What is VOIP ?

What is Voip?

Simply put, voip (Voice-over-Internet – protocol) is when you use the power and connectivity of the Internet to make and receive phone calls. 

 How does it work? 

VOIP uses a portion of a broadband internet connection, and digitally sends the voice messages in that portion.  You can use it to call regular land-line phone numbers, and regular land-lines can call your voip number.  VOIP connects with traditional phone lines all over the world. 

 What do I need to use voip services?

To use voip, you first need a high-speed internet connection.  Need broadband?  Click here to shop for the best deal in your area. 

 Then, you have a few options for what you use to make and receive calls. 

1. You can use a softphone, which is simply a software that you use on your computer.  For example, the X-10 softphone looks like a little phone on your screen, and you click on the buttons to make or receive calls, just like an actual physical phone (only it’s just on your computer screen).  (Click here for more information about Globalink's softphone.)
2. The next-least expensive option is to use an analog adapter.  This is a little box, which you connect with your regular traditional phone on one end, and hook it up with your high-speed internet connection on the other end.  You use your same phone just like before, only your calls are routed through your high-speed internet connection instead of the phone line.  (Click Here For Analog Adaptors)
3. The most hi-tech option is to purchase a special IP-phone, which you will plug into your high speed internet connection (rather than to a regular phone line).  These phones have great functionality that you won’t find in regular traditional analog phones. (Largest Selection of IP Phones Online at VoIP Supply)

 What are some of the benefits of VOIP?

1. Lower cost - the main reason that most people seek out voip is because it is a lot less expensive, particularly for international calls.
2. Flexibility – With voip, you can have a “local” phone number anywhere in the world, and make and receive calls from that number from anywhere that you are connected to the internet (with a high-speed connection.)  For example, you have a sister who is studying abroad in Paris, and you want her to be able to call you inexpensively.  You purchase a local phone number for Paris, and then she can call you as if you were a local call for her.  She dials your Paris number and reaches you in Boise, Idaho.
3.  Functionality – Businesses in particular like the great phone system options available with voip.  You can have one central phone number that links up with your satellite offices around the world.  Your offices call each other for free, you can call all your traveling salespeople for free, they can call and get their messages for free (when they take an adapter or IP phone with them and hook up with high speed internet)….you can see how everyone saves money.