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VOIP-Voice Over IP at Home: Is it Right for You?

by: Andrew Kelly

VOIP AT HOME

What is VoIP?

Chances are you've heard of VoIP, or "voice over Internet." If not, you will soon, as major phone companies are now trying to get in onaction. Why? VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This essentially translates into "free" long distance, or, depending on set-up, unlimited long distance forlow set price forservice. When using VoIP,traditional phone company is left completely out ofloop--literally. The concept is muchsame as email; forprice ofInternet connection and provider, you can send unlimited email messages.

VoIP Pros

VoIP isaffordable method for long distance calling, and depending on where you live, you may be able to transfer you current phone number toVoIP system. VoIP is easy to use, and depending onservice and method you choose, installation can be as easy as downloading software or attachingadaptor to your computer. Formost part, sounds exactlysame as withtraditional telephone line. If you are using VoIP andother person is not, they will not knowdifference.

VoIP Cons

Some areas do not yet have this availability, but it is still possible to transfer long distance only to VoIP--it just means that you'll haveseparate number for long distance calling. This may beslight inconvenience, butsavings may offsetcost--it all depends on your needs. Also, some users report hearingecho when using VoIP. There can also beslight delay atbeginning ofcall.

One primary issue regarding VoIP isability to dial out for emergencies. Some providers work to place nineoneone calls (by configuring your service), and some do not. If you will be replacing your landline or mobile completely with VoIP, this is something you will want to research before choosingprovider and service.

Is VoIP Right for Me?

Deciding to choose VoIP depends on your needs. If you makelarge number of long distance calls, it may be well worth looking into. VoIP services are often much less expensive than traditional providers. When comparing VoIP to cell phone programs, it again depends on needs. Most VoIP packages are considerably less than cell phone unlimited calling plans, but of course, VoIP is not as flexible (yet) as far as portability and other features you may not want to give up on your cell plan.

How Do I Get Set-up for VoIP?

Technical requirements for VoIP depend onservice and method you choose to use. There are three types of VoIP options.

• ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor, and it's very simple to use. You connect it to your computer or Internet connection, plug inregular phone, and you're ready to go! Providers such as Vonage and AT&T CallAdvantage use this option.

• IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect withEthernet connector. A similar phone inworks is one that operates with Wi-Fi, which means that when you take your laptop tolocal coffee bar to access wireless Internet, you could also makelong distance call.

• Computer-to-computer iseasy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you only pay forsoftware. To use this method, you will need to download and installsoftware and be equipped withmicrophone, speakers,sound card andhigh-speed Internet connection such as DSL or cable. Aside fromsoftware,only fees are those for your monthly ISP.

You'll needhigh-speed Internet connection to use VoIP, such as DSL or Cable.

Most VoIP options are easy to install. Providers of ATA, for example, will usually send youadaptor you need when you sign up forservice. If you havestandard Internet set-up, you should be able to easily installadaptor and software yourself, and be on your way. The process is very simple and straightforward, and once installed,service is immediate (no waiting three-five business days for your phone service!). ConnectingIP phone is equally easy, and computer-to-computer simply requiresdownloading and installing of software.

Aboutauthor:
Andrew Kelly isTechnology Consultant who helps keep businesses atleading edge of technology.
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