The VOIP Provider Guide

You may be wondering what the best method of using VOIP is, and what kit you will need to get started.  Below are the 3 most common options for accessing VOIP, along with a little information on how they work: 

PC to PC
This method of accessing VOIP provides a wealth of low-cost options for making calls over short or long distances.  By simply downloading the necessary software from a VOIP Provider, which may carry a small cost, you then have access to free calls (usually to other users of the same service) or low cost calls (to everyone else) through the use of a microphone / headset through your PC sound card.  The only other ongoing charge to pay is for your Broadband connection through your ISP. 

IP Phone
Many new products have emerged to target the growing VOIP market, and the IP Phone is the plug-and-play solution to making calls over the Internet.  These phones look and feel just like a normal analogue phone, but have an Ethernet connection in place of the usual RJ-11 telephone jack.  This enables you to plug the IP Phone directly into your Broadband router to access the service.  Many wireless phones with cradles are making VOIP calling more convenient and some will enable you to call on the move, providing you are in range of a WiFi hotspot; a total solution for your home, business and mobile needs. 

ATA’s
The simplest way for most people to get into using VOIP with the least amount of hassle is by using an Analogue Telephone Adapter, which acts as a bridge between your existing analogue phone and your PC or Broadband Internet connection.  The Adapter converts your voice signals (in analogue form) into digital data, for transmission over the Internet (literally “Voice Over Internet Protocol”).  Many service providers offer ATA’s as part of their VOIP package, as it represents the smallest “leap of faith” on the part of their customers.  By using your existing phone, you are less concerned with the more technical elements of what goes on in the background. 

As with any VOIP solution, consider how you will use the service before deciding which access method best suits your needs. 

This entry was posted on Friday, June 1st, 2007 at 9:09 am and is filed under VOIP Advice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.