VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), or simply IP telephony, is the routing of conversations over the Internet or any IP-based network instead of over the conventional telephone line. Voice data is transmitted using a packet switched network instead of dedicated circuit switched telephone transmission lines. The set of rules or protocols that are needed to transport voice data over the Internet are commonly called VoIP protocols. They allow the user to make and receive calls from anywhere in the world.
An IP phone is used to convert voice to IP packets and vice versa for transmission. The phone has an adapter that connects to a router that is in turn connected to a broadband Internet connection line. You can also make calls using your PC, if you have an IP phone or softphone installed.
The proliferation of operators has opened the way to extremely high competition in this field. Their services can be availed from as low as $20 per month, and the rates increase with the addition of certain specifications. There are some qualities to determine what is the best IP telephony service. First of all, calls must be as clear as those made from a landline. Second, the service must be reliable, which means that all calls must go through. Third, the phone must be portable and have international dialing and number selection capabilities.
BroadVoice Internet Phone, AT&T Call Vantage, Verizon’s ?Voice Wing? and Vonage are some of the popular VoIP services. Various features such as easy-to-use web interfaces, email notification features, good sound quality, voicemail, speed dial, fax, directory assistance, three-way calling, first-rate customer and technical support, email retrieval line and ring capability of various phones have popularized these services.
VoIP service is also available at no cost. One of these programs is Skype, which allows you to make free VoIP calls through your PC. This service is also provided by Yahoo Messenger and Google voice-enabled chat. These services are very popular due to their high reliability.