VOIP introduction

The internet has revolutionalized the way we live. Technological developments give comfortness at each and every stage of life. Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) is the ability to transmit voice over the Internet either to receiving computers or mobile phones. VOIP communication is cheaper than the traditional communication methods. It works based on the Packet Switching Network where as landline telephone systems use the Circuit Switching Network. The traditional system uses electrical circuits in their communication but VOIP uses the Internet services. VOIP does not need any extra requirements and the existing Internet cables and other resources can be utilized to the maximum. The traditional system is very expensive to set and involves huge cost of maintenance.

VOIP technology

The technical advancement makes VOIP so popular. It is proved that VOIP is a viable source of telecommunication in the future. Telephone and Internet service provider companies provide the features for VOIP. People have to pay a meager amount to use the services offered. Users can make a phone call in 3 ways.

• The simplest way is to use a standard handset into the Analogue Terminal Adapter (ATA) and then connect ATA to computer or internet connection. The analog signals will be converted to digital signals which are done by the computer.
• IP phones handset comes with an RJ 45 Ethernet connector which will connect to the router enabling faster and efficient performance.
• A computer to computer voice call is enabled at free of cost. It supports even long distance calls.

Companies prefer VOIP technology to establish long distance calls. A simple example is the instant messaging systems like Yahoo, Gtalk, and MSN which will allow you to make a voice call immediately. It is supported by VOIP technology. It also supports live video streaming through high resolution web camera and video conference. The technology can handle text, audio, video, Email, and all other web based applications. The traditional features which were obtained in the normal telephone systems are even present in the VOIP phones. Features like Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, Call Blocking, Conference Calls, Voice Mail, Set a busy tone, Playing “not in service” message are absolutely free in VOIP technology. Some of the features mentioned above are expensive with the normal traditional phone system.

Potential VOIP benefits

The potential benefits of VOIP technology are unlimited. There are huge benefits still untapped and the technocrats are working at their best to discover more of technical enhancements. It makes the communication system very cheap and can seamlessly integrate into existing applications. The portability of phone systems is enhanced for the network administrators. Companies who have multiple branches around the globe prefer VOIP technology mostly because they can have the following benefits.

• Single receptionist
• Auto attendant facilities
• Interactive voice mail system

The internet users have also started exploring the cheap technology on understanding the full strength of it. VOIP technology encourages talking more and paying less for phone calls.