VoIP - A Cheaper, Easier Way to Call Anyone Anywhere

With the cost of living constantly on the rise, cutting down on some basic needs can go a long way. One such staple need is the need for communication- in this case, the use of telephones. With a local phone call, average rates can range from $0.9 to $1per minute. With international phone calls, it's significantly higher. Yes, there is always email, texting, and other forms of communication, but we can't deny the fact that hearing a person's voice on the phone beats reading hundreds of text messages and punching ten or so buttons just to reply with a sentence or two. So what can an average person do to save money without sacrificing the quality and convenience of a simple phone call? The answer is, Voice over Internet Protocol, also known as VOIP.

Voice over Internet Protocol, although it sounds complicated, is pretty simple. It's just like a normal phone call, but in this case, instead of using the telephone line, you will be using the Internet as your phone line. Some examples would be Magic Jack, Comcast and Skype. Consequently, there are different kinds of VoIP services. Magic Jack allows users to call both users and non-users of the product. This means, you can call a landline telephone with the use of the Magic Jack device, and you can also call a VoIP "telephone" through the device. Skype on the other hand, will only allow the user to call others who are Skype users as well.

Fact: Most VoIP services are free. It all sounds too good to be true doesn't it? This is because the cost of maintaining VoIP services is virtually minimal. First, it converts the user's voice into digital signals that travel through the Internet. This signal would be converted into what signal it needs to be. For example, the user decides to call a landline phone from his or her computer. The VoIP service will then convert the signal into a regular phone signal, so it's as if you're calling from a regular phone number. If you're lucky you can even make a phone without the hassles of modems and wires and such- if your phone or laptop is WiFi ready and you're at a hotspot, then you can make use of the VoIP services wirelessly.

To avail of VoIP services, there are just a few basic requirements. First, a broadband (or a high speed Internet) connection that can be via a cable modem or DSL, or a local area network should be available. Second, a computer, specialized phone or an adaptor is needed. The device should be compatible with the VoIP service, because some services are only compatible with a VoIP phone, or only compatible with computers.

Since most VoIP services are free, it doesn't really matter if you call locally or if it's a long distance call, just as long as you meet all the requirements that the VoIP service requires. Some providers allow the user to select an area code different from the area from which the phone call originated from. However, some providers still charge for their services, and hence the rule still applies: charges depend on the area code and services incurred by the user. There would be a flat rate, much similar to the normal phone line, but significantly cheaper and more efficient.

Although VoIP is essentially a cheaper and better alternative than the normal phone line, there are still disadvantages in using VoIP. If there are power outages, the Internet would not be available, hence the services of the provider will also be unavailable. This is a very significant disadvantage because if there were to be an emergency, a person could always use the phone line even if there is a power outage. But if the person only relied on VoIP services, then it would clearly be a hassle. All in all, VoIP is a good alternative to the normal phone lines, but it would be wise not to rely solely on it.

Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of voip service.

For more advice and information on voip service, just click on the link.

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VoIP - Replacing Long Distance Calls

The age of costly long distance phone calls are now history. With the creation of new modes of communication, you now have the cheaper choice of using these advanced technologies to complete a phone call abroad. Most businesses have made use of the Voice over Internet Protocol as a means of conducting phone calls to their sub offices in various parts of the country or around the globe.

The traditional phone line limits your use of the phone in certain situations. With so much concern about the high costs of long distance calls, you tend to limit your conversations to a minimum. Thus, you often forget the essential details that must be done to complete the task or project that is important to the business or personal affairs.

Voice over Internet Protocol is defined by many as the new way to make long distance calls. It is described as the new generation of communications that uses the Internet to connect to another party. Initially, the Internet was not created for any audio conversations and communications. It was designed at first, to have communications method by way of private messages and chats. However, as the demand for the creation of audio aids to make conversations more sustainable, engineers devised a method that will service people all over the world.

Hence, Voice over Internet Protocols came into being. Many people describe that the act of reading instructions on a printed screen is different from actually hearing them and listening to it word by word. In fact, many have claimed that with listening, you get the real feeling and emotions of the conversation that will inspire you to complete the task. Communicating verbally will ensure that the receiving end person of the conversation will recognize the importance of the project and business that is assigned to them.

VoIP communications is commercially available nowadays. The market itself is teeming with a large array of manufacturers that offer their own brand of VoIP communications module to complete the task. Some of the most common systems use hardware devices that need to be installed in the personal computer to make the function better. Other times, all it requires is to download software programs online that will enable the user to make the call.

The most common mode of communication is the Skype. The software is easily downloadable online and is initially free. The system is considered by many as the most successful mode of Voice over Internet Protocol programs. It is used by millions of people worldwide and boasts of clear and crisp Skype to Skype phone calls.

As an added feature to the system, the program created the new trend of video calling. This allows the user to converse with another person from another part of the globe and view them through a webcam. Thus, it imitates a real live conversation that is almost face to face. With these newer models and ways to make a conversation, you will be saving thousands of dollars when it comes to long distance phone calls. All it takes is just a download and you will be on your way to making long distance calls every hour every day.

Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of voip service.

For more advice and information on voip service, just click on the link.

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VoIP - Replacing Long Distance Calls

The age of costly long distance phone calls are now history. With the creation of new modes of communication, you now have the cheaper choice of using these advanced technologies to complete a phone call abroad. Most businesses have made use of the Voice over Internet Protocol as a means of conducting phone calls to their sub offices in various parts of the country or around the globe.

