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Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You? |
by:
Andrew Kelly |
VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This
translates into free, or very low cost long-distance calling. Because VoIP usespower of
the Internet, traditional phone companies are left completely out ofloop. Of course, now
thatidea of VoIP is catching on more and more, traditional phone companies are developing
and offering their own VoIP options so as not to be left out. Fromconsumer's point of
view, this competition is keeping options open and pricing low. For businesses, this is
particularly good news, since many VoIP providers will wantbusiness of business--this is a
huge market, which providers are aware, of, sosavvy businessperson will take advantage of
this, conduct thorough research, and seek outbest possible option to meetcompany's
needs.
What arePros to Using VoIP?
Cost isnumber one factor. If your business doeshigh volume of long distance calling, this
can beextremely affordable way to go. Another positive is thatfuture of long distance
calling is VoIP. As time passes, more and more options will be available andmarket will
become even more competitive. It is also easy to use, althoughbusiness set-up will be more
complicated thanhome set-up.
What areCons?
One disadvantage that many users report is that there tends to be"echo" when using VoIP.
How much ofdisadvantage this is may depend onuser. There can also beslight lag at
the beginning ofconversation.
Another potential disadvantage is thattechnology is fairly new. As VoIP becomes standard,
improvements will take place. Inmeantime, it is up to each business to determine if this
isway to go.
Also, because VoIP operates through your Internet connection, should you lose Internet service
for whatever reason or power, you will not have phone access untilservice or power is
restored.
Is VoIP Right for my Business?
As with any business decision, you should examine your needs and available services before
makingpurchasing decision. VoIP may produce substantial savings, but it could also produce
substantial headaches. Whether or not your company can navigate potential glitches with minimal
interruption is something you need to determine. Many traditional service providers offer
competitive pricing, andsecurity ofexisting structure may not be worthpotential
problems with VoIP. It is also necessary to price and comparetechnical requirements; will
your existing structure support VoIP, or willinvestment in technology offsetpotential
savings?
VoIP Business Options
Onbright side, because VoIP isgrowing service, many companies provide business
solutions andoffers and pricing are competitive. One thing to consider as you compare
options is contract terms. Becausetechnology is expanding, it is wise to avoid any long-
term contract, asbetter option may come along inmeantime. A variety of companies offer
business solutions. The following list is justfew:
•Sprint: http://www.sprint.com/business/products/categories/voip.jsp
•Lingo: http://www.lingo.com/voip/business/unlimited_internet_phone_ service.jsp
•Quest: http://www.qwest.com/largebusiness/products/voip/
•Pipex: http://www.pipex.net/products/voip/
How to Get Set Up for VoIP The technology required will depend onservice you choose. There
are three types of VoIP methods.
•ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor. It connects to your computer or Internet
connection and uses regular phone.
•IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect with
an Ethernet connector.
•Computer-to-computer iseasy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you
only pay forsoftware. While this method can work inbusiness setting, it may not be the
best solution, even though it is very cost effective.
VoIP requireshigh-speed Internet connection, and for business purposes, your set-up needs to
be able to handleadditional use that VoIP incurs. Essentially, there is no "one size fits
all" set-up guide for business VoIP options. The service you choose and your company's
individual requirements will determine what you will need.
Andrew Kelly isTechnology Consultant who helps keep businesses atleading edge of technology.
For more great tips and resources on everything voIP visit:
http://www.voipvoiceoveripcenter.com
Aboutauthor:
Andrew Kelly-- has beenleading Comminications & IT Consultant for onefive years, Andrew's current key roles are keeping Medical & Dental industries atcutting edge of Technology and two steps ahead ofrest.
Circulated by Article Emporium
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