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How to make cost-effective calls with VoIP
| VoIP is an innovative way to talk to relatives, friends and business partners around the world for less. If you haven't heard of this exciting new technology, here is an easy guide to acquaint you with the latest movement in the convenient communications revolution. What is VoIP? Voice over Internet Protocol, to give it its full title, is a technology that uses a broadband internet connection, rather than a traditional telephone line, to transmit voice conversations from one country to another. Calls can be made from a normal landline, or from a computer, to mobiles, landlines and computers almost anywhere in the world. How does VoIP work? Without getting too technical, VoIP represents an important shift in the way the internet works. Technologies known as Real-time Transmission Protocol (RTP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP) have been developed to allow your voice to be transmitted in real time. These systems have revolutionised the way we use the internet. Traditionally, it took minutes to transfer information online: by email for example. But thanks to these advances, sound can be sent and received immediately, making internet conversations not merely a possibility, but a daily occurrence. What are the advantages of VoIP? The chances are that you already have a broadband internet connection. If not, installing one means that you can use VoIP to make affordable calls, both international and domestic. You can dispense with phone cards and high landline rates, and get more out of your broadband at the same time. Can VoIP work for my business? In a word, yes. Many businesses are taking advantage of the competitive rates of VoIP by using their existing internet connection to enable all telephones to work via this new system. And because VoIP capability can be transported from home to the office, you need never be without the convenience of low priced Internet calls. Do I need any special equipment? You will need to buy a VoIP adapter. Alternatively, find one of the service providers that include this for free as part of a package. In any case, these are not expensive, and allow your regular landline telephone to send audio via the internet. If you also want to use your computer to make VoIP calls, check that it has an in-built microphone. Otherwise get hold of one from any good computer hardware store, and you're good to go. How much will VoIP cost me? Line rental and call costs per minute vary between networks, but the good news is that they are all on average far lower than landline rates. In addition to this, you are already paying a proportion of potential VoIP costs with your broadband connection, so why not make the most of your money and chat while you surf? |
About the Author
Costas Kariolis - Senior Director Online - UK & Canada. Vonage are leading VoIP (voice over IP) internet phone service providers. VoIP enables you to use your current high speed Internet Service and Phone to make VoIP Phone Calls using VoIP, whether Local or Long Distance.
For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Costas Kariolis Senior Director Online - UK & Canada
E-mail: theteam@vonage.com
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