The traditional phone line limits your use of the phone in certain situations. With so much concern about the high costs of long distance calls, you tend to limit your conversations to a minimum. Thus, you often forget the essential details that must be done to complete the task or project that is important to the business or personal affairs.

Voice over Internet Protocol is defined by many as the new way to make long distance calls. It is described as the new generation of communications that uses the Internet to connect to another party. Initially, the Internet was not created for any audio conversations and communications. It was designed at first, to have communications method by way of private messages and chats. However, as the demand for the creation of audio aids to make conversations more sustainable, engineers devised a method that will service people all over the world.

Hence, Voice over Internet Protocols came into being. Many people describe that the act of reading instructions on a printed screen is different from actually hearing them and listening to it word by word. In fact, many have claimed that with listening, you get the real feeling and emotions of the conversation that will inspire you to complete the task. Communicating verbally will ensure that the receiving end person of the conversation will recognize the importance of the project and business that is assigned to them.

VoIP communications is commercially available nowadays. The market itself is teeming with a large array of manufacturers that offer their own brand of VoIP communications module to complete the task. Some of the most common systems use hardware devices that need to be installed in the personal computer to make the function better. Other times, all it requires is to download software programs online that will enable the user to make the call.

The most common mode of communication is the Skype. The software is easily downloadable online and is initially free. The system is considered by many as the most successful mode of Voice over Internet Protocol programs. It is used by millions of people worldwide and boasts of clear and crisp Skype to Skype phone calls.

As an added feature to the system, the program created the new trend of video calling. This allows the user to converse with another person from another part of the globe and view them through a webcam. Thus, it imitates a real live conversation that is almost face to face. With these newer models and ways to make a conversation, you will be saving thousands of dollars when it comes to long distance phone calls. All it takes is just a download and you will be on your way to making long distance calls every hour every day.

Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of voip service.

For more advice and information on voip service, just click on the link.

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VoIP - Who's the Best Provider?

It is a known fact that Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is the cheaper alternative to traditional phone lines. It costs less, and it is more versatile in such a way that it can communicate with both other VoIP users and even the traditional phone lines themselves. However, with so many Voice over Internet Protocol providers readily available, how can the average person determine which VoIP provider best suits his or her needs? How can the consumer choose between so many VoIP providers that offer more or less the same price range with the same services, maintenance cost, customer service, quality of phone calls and features?

First of all, there are many factors that have to be considered when you're looking for the best VoIP provider. One of these is how easy it is to sign-up for the services of the provider. This includes start-up, activation and shipping costs, as well as monthly fees, quality of phone calls, other features included in the package, quality of customer service, how easy it is to set it up, money back guarantees, and of course, termination fees or penalties.

Considering all of the factors stated above, here is a list of the top five Voice over Internet Protocol providers. In number five is VoIP.com. It is a website that offers great service at a great price. It has one of the easiest sign up pages, and it also has great enhanced telephone features included. The user is only charged $199 per year for unlimited local and long distance calls. Number four is Lingo, which is known as a very respectable service provider. They only charge $19.95 per month for unlimited local and long distance calls not only for the United States and Canada but for Europe as well. Although Lingo's start up package is slightly higher compared to others, it is safe to say that it will be worth it.

In number three is Vonage. Vonage has the most experience in the VoIP world, with over one million customers as of March 2005. Although it is a little more expensive than some other providers with a rate of $24.95 per month, the call quality offered by Vonage is as excellent as their customer service. Number two is Packet8, which offers the lowest monthly fee of only $19.95 per month. In number one is ViaTalk, the least expensive of all services to date. The monthly fee is only $16.58 per month, and the quality of calls is good, and the customer service is extraordinary.

Out of the five Voice over Internet Protocol providers, ViaTalk came out first because, as the factors show, it ranked first with how easy it is to sign-up. Aside from this, ViaTalk had the least start-up, activation, shipping and monthly costs. Furthermore, it had one of the least expensive yearly package of only $199 per year. It also had the best quality of phone calls, and the widest range of features, and all in all, the ViaTalk package was a great deal.

Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of voip service.

For more advice and information on top voip service, just click on the link.

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Virtual PBX - Comprehensive PBX Telephony Features

A virtual PBX phone system with its refined PBX telephony features is a comprehensive telecommunication option for small business organizations aspiring to generate a credible business image.

Sophisticated PBX Telephony Features help Efficient Call Management

To help small businesses and solo entrepreneurs manage business calls in a professional style, the virtual PBX phone system is integrated with state-of-the-art call handling features that are identical to those of expensive communication systems in big companies. These include automatic call distribution, auto attendant, find-me/follow-me call forwarding, voice to email, fax to email, caller identity, call waiting, music on hold and more.

Calls to your business office are answered by the auto attendant, functioning as the live receptionist with recorded reception messages. To instantly route calls to appropriate departments, callers are provided with menu options such as dial-by-name, dial-by-extension and more. It manages several calls incoming together with greater efficiency and executes call forwarding without transmitting traditional busy tones. Thus the system eliminates the need for additional call answering personnel in your office.

