. to Canada, and international calls are as low as .03 cents a minute to overseas locations such as Paris). But Vonage isn't the only company who is interested in harnessing the power of VoIP. AT&T is setting up VoIP calling in several areas of the U.S. and there are other major VoIP players on the scene as well, such as Skype, who is relying on viral advertising to get the word out. Even some regional cable television companies are now offering VoIP telephone service at deep discounts to their customers.

One of the interesting components about VoIP is that there's not just one way to make a VoIP call. There are actually three ways to make a VoIP call:

1) VoIP via ATA: is the most commonly used VoIP method right now. Using the ATA (analog telephone adaptor), you connect your regular telephone to your computer or Internet connection. The ATA is an analog-to-digital converter and it takes the analog signal from your phone and converts it into digital data and transmits it over the Internet so you are able to make VoIP calls. This is how Vonage and AT&T's CallVantage handle VoIP calls. The ATA is free with their services. And using an ATA for VoIP is so simple that anyone can do it. Open the box, plug the cable from your phone into the ATA instead of the wall socket, and you're ready to begin making VoIP calls. Depending on your computer, where you live, and what type of Internet connection you have, you may need to also install VoIP software onto your computer, but this shouldn't be too difficult for most people.

2) VoIP via IP Phones:VoIP phones look just like a standard telephone. They have a handset, cradles and buttons. But an VoIP phone uses an RJ-45 Ethernet connector instead of the standard RJ-11 phone connectors. VoIP phones connect directly to your router and all the hardware and software is already built inside to handle your VoIP calls. Look for Wi-Fi IP phones to be available in the near future, which will allow you to make VoIP calls from any Wi-Fi hotspot. This will allow you to take your VoIP phone with you when you travel, and stop in at any Internet café, hotel or other location where you can use your Wi-Fi laptop, and you can use VoIP technology to "phone home" from anyplace in the world.

3) VoIP via Computer-to-Computer:This is arguably the easiest way to use VoIP. There are no fees for long distance calls and there are several companies offering free or low-cost software right now for you to make use of VoIP technology. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and a broadband or cable DSL Internet connection, and you can start using VoIP service right away. Except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is no charge for any computer-to-computer VoIP call, no matter how far away they are. www.skype.com is one such VoIP service. Chances are, you've already been using the VoIP technology without even being aware of it, any time you've made a long distance telephone call recently. Many of the major phone companies are already using VoIP technology to reduce their own bandwidth. It's a simple matter of routing thousands of phone calls through a circuit switch and into an IP gateway. Once received on the other side of the gateway, the VoIP calls are decompressed, reassembled and routed back to a local circuit switch.

VoIP telephony is the wave of the future.

VoIP technology makes sense in terms of ROI, from both an economic and infrastructure point of view. It may take some time, but eventually all of the current circuit-switched networks that are in use today will be replaced by packet-switching VoIP technology. More and more businesses are already installing VoIP systems, and as VoIP technology makes its way into our everyday language, our lives, and our homes, it will continue to grow in popularity. According to Forrester Research, nearly 5 million U.S. households will have VoIP phone service by the end of 2006. The two biggest advantages of VoIP for home users are price and flexibility. Currently, most VoIP providers offer calling plans similar to that of cell-phone companies, which are commonly called "minute-rate" plans, for as little as $30 a month. And as with cell-phone plans, you can also get unlimited plans for around $79 a month.

With the elimination of long-distances charges, unregulated charges, and all the freebies that come standard with VoIP service, it can actually amount to a significant savings for you. For example, you may be paying extra for features like:

· Call waiting
· Three way calling
· Call forwarding
· Caller I.D.
· Repeat dial
· Last call return with VoIP

These services come standard. Plus there are some advanced features that make VoIP something worth looking into. With some VoIP carriers, you can set up call-filtering options and actually have some control over how calls from certain numbers are handled. For example, you can:

· Forward the call to a particular number
· Send the call directly to voicemail
· Give the caller a busy signal
· Play a "not in service" message with most VoIP services.

You can also check your voice mail on the Internet, or attach messages to an email that is sent directly to your computer or handheld. (By the way, if you're interested in any of these features, not all VoIP companies are created equal, so do a little shopping around first, because VoIP prices and services do vary).

The second benefit that makes VoIP so attractive for home and small business users is flexibility. With VoIP you can make a call anywhere you can get broadband connectivity. Since the VoIP phones or ATAs broadcast information over the Internet, they can be administered by any provider. For business travelers, this means they can take their VoIP phone or ATA with them on the road and never miss a home phone call.

VoIP FAQ:

How does VoIP / Internet Phone Work?

VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is then converted back at the other end. VoIP can allow you to make a call directly from a computer. If you make a VoIP call using a phone with an adaptor, you'll be able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may also provide a dial tone. If your service assigns you a regular phone number, then a person can call you from his or her regular phone without using special equipment.

Does My Computer Have to be Turned On for VoIP to work?

Not if you are making VoIP calls with a phone and adaptor or special VoIP internet phone, however your broadband Internet connection needs to be active. You can also use your computer while talking on the phone.

Is There a Difference Between Making a Local Call and a Long Distance Call?

Some VoIP providers offer their local service for free, normally only charging for calls to non- subscribers to the VoIP service. Some VoIP internet telephony providers charge for long distance calls to numbers outside your calling area, similar to existing, traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes. Your VoIP internet telephony provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. This means that if your VoIP provider charges for long distance, then charges could be based on whether you call within your area code rather than geographic area. It also means that people who call you may incur long distance charges depending on their area code and service.

Can I Take My internet Phone Adapter with me when I Travel in order to use VoIP?

You may be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a broadband Internet connection available. In that case VoIP service would work the same as in your home.

How Do I Know If I have a VoIP Phone Call?

The phone will ring like any other call.

Additional Considerations for VoIP service:

If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with VoIP, there are some possible considerations you should be aware of: Some VoIP services will not work during power outages and the VoIP service provider may not offer backup power. It may also be difficult for some VoIP services to seamlessly connect with the 911 emergency dispatch center or to identify the location of VoIP 911 callers. In May 2005, the FCC ordered providers of Internet-based phone calls to certify that their customers will be able to reach an emergency dispatcher when they call 911.

Dispatchers also must be able to identify the caller's phone number and location. You can review additional information about VoIP and 911 considerations at www.911voip.org VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings. Aspects of these considerations may change with new development in Internet Voice technology. You should always check with the potential VoIP service provider to confirm any advantages and limitations to the VoIP service they offer.

To provide reliable VOIP information, David Dunlap has created a comprehensive resouce directory at http://voipservicepro.com where all of your VOIP questions can be answered.