|
|
 |
 |
About VoIP
|
VoIP really started to be adopted by
millions of people when Internet-based
services like Skype started offered free
software downloads that allow you to make
free computer-to-computer calls to other
people who have also downloaded the software
(kind of the way that Instant Messaging
works).
For these software-based services you need a
microphone and speaker connected to your
computer, and the other party needs to be at
their computer to take your call.
The industry has moved quickly to develop
new equipment and telephone handsets that
convert those 'software only' services into
use with regular telephones.
The tech-savvy online community has widely
adopted these free software-based services,
but the mass market is more likely to use
calling services that function through
standard telephone handsets.
Several companies have already developed
‘Wi-Fi’ based VoIP services that will allow
you to make free or low cost Internet calls
from hotspots like Starbucks.
VoIP product and service configurations
already exist for making and receiving calls
via:
|
• |
Your desktop computer |
|
• |
Your laptop while mobile |
|
• |
Your regular phone at home |
| • |
Your cordless phone |
| • |
Or by purchasing a specially
designed VoIP telephone |
The type of product configuration that you
choose depends on your individual needs.
Visit
Types of VoIP for more detailed
information on these solutions and the
advantages that each offers.
In summary, your choices in equipment to get
started are:
| A) |
VoIP software if you are happy
making and receiving calls only via
your PC, |
| B) |
If you want to make and receive
calls through your regular
telephone, a VoIP telephone Adapter
will connect your phone to the
Internet via your high speed modem, |
| C) |
A VoIP-designed phone
automatically connects you to the
Internet without the need for an
Adapter, but may not have the
physical design and features that
you are used to with your own phone. |
Most Service Providers offer some
combination of this equipment free (or
included within a first month ‘Activation
Fee’ when you sign up).
Click
here to learn more about the choices of
Calling Plans that are available.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