Keep in Touch with Customers and Business Associates

By utilizing the high-end call forwarding option of virtual PBX, calls to your primary business numbers can be transferred to your cell phones or residential landlines set as extensions. This enables your business to be conveniently managed from desired locations, while giving callers the impression that you are answering from your corporate office. Unanswered calls are straightaway forwarded to the voicemail system, prompting callers to place voice messages. Voice messages are forwarded to your email account as audio file attachments so that you can provide immediate responses to the queries of your customers even while you are traveling. New message arrivals are promptly alerted on your cell phone. Thus the system ensures that not a single call or message from your customers is overlooked.

Not Necessary to Make Hardware Purchase

To enjoy the comprehensive features of the virtual PBX telephone system, users are not required to purchase or install any expensive on-site hardware. Service providers maintain all the equipment at their sites. PBX functions are offered through a hosted server using broadband Internet or telephone networks at reasonable monthly rents.

Virtual PBX - AccessDirect is a leading provider of feature rich PBX phone system. They also provide voice mail, toll-free and local phone numbers, fax-to-email service, and more.

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VOIP - A Very Useful Innovation

VOIP is an acronym for "Voice Over Internet Protocol" which refers to as the practice of sending telephone conversations across an IP network such as The Internet. There is an opportunity to bring about significant change in the way that people communicate. Before, there are no communications for the people around the world until the technology of the telephone. And now there is this new amazing technology, VOIP, that is being used by everyone to communicate with others around the world easily. Furthermore, this becomes popular largely because of the cost advantages for the consumers over the traditional telephone networks. You just need an Internet connection, a computer, a speaker and a microphone to make this work. Most of the people around the world is already using this for they can easily communicate and connect to others in this century.

The Voice over internet protocol can also be called as Internet Telephony because it works through various Internet networks. When you are making a VOIP calls, the conversation of analog data into digital happens to make things smoother for the network and the system of the internet process. Although each system has a different languages, they still understand and jive with the other.

In a much closer and detailed look, with the aid of networks in the Internet Protocols internet telephony was achieved- a phone service from your internet connection that provides a long-distance communication anywhere around the world by simply using the Internet. Just imagine how easy the business would be. Usage of VoIP had become the latest norms of most the telecommunication providers. VoIP even made education possible in the internet; job applications are even done using VoIP systems.

There are various forms and tools for Voice Over Internet Protocol.Smart phone is the simplest tool for calling overseas. And the another one is the "Skype" if you have an Internet connection. This is a program that offers free service such as making free calls all over the world with or without a video. The most popular VoIP sytems that are widely use are the "SKYPE" or Yahoo Messenger and MSN. Providing not just calls, but as well as video communication. This is a very advantage to all the business company in the world. The making of VoIP system made time a minor issue in terms of communication simply because you don't have to worry about your bills growing as you are communicating with your business associates. This also provide better understanding in the communication since, since clarifications, and questions could easily be asked.

Nowadays, we can say that many of the companies are much prepared in using this Voice Over Internet Protocol specially when they are working with others around the world. They just used their old fashioned telephone providers in making some local calls. By using VOIP, they can save a lot of money by avoiding their monthly telephone charges.They can also easily and clearly negotiate with others if they can communicate through this great and flexible innovation of the 21st century.

Tina L. Douglas is a well established author on the topic of voip service.

For more advice and information on voip service, just click on the link.

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Small Office PBX Phone System With Powerful Capabilities

By equipping your small business office with a PBX phone system incorporated with powerful communication capabilities, customer calls can be handled in a professional manner, thereby enhancing your corporate image. This phone system provides small businesses and home offices with an efficient telecommunication system at low cost.

High-End Communication Capabilities

To help small businesses communicate effectively with their customers, PBX phone systems are provided with stylish call handling features that are found in costly telephone systems maintained by big companies. These include automatic call distribution, call forwarding, voice to email, call conferencing, call waiting, fax to email, music on hold, caller ID and more.

Incoming calls are attended by the virtual receptionist auto attendant with recorded business greetings. Callers are presented with a list of options including dial-by-name, dial-by-extension and so on. Based on the choice made by the caller, calls are transferred to the right destinations. This system skillfully manages several calls coming in simultaneously and performs call routing without sending out connection busy signals. Thus the system eliminates the need for call answering personnel in your office.

Powerful Capabilities ensure Increased Flexibility

Through the powerful find-me/follow-me call forwarding option, calls to main business numbers can be answered on your cell phone or other landlines assigned as extensions. This feature offers your workforce the flexibility to work from preferred sites, and this significantly improves their efficiency and business productivity. Calls that are not answered are instantly transferred to the voicemail system, enabling callers to place voice messages. These messages are also forwarded to your e-mail account as audio file attachments, and hence quick responses can be provided for customer queries even while traveling. All these communication capabilities helps you to concentrate on core business functions without worrying about missed calls or messages from potential clients.

PBX Features at Reasonable Charges

To utilize the powerful capabilities of PBX phone systems, it is not necessary to set up costly premise-based hardware. The service providers maintain the required equipment at their site and PBX functionalities are offered using broadband Internet or telephone networks at reasonable monthly rents.

PBX Phone System - AccessDirect is a well established telecommunication firm, providing hosted small business phone systems for small as well as home businesses. They also provide voice mail, toll-free and local phone numbers, fax-to-email service, and more.

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Reduce VoIP Network Downtime With Improved Core Network Services

When the IT staff plan for upgrades, especially a VoIP deployment, a lot of attention is focused on servers, applications, switches, routers, and network security. Almost no attention is paid to the core network services that allow users to access all these wonderful systems, and are in fact essential for VoIP to even work at all!

