VoIP Solutions
VoIP Solutions
VoIP Solutions - A brief Overview
Voice over IP (VoIP) is a technology that allows voice traffic to be transmitted over a data network, such as the public internet. Using VoIP and, usually in conjunction with a broadband internet connection (cable modem or DSL), it is possible to use a wide range of equipment to make telephone calls over the net.
Using an adapter (also called ATA = Analoque Telephone Adapter), or a special IP Phone (Phone-to-Phone) or software (PC-to-Phone) the voice signal (see voip voice protocols) from your telephone or PC is converted into a digital signal (data packet) that travels over the internet and then converts the signal back at the other end so you can speak to anyone in the world with a regular phone number.
When placing an internet call using a phone with an adapter (ATA), you'll hear a dial tone and you dial just as you always have. VoIP may also allow you to make a call directly from a computer using a conventional telephone, a USB phone or a headset with a microphone.
Types of VoIP
Depending upon the type of VoIP service used, calls can be made only to other VoIP users or both VoIP users and regular phones. There are two main categories of VoIP services: Hardware-based and Software-based. Hardware services require a converter box that connects your traditional phone to the broadband modem or home router, and your computer does not have to be turned on to make and receive calls. Software VoIP works through your computer with a microphone and a headset or a usb phone.
Hardware-based Internet telephony
The most flexible application of VoIP requires only one additional piece of hardware, an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter). An ATA is an analog-to-digital converter which connects your traditional phone to your Internet connection. Most service providers include the ATA in their monthly VoIP packages, but some require you to rent or buy an ATA. In nearly every case (but not all) the adapter you use will be locked or password protected to correspond only with the service provider you have signed up with. There is however a tendency for smaller providers to offer the option of you bringing your own device (BYOD).
A second hardware-based option is an IP phone, which integrates an ATA. An IP Phone is similar in appearance to a standard telephone but includes a built-in adapter. The IP phone connects directly to the router with a standard RJ-45 Ethernet connector. These phones are available in three different standards: MGCP (Media Gateway Control Protocol), H.323, and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol). SIP phones are the way to go, and these are quickly becoming the standard.
Unfortunately, SIP phones are expensive; a decent model starts at about $150. On the positive side, no computer or software is needed to use an IP phone, as the only requirement is a broadband Internet connection (recommended 90kpbs). However, testers say that voice quality is not nearly as good as using a VoIP service through a regular phone. A few services, such as iConnectHere, offer an IP phone for use with their services for roughly $40. Although SIP phones are bound to improve as the technology matures and more competition enters the market, using a regular phone with an ATA is a better and less expensive solution.
Software-based Internet telephony
Software-based VoIP (Softphone) works a little differently, and if you've ever tried Microsoft NetMeeting or another instant-messaging program with voice capabilities, it will sound familiar. The most basic and least expensive software voip solution allows two people with the same installed software to call each other over the Internet. With almost all solution providers these "in-network" calls are for free. Rather than using a telephone, callers use speakers and a microphone connected to their computer or an inexpensive USB phone. Users can set up a phone book for one-click calls to other users.
In addition, software-based solutions such as Skype also allow for users to make calls through their computers to those with regular phones. Calls from and to the U.S. and to most of Europe, Scandinavia, Argentina and Australia cost around US$0.02 per minute.
Through the use of low-cost or free software and a few additional items such as sound card, microphone, and speakers, software-based VoIP is an inexpensive option. There are a few catches though. Your PC must remain on to make or receive calls, and free calls can only be made to and from people with the same software. There is however the tendency in the industry of some SIP based providers joining forces and allowing you to make free calls to other VoIP solution providers by just dialing a specific prefix to the phone number. This tendency is expected to increase. Calling people with regular phones costs extra and those people will not be able to call you. Testers say software-based VoIP is improving significantly but voice quality doesn't equal that of hardware-based VoIP yet.
