What is VoIP?
14 May 2006
VoIP is basically a way to turn your computer into a telephone. VoIP stands for Voice over IP. It is also referred to as ip phone, net phone, web phone internet phone and broadband phone. It is the technology whereby your phone calls and faxes are transmitted digitally via the internet rather than down traditional copper telephone lines.
How does it work?
14 May 2006
VoIP works by digitalizing voice into data packets using an ADC (analog to digital converter), sending them and reconverting them to voice at destination using a DAC (digital to analog converter). The advantages are that the digital format is easier to control: it can be compressed, routed and it can be easily converted to a new format in the future; also digital signals are more noise tolerant than analog.
What hardware/software do I need to use it?
14 May 2006
At the very least, to use VoIP you need a broadband internet connection with at least 128kb upstream, this usually means a 512kb connection, a freely downloadable VoIP software client (Skype, Gizmo and others) and a mic/headset combo that plugs into your computer. A USB phone can be used instead, if you don't like using a headset.
Do I need any special equipment?
14 May 2006
You don't need special equipment, apart from the headset (or USB phone), if you just want to use a softphone while your computer is switched on.
However, in order to make a call with the computer switched off you will need an adapter that sits between your PC and your internet connection. Examples of these adapters are the Linksys PAP2 that comes free with Vonage or the Livebox that comes with Wanadoo. They are generally known as ATA.
Will it work if my computer is switched off?
14 May 2006
If you are using a softphone or USB phone, then no. However, you can buy an adapter which makes it possible to place VoIP calls even when your computer is switched off.
Can I talk to more than one person at a time?
14 May 2006
Yes. In fact it's a lot easier with VoIP than with the old PSTN system.
What happens if my internet connection goes down?
14 May 2006
Simple answer, no internet means no phone.
Is it true that you can't make emergency calls from a VoIP phone?
14 May 2006
That depends on your VoIP provider. Vonage does offer emergency services dialing. With Wanadoo, you can call UK emergency services (999 & 112), but they will automatically be routed to your land line as Wanadoo's service is sold as a second line package. On the other hand, with Skype at the moment, you cannot make emergency calls.
Can I keep my current phone number?
14 May 2006
You will need to check with individual VoIP providers. Some allow you to retain your current phone number, some don't. If they don't, you will be offered a choice of new phone numbers. One of the attractions of VoIP is that a person from, say London, could choose a New York based number. He could then take his phone adapter anywhere else in the world, plug it into a broadband connection and still be contacted using the same New York phone number. Plus, he can call another New York number at the local rate.
Can I receive incoming calls from landlines and mobiles?
14 May 2006
Yes. Most providers offer this as part of their basic package, the exception being Skype, who offer a free service but charge for their SkypeIn service.
Do I need to buy a new phone?
14 May 2006
No. You can start using VoIP with a headset and a software phone but this means that you can only make and receive calls when your computer is switched on.
Alternatively, you can get a SIP phone (VoIP phone) which looks like a normal analogue phone but you plug it directly into your internet connection or router.
You can use an existing analogue phone with VoIP by connecting it to an ATA which in turn connects to either your cable modem or your router.
How much are the setup costs?
14 May 2006
Anything from £20, for a cheap headset/SIP phone a starter account with a VoIP provider, to £200+ for a top-of-the-range, all singing and dancing set-up. Generally, the more features/flexibility you desire, the more costly it will be.
How much will I save on my phone bill?
14 May 2006
You can almost certainly cut the cost of your phone bills, some calls may even be free.
In many cases calls are only free if you are phoning someone who are using an VoIP service. This is possible as VoIP providers have peering relationships with each other.
If you make a lot of international calls it could be worth making them over the internet and getting the recipient to use VoIP too.
If you are phoning a landline or a mobile, you are likely, but not neccessarily, to be charged for the call.
Many providers have different packages which may include free calls to landlines and mobiles in the same country.
Do I still need my land line?
14 May 2006
No. VoIP requires only a broadband connection in order to work. If your current phone provider is also your broadband provider, you will have to keep your current broadband connection with them. On the other hand, if you currently have a land line and a cable broadband connection, then you could ditch your land line and have a VoIP phone attached to your internet connection.
What's the minimum connection needed?
14 May 2006
A broadband connection of around 128kbps upstream per call is recommended. The higher your bandwidth, the better the quality will be.
Can I use VoIP with my mobile phone?
14 May 2006
VoIP technology is becoming available on mobiles phones but until WiFi takes off at least in major cities worldwide, a mobile phone with VoIP capabilities are nothing more than a glorified DECT phone.
Will my old answerphone work with VoIP?
14 May 2006
Yes, but if your answering machine and phone are separate units you will need two FXS ports on your VoIP adapter or router in order to accomodate both devices. It's worth noting that Voicemail usually comes free, as do many other features like Caller ID, Call Waiting etc, when you sign up with a VoIP provider.