If users are unable to access the applications that they need over the network, or if customers are unable to access the Internet-based Web services or applications that they need, all business transactions come to an immediate screeching halt. Since application access is so important, it is worthwhile to look at how to make sure everything in the system works reliably.

There are four core network services that have to be up and running for users to be able to access their applications. These are:

1. DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. This service is what hands the user an IP address on the internal network when they connect. No network communication can take place without having an IP address, as well as the other information that the DHCP service provides, which is a default route and the IP addresses of the DNS servers. What most people don't know, is that usually the DHCP service is provided by a non-redundant Windows server, or by a router that provides little visibility into the operation of the service. DHCP is essential for VoIP systems.

2. DNS stands for Domain Name Service. This service is what translates easy to remember names on the network, like a URL in a browser, to the IP addresses that the applications running on computers require. Without DNS, any network-based applications cannot be used. DNS is usually provided centrally by redundant windows servers, and externally by multiple small linux boxes running BIND. Unfortunately, sometimes the Windows DNS service has stability issues, and it is tedious and error prone to update the BIND applications on the Linux boxes.

3. NTP stands for Network Time Protocol. There are many applications that require proper time on the servers and workstations, especially SIP-based voice applications and network security applications. NTP is in many cases served from redundant windows servers.

4. IPAM stands for IP Address Management. It is important to have an overall IP address management method in order to ensure that DHCP and DNS are working properly. Entire new subnets are added in a VoIP deployment, so this is especially important then.

As you can see, high availability core network services are essential to the proper operation of everything on the network, and especially VoIP. In your next upgrade planning cycle, it is worthwhile to look at improving the availability of the core network services of DHCP, DNS, NTP, and IPAM.

Find out more about VoIP and Networking.

Great articles from voice, security, and network engineers that are in the field doing designs and deployments on a daily basis.

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Mobile Broadband Providers Urged to Support VoIP

Telecommunications is a multi-billion pound industry. Almost everyone now has a mobile phone in his or her pocket. Our love affair with technology in the 21st Century has seen the public embrace every new piece of 'smart' tech, giving us all instant communications, no matter where in the world we are. But experts are concerned that mobile providers may be holding back on incorporating the very latest tech into their provisions - mobile VoIP.

Massive potential

The VoIP system has been up and running for at least 15 years, and for many business and domestic customers it provides them with cheap phone calls to both local and international numbers. The benefits of VoIP have been proven in the commercial sector, but mobile users have until now seemingly been left out of the equation. Which is strange when you consider that the mobile VoIP companies who are providing their customers with this option are forecasting £21billion in potential revenue by 2015.

This is an astonishing prediction, but if mobile VoIP does become an accepted part of mobile telephony packages, it is perfectly achievable. In 2008 mobile VoIP companies had already generated £422million. Factoring in the speed with which mobile technology grows, the £21billion forecast suddenly seems much less surprising than at first glance.

But despite this massive potential for growth, many mobile phone providers still seem reluctant to give up their flat rate mobile data pricing policies. Surveys have shown that almost 70% of ISP providers in Europe either prohibit or restrict the use of VoIP over their mobile broadband networks. For customers tied into contracts with providers, this means that they could be missing out on cheap calls from their mobiles purely because of internal company policy.

Complementary technology

The introduction of smart phones that can link in to Wi-Fi or mobile broadband connections means that anyone with this complementary technology can take advantage of cheap phone calls via VoIP. In fact, the smart phone providers seem to be far more pro-active in their incorporation of VoIP as many, including the all-conquering Apple iPhone come with features that specifically allow customers to utilise VoIP services through either mobile broadband or Wi-Fi facilities. So despite user demand, the availability of cutting edge technology and the potential for massive revenue, why are some providers still reluctant to embrace VoIP?

The argument put forward by reluctant providers is that VoIP does not offer the same quality or reliability when compared to services provided by the GSM network. Whilst it may be true that 15 years ago, the earliest versions of VoIP were often susceptible to loss of connection and poor sound quality, this actually had far more to do with sub-standard microphones fitted into PCs and unstable broadband connections.

The advent of fibre-optics, faster and more reliable broadband connections and superior quality hardware in the form of smart phones renders this argument moot. It almost seems that vendors are reluctant to embrace VoIP because it may mean initially a drop in call revenue. However in the longer term, providers will see a rise in revenue as more people use VoIP to make cheap phone calls from their mobiles.

We love to talk to each other. If providers make it cheaper, it naturally follows that we'll use the system more. Those providers who do not realise just how revolutionary mobile VoIP is and how much of an influence it will have on telephony over the next five years will be missing out on a potential revenue bonanza. And their customers will be missing out on cheap calls. That could be a disastrous combination for providers who do not take a more positive attitude towards VoIP.

Costas Kariolis - Senior Director Online of Vonage UK. Vonage are leading VoIP (Voice over IP) providers for home & small business users. Offering unlimited and cheap calls to India and many other country landlines via an internet phone service for a set monthly fee.

For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Costas Kariolis
Senior Director Online - UK & Canada
E-mail: theteam@vonage.com

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Switch Your Landline to Make Cheaper Landline Calls, But Have You Considered a VoIP Landline?

In an age where its easy to go online and compare telephony providers with just a click of a mouse button, more savvy consumers are switching from their traditional suppliers to cheaper alternatives. For customers looking for a second phone line but without all the added charges, options have been, until recently, limited.

