VOIP - Voice Over Internet Protocol

VOIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol is the wave of the future. If you aren't using it now, you probably will be in the future. More importantly, why aren't you using it? VOIP allows audio signals to be transferred into a data signal. The data signals are sent over the Internet, so in essence you can make phone calls over your computer using your Internet connection. For the service to work at its most efficient it is advised that you have a high-speed Internet connection, such as DSL, cable or satellite. There are even telephones available to use with VOIP just like a regular phone. The best part is it costs much less than using your local phone company. VOIP provides many of the same services that your current telephone company offers. Finding VOIP service to fit your needs is easy. Some of the services offer mobile service as well.

VOIP Quality of Service

If you don't choose your VOIP service carefully, you might be disappointed. The quality of service can vary greatly from provider to provider. When choosing a VOIP service ensure that the company offers their service through a real time network. This is important to reduce jitter and voice echo. To improve quality of service many VOIP's are moving their systems from real time networks to multi-protocol label switching with packet schedulers. In addition, many VOIP's have electronic monitoring capabilities that monitor call quality and adjust traffic to improve the transfer and reduce jitter and voice echo. Another important issue with VOIP is the 911 issue. The FCC doesn't regulate VOIP like the local and long distance phone companies. You will want to ensure that your VOIP offers access to 911 or enhanced 911. Some VOIP's do not offer 911 service, but since the FCC's ruling in early 2005, many are providing enhanced 911, which is operated through a call-center and is set-up to automatically transfer your emergency call to the proper authorities.