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Background
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology for communicating using
“Internet protocol” instead of traditional analog systems. Some VoIP services
need only a regular phone connection, while others allow you to make telephone
calls using an Internet connection instead. Some VoIP services may allow you
only to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to
call any telephone number - including local, long distance, wireless, and
international numbers.
What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?
You may need an Internet connection, and,
for many types of VoIP calls, you need a broadband Internet connection.
Depending on the VoIP service you purchase, you may need a computer, a special
VoIP telephone, or a regular telephone with an adapter. If you are calling a
regular telephone number, the person you are calling does not need any special
equipment, just a telephone.
How Do I Use My VoIP Service?
If you use a VoIP telephone or regular telephone, you place and receive calls
much like you do with regular telephone service. If you use VoIP with your
computer, a telephone icon usually appears on your computer screen. Clicking the
icon allows you to dial numbers from a pad, or dial a call by clicking on a
contact’s pre-programmed name and number. You will then hear a ring just like
any other call. Computer-based VoIP services have a variety of ways for
notifying you that you have an incoming call.
Here are the top reasons why companies want to adopt VoIP:
Reason Percentage Lower telecommunications costs 66% Desire to merge voice and data networks 43% Obtain a platform for one-stop communications in two or more areas 41% Increase collaboration benefits in two or more areas 36% Ease of management 31% Scalability 24%