But those limited options have just got much wider, thanks to the modern revolution in telephony services - VoIP. VoIP (or Voice over Internet Protocol) is the next generation in home phone services - and thanks to a computer literate society is taking off in a big way.

VoIP utilises your home broadband connection to send 'packets' of data to the receiver, where it is reorganised back into an audio file. The technology isn't new - VoIP has been around for over 15 years but early versions, which were exclusively PC-to-PC based, suffered from poor sound quality and often decidedly dodgy connections.

However, modern VoIP is a world away from those early days, and now any home with a broadband connection can incorporate VoIP as a 'piggyback' service. And it could save you a lot of money, particularly if you make calls overseas on a regular basis.

VoIP - how it works

As long as you have access to a broadband connection, a VoIP adapter and a regular handset, you can switch to VoIP. Because VoIP does not depend on a traditional phone line system, if you decide to move home (even abroad), you can keep the same number because VoIP is a portable system. If you have a broadband and a landline package from a cable supplier, switching to VoIP could save you money straight away. As VoIP uses your broadband connection, you will no longer need a landline connection, so that you could cancel part of your package without losing your home telephone service. If you have ASDL broadband, then the two services are tied together. But it could still save you money, again particularly if you regularly call overseas.

By choosing a VoIP user package that guarantees you cheaper calls to your selected areas, you could reserve use of your regular landline service for cheap local calls and only make international calls on your VoIP set-up. If you were intending to pay for a second phone line, this could be a much cheaper option, allowing you to make international calls and even calls to mobile phones for a fraction of the cost.

VoIP - the new kid on the block

In 2008, Ofcom released a report suggesting that over 73% of consumers had never considered switching their landline supplier. Now, thanks to the explosion of comparison sites and a higher public profile for VoIP, that is starting to change. In a period of financial uncertainty, home utilities bills are coming under much closer scrutiny as people try to cut costs and save money on their household expenses. That shouldn't mean losing touch with loved ones overseas because you're worried about the cost of phone calls.

By switching to VoIP for your home phone service, you can stay in touch with friends and family and not have to worry about huge bills at the end of every month. It's quick, it's simple to do, and with VoIP providers offering more flexible and bespoke packages, it's easy to find a package that suits you. The age of the monolithic telephony companies dominating the communications landscape is over. VoIP is the new kid on the block, and that new kid has a lot to offer those looking to cut the costs of their phone bills.

Costas Kariolis - Senior Director Online of Vonage UK. Vonage are leading VoIP (Voice over IP) providers for home & small business users. Offering unlimited and cheap calls to India and many other country landlines via an internet phone service for a set monthly fee.

For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Costas Kariolis
Senior Director Online - UK & Canada
E-mail: theteam@vonage.com

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How to Configure Quality of Service (QoS) On Your VoIP Applications

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is rapidly replacing landlines for delivering phone calls to homes and businesses. Common residential home VoIP providers include Vonage, Skype and now Google Voice. Businesses are replacing their now antiquated digital systems with providers delivering services called Hosted PBX, Hosted VoIP, IP PBX, Virtual PBX and many more. If you have plans to implement or have already implemented VoIP, you should review your network for Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization.

VoIP voice quality problems can have many causes. Missing or inadequate voice prioritization or QoS is a primary source of VoIP problems. This article provides some background on where QoS needs to be enforced in the network and gives an explanation on what needs to be done.

QoS provides priority to VoIP packets at network choke points. The most common network choke point, for most homes and businesses, is where the data traffic transitions from the Local Area Network (LAN) to the Internet. The LAN can be running at speeds of 10Mb to 100Mb (million bits per second) or more. DSL and cable Internet services may have speeds out to the Internet as low as 256Kb (thousand bits per second). In essence, the data is transitioning from a 10 lane superhighway to a 1 lane road. As VoIP is very sensitive to delays, it must not wait for its turn to enter the 1 lane road, your Internet connection.

QoS is put into effect by a router that examines each packet and ships specific ones to the head of the line. QoS can be accomplished through Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) or Differentiated Service Code Point (DSCP) inside the Type of Service field for IPv4 or Traffic Class Octet in IPv6. For those familiar with the 7 layers of the network, VLAN operates in layer 2 and DSCP is layer 3.

VLAN

A VLAN is a virtual subnet that creates smaller broadcast domains within the LAN to ensure efficient use of bandwidth. For example, your VoIP telephones can be grouped together in one VLAN and your computers into another. Separate voice and data VLANs can protect VoIP traffic from service disruptions caused by virus or worm activity because Ethernet switches may not bridge IP traffic between VLANs.

The data VLAN carrying general traffic to the Internet is given the lowest priority. The voice VLAN is given the highest priority.

DSCP

DSCP relies on packets being classified and marked as belonging to a specific class. DSCP aware routers implement Per Hop Behaviors (PHBs), which implement packet forwarding mechanisms with each class of traffic. DSCP is the primary protocol routers use to provide different levels of service.

Although a network can implement up to 64 different classes of traffic, certain encodings in the DSCP field are recommended. Most networks use the commonly defined PHBs of default, Expedited Forwarding (EF), Assured Forwarding (AF) and Class Selector. The EF PHB is for applications that require low delay, low jitter and low packet loss which makes it suitable for VoIP, video and other realtime services.

