By now, most of us have heard about VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and the possibility of making cheap if not free calls. Though some of us already know how this actually works, the general public has no idea on how to take advantage of VoIP systems. Basically, VoIP is done by implying internet technology to carry our voice across great distances. Here are the three most common implementations of VoIP:
PC to PC (Peer to Peer)
It might not seem to be very apparent to the common person but VoIP use is very prevalent via PC to PC connections. Almost all messenger applications like Skype, AIM, and Yahoo have their own version of a VoIP system to let their users talk to each other. Even if you do not prefer to be restricted to messenger applications, you can also find a lot of software whose sole function is VoIP. These are called “softphones”, a merger between software and phones. You can use softphones independent of messenger applications. As long as you have configured it right and your internet connection is reliable, you’re free to make phone calls to anyone who also uses VoIP. Calling to standard landlines though is a little bit complicated. You would need to subscribe to a company who switches your call to the standard phone line. Though these companies would charge you, it is quite minimal compared to the exorbitant prices that are charged to you whenever you call long distance.
ATA
The Second possible option is by using you regular telephone even if it is not digital. VoIP systems carry voice in a digital format since the internet is digital. This is achieved by attaching an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) between your traditional phone and your computer or your router. This is already a hardware solution so understandably these kinds of hardware come in VoIP packages that some companies provide. This usually means that you are already tied up to their service just like with traditional phone systems. So you better be careful in choosing the company you subscribe to since you might get slapped with hefty charges if you unsubscribe early. The general advantage of the hardware solution is the fact that it’s transparent. Meaning you don’t have to bother with anything else once you’ve got it working. You can use it just like you would use your ordinary telephone line.
IP Phone
The last option is via an IP phone. This is basically the equivalent of an ATA with a phone attached to it already. Though there seems to be no difference compared to just using an ATA, an IP phone captures voice signals in digital form already so there is no need for hardware that converts analog signals to digital signals. It might appear neater and sleeker compared to an ATA and regular phone combo but the disadvantage is that you are basically stuck with that phone since it’s a compact whole. IP phones have a connector that is the same as a LAN cable. This plugs directly to your router for transparent connections.