The primary disadvantage of DSCP is any application can mark the EF bit and compete with your network's mission critical traffic. For example, your company may use a Virtual PBX instead of a traditional telephone system. Your calls to the Public Switched Telephone Network must transverse the Internet with low delay, jitter and packet loss. A router between the LAN and Internet gives packets marked with EF priority out to the Internet. Employees within your company may use personal Skype, Google Voice or other video services which may mark the EF bit as well and compete with your mission critical VoIP traffic. This problem is solved by certain routers that can inspect each packet and only keep the EF bit set for packets destined to specific IP addresses.

Although more difficult to implement, VLANs can provide superior voice prioritization if your computers and VoIP telephones are different devices. VLANs will prioritize all traffic within the subnet including call signaling. DSCP is easier to implement but is less accurate. However, smaller networks such as small businesses and homes, installing a router with DSCP traffic management is enough.

Inadequate voice prioritization is only one source of VoIP problems. Please read "Top 7 Common Causes of VoIP voice Quality Problems" to learn about other sources of trouble. Visit my website to learn how Hosted PBX from Hosted VoIP providers can help your business. You can contact my knowledgeable sales engineers at 866-242-6161.

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What is VoIP Codecs?

Voice over Internet Protocol call actually has ample of advantages compared to the conventional telephony system. The main reason for the massive switching from traditional phone to such technology is the cost. Although it is claimed to be cheaper, most people are actually using it for free. You can enjoy calling for free if you have a computer equipped with a microphone, speaker and the internet connection. This is also possible using your home or mobile phone. There are several ways where one can utilize the technology, depending on how and where you wish to make the calls, from home, at work or during a travel. The calling method will vary according to the services you use.

Speaking of such technology, it involves the VoIP codecs. A codec is basically an algorithm, often installed as a program on a server or used within a hardware piece to change voice signals to digital data. The data can be broadcasted via the internet or other network during a VoIP call. The term codec originates from the composed words compressor-decompressor or coder-decoder and codec usually involves three tasks: decoding - encoding, decryption - encryption and decompression - compression.

In a whole, the greatest thing about VoIP is that it provides additional facilities without extra costs. The Voice over Internet Protocol technology will transport the sounds you make from the normal communication tool using the IP protocol. This is the way you can converse with another party without additional charges. The most popular example that offers such services is Skype. Over the recent years, there have been massive introduction of computer-based VoIP services into the market. Besides, the advantage also covers using traditional or mobile phones to make free calls. Although the VoIP is a fairly fresh technology in the vogue, it has attained huge acceptance throughout the world. Of course, there are still plenty of rooms for improvement but with the consistent development in technological advances, the technology is believed to expand and improve in the future.

Now the use of VoIP codecs has been seen as a potential substitute for Plain Old Telephone System (POTS). No doubt, along with the enormous benefits it entails, it comes with several drawbacks as well. And in conjunction with its expanding usage, there should be greater regulations for security reasons. Overall, the development of VoIP is comparable with the growth of internet use during early 90s. The public is becoming more alert to the possible advantages they can harvest from the telephony technology, either in their homes or businesses. VoIP is cost-effective as well as absolutely convenient and user-friendly.

Dennis enjoys writing on wide range of topics such as VoIP (Voice over IP) Codecs and VoIP. You may visit for more details.

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Choosing a VoIP Provider For Your Home

Before you browse through the various VoIP providers for selection, you might want to get yourself a broadband as it is a fundamental requirement to use the VoIP technology. Make sure you know the broadband is a cabled such as Virgin or the ADSL such as BT. Then determine if you wish to make calls via your computer or using an ordinary telephone set. You can make free calls from your computer to another computer via providers such as Skype. This is great if you do not mind being glued to the computer all the time. But make sure your call receiver also has a broadband, signed up to the equivalent provider and is present at their computer. You can still call from your computer to the receiver's phone but you will be charged.

Another alternative is to make calls using your telephone set where you will need to connect the telephone to your computer using an adapter. Most providers will supply you with the adapter. However, this is not free of charge; you will be subjected to a low monthly subscription for the benefits of unlimited calls to landlines in countries stated in the chosen call plan. Basically the Voice over Internet Protocol service has existed for some time but it started becoming a mainstream only recently. To look for the best provider, you can browse through the customers' reviews and feedback to get a thorough understanding to suit your needs.

Apart from that, think of the calls that you and your family may wish to make. Are the calls mainly domestic calls or you need to make international calls regularly? Check out the provider that offers the call plan that complements your calling routines. But of course, it is unnecessary to pay for a plan that encompasses tons of countries you rarely contact. You may want to check out the VoIP providers rates for international calls. The prices are rather competitive so you may as well pay for the plan that covers the countries you frequently call and have occasional charges for calls to other countries.

Besides, be clear with your budget. The traditional way of making phone calls is using the landline where you pay for the telephone rental and the cost of calls you make, often charged by minutes. This is when most people find it hard to evaluate their bill amount. The Voice over Internet Protocol service works entirely different. Once you are confirmed of a call plan, you can make unlimited calls to any places stated in the plan. There are no additional nasty charges and you will be paying for that fixed amount every month, as long as you do not make calls out from the destinations in your plan.

Dennis enjoys writing on wide range of topics such as VoIP providers and VoIP software. You may visit for more details.

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Cloud PBX is an Inexpensive and Highly Efficient Option For Your Small Business

Cloud PBX is the newest technology wave utilizing the internet to send data in packages through the air like a 'cloud'. The 'cloud' helps facilitate a variety of workplace activities, including communication, data storage and transfer, the cataloging of information, secure server space for web hosting, and more.

The evolution of voice-over Internet protocol, or VoIP, communications has contributed to the popularity of cloud PBX, as many small businesses are choosing to use cloud communications over traditional phone lines due to lower costs and increased feature options. Though communications is just one way the cloud can be used, it is helping VoIP is becoming a large and competitive technology sector in part due to the ease and affordability of usage.

When a company is paying for cloud PBX, they are actually only paying for the service, rather than any hardware, since all the data being transferred is stored off-site, eliminating the need for on-site facilities. Many businesses enjoy that most phones that use his technology are plug-and-play, meaning that the phone may be used virtually anywhere. The packets of data will be sent and received over the internet, which is connected to via the phones.

In Cloud PBX-facilitated communication, the audio from the speaker is turned into compressed audio packets and transmitted over the internet before being restored at the receiver's end. Because this process happens extremely quickly, users are often unable to detect a difference in call clarity or quality.

Features often included with these services are call waiting, auto attendant, call forwarding, caller ID, three-way calling, and more. Companies offering these services continue to be one of the fastest growing sectors as demand only increases. Everyone from individual users to mega-companies are utilizing this new technology to cut their communication costs and increase efficiency.

Also, Cloud PBX enables international and nation-wide companies to manage operations from multiple locations via the 'cloud hosted' data that isn't in any single location. This lightens the communication load on landlines and enables connection to the 'cloud' via mobile phones, VoIP handsets and indeed, even printers. The craze is just the newest innovation in human communication and is bound to stay relevant for as long as the internet itself is relevant. In this increasingly technological age, trends seem to come and go like seasons; just 4 years ago, we might have labeled our teens the 'MySpace generation'. Be that as it may, the internet seems unlikely to experience any major shakeups and changes and as long as it's around, cloud PBX will be around too.

Tony is a blogger and technology enthusiast from Atlanta, GA who really likes writing about Cloud PBX.

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Can a Video Phone Make a Difference in Your Life?

What is next in the world of telecommunications? We are now able to see the person we are speaking to with the video phone. These video phones have become so much more advanced than their predecessors that there is no denying that they have indeed impacted our daily lives and the way that we communicate with each other. Imagine this, my 2 year old son will never know that there was once a time when people were not able to see who they were speaking to. Think about that for a minute. Technology has become so advanced that these concepts are not as unrealistic as they may have seemed to be in the past.

I am still amazed at how many people still are not able to grasp this concept or who have not yet heard of a video phone. It is amazing to see such advancements in technology and how they impact our daily lives. The telecommunications industry has grown two-fold. Can you imagine having the ability to be able to see your loved ones when you travel? Can you imagine using this technology to be able to keep in touch with your family and friends anywhere you go? Imagine being able to spend Christmas or any holiday with friends and family that live miles away and being able to see your nieces and nephews opening their gifts you sent to them on Christmas morning? Well, now you have the opportunity to experience all of these life changing moments within your reach. You need to decide whether or not you want to live in the past or the future!

If you would like to receive free info on the new video phone and how they work and can save you money, please go to http://www.smartconsumerinfo.com

Joseph Huber is a successful business owner and entrepreneur. He has used his knowledge to better the lives of others. He enjoys being able to teach people what he has learned over the years both from his successful businesses and his life experiences. Joseph believes that there is nothing better than sharing information with others and advocates "paying it forward" as much as he can. Joseph currently resides in Massachusetts with his family.

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Call Internationally More Often and Save

It can be difficult to call Bangladesh as often as you want to do so. This is particularly true if you think it will not be cheap to do so. Indeed, it is easy to feel like you must limit yourself to not only how many calls you make to talk to your friends and family in far away countries but also to how long you can talk to them when you do call.

Save Money on Calls to International Destinations

There are ways, however, to be able to talk to your favourite people any time you desire and for as long as you desire. You can also save a lot of money if you know how to tap into the great places that are available online that allow you to place your calls at any time, day or night, and pay for them with a variety of options designed to fit your lifestyle.

Important Things to Know

It is important to be aware of what you want when you are researching telephone carriers that will enable you to call your family and friends. You will want a company that does not require you to sign a contract. Nor will you want a company that charges you a monthly usage fee. A company that requires either of these things infringes mightily on your flexibility to call Bangladesh when and how often you want and need to. In addition, it is likely that this type of approach will only end up costing you money in the long run as you will likely being paying for services you are not using.

Convenience When Calling Matters

Having to dial a country code each and every time you try to call out to a different country can become very tedious indeed. This is particularly true if you make many calls within a given time period. Another inconvenience is waiting for an operator to patch your call through only to hear, after several minutes of waiting time, that the call can not be put through at that time after all. Fortunately, there are innovative companies that offer you the ability to call internationally the way you like. Many of these such companies, for example, offer a direct dialling feature that allows you to totally eliminate the need for a country code or the services of a telephone operator.

Do not allow the thought of a high phone bill prevent you from being able to call Bangladesh when you want to talk to your friends and family. In today's fast paced and innovative digital world, you make the rules about your phone call usage and how it is connected.

Looking to call Bangladesh? Whether you need to call Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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How Discount Calling Services Work With Your Phone Provider

When you call Pakistan from your regular landline or cell phone, you can expect to pay high fees on your phone bill. While companies typically offer long distance calling options, the per minute or second rates aren't comparable to those of a discount service. Cell phone companies are usually the highest fee chargers when it comes to international calls, but discount services can work with both traditional phone companies and mobile phone providers to help callers save money.

With the use of a cheaper calling service, you can make discount calls without needing to change phone carriers. Some discount providers offer cheaper rates but require that you transfer to their preferred carrier. By being able to stay with your current provider, you still receive the service you're familiar with but avoid high long distance charges.

Local Access Numbers

The most common way you receive reduced charges is by signing up for a service and using the provided local access numbers. When you call Pakistan, India, China, or other foreign country, you must dial a prescribed set of numbers. Your local phone provider recognizes these numbers as international and begins charging you as soon as the call connects, and in some cases, even for unconnected calls. A phone service lets you bypass dialing the international number directly by using a local access number.

When using your phone to make an international call, you will use a number given to you by the calling service. This number is seen as a local access number by your phone provider. Once you dial this number, you will then input the destination number and be connected to your family or friends.

How the Price Is Reduced

So how does the price get reduced on your phone bill? For starters, your local phone provider never records a long distance call due to the local access number. For mobile phones, typical charges for use of the mobile service still apply, but long distance charges aren't recorded. By not recognizing your call as international, you fail to receive charges from your local provider.

The discount calling service is the one who charges you for the calls. This is usually done through a prepaid account or calling card. The reduced rate offered by these companies is deducted from your account each time you make a call. So your phone bill remains the same even when you make international calls. If you'd like to save money on your future phone bills when you call Pakistan or any other international destination, consider using a discount calling service.

Looking to call Pakistan? Whether you need to call India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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Don't Spend a Lot of Money to Call Internationally

It can be difficult to call Bangladesh as much as you would like if you are concerned about the rising costs often associated with calling internationally. In order to call the countries you need so that you can talk to your friends and family or business associates you need to be aware of the options available to you. There are companies that offer a variety of cost cutting options to allow their users to both save money and call other countries when they need to.

These types of companies generally do not require a long term contract, or even a long term commitment. Indeed, the length of the commitment is clearly in your control. The way these services are set up involves a user creating a unique account complete with a user name and password. After the set up of an account, it is then time to add money to the account so that you can place calls at your leisure.

Due to the international reach of these companies, most of them accept many forms of payment. This is to give you the most flexibility when managing your account. Of course, almost all of these telecom companies accept most major credit cards as well as debit cards. Many of them also accept other forms of payment such as PayPal and Moneybookers. Topping up your account is as easy as accessing your account online. Or, if you prefer, you can call their toll free customer service number and top up your account that way.

For the ultimate in flexibility, many companies will offer their potential clients a chance to try out their services for free. In many instances, this involves the company depositing a small amount, such as one dollar, or the country wide equivalent, into your account. In this way, you will be able to call Bangladesh. During this call, you will be able to evaluate the ease of the service, the flexibility of the services offered and the clarity of the call. This allows you to judge the services to see if they meet your needs before you top up your account.

Due to the global nature of the world today, some telecommunications companies are offering people the services they need to continue to stay in touch with both their family and friends. A key feature in these services is to offer their clients the utmost in flexibility and cost savings. This makes it very easy for you to call Bangladesh when you want, or need, to do so.

Looking to call Bangladesh? Whether you need to call Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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Call Internationally When and How You Want

In order to call India, you will be faced with a variety of choices. Talking to your family and friends means that you need flexibility about when you can make calls and flexibility how you can complete those important calls.

In the past, calling internationally meant utilising the services of a phone operator. This was inconvenient for many people. Many times, there was a shortage of available operators. This resulted in delayed calls at times of great importance and in more casual times as well.

In addition, the additional charges incurred when using the services of a phone operator to complete the call often made the cost of the call almost prohibitive. Young people and students were especially hard hit by these fees as their income is usually less stable than people who are older and more established. This often resulted in fewer calls being made or much shorter calls being made when calls were completed.

Fortunately, there are some telecommunication companies that offer solutions to these pressing problems. Many such companies offer complete control to their clients. This means their clients get to choose how to call India when it is time to do so. For example, some people still choose to place their calls through a telephone operator in spite of the higher associated costs and the added inconvenience.

Other people, however, prefer the convenience and flexibility of having a unique PIN number that is assigned by the telecom company. This typically occurs after you set up an account with a user name and password. With your unique PIN number, you are able to make calls to anywhere in the world at any time of the day and night. Because the PIN number is associated only with your account, you only need to make sure your account is topped up with enough funds to complete your calls.

With this convenience and flexibility, you will not need to worry about waiting for a telephone operator to complete your call. Additionally, you will not experience a lull between connections. The connections are almost seamless and rarely will you notice a pronounced lull between placing your call and the connection to the intended destination.

Because these innovative telecom companies only charge a flat fee rate for each call you make, they offer you the opportunity to call India without having to worry about receiving a large and unexpected phone bill at the end of the month.

Looking to call India? Whether you need to call India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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Great Reasons For Growing Businesses to Invest in an Auto Attendant

One of the best things to happen to a small or medium scale business is growth. Growth, however, has side effects that need to be addressed at the earliest possible onset. For one, businesses need to make sure that they are properly handling all their inbound calls.

In highly competitive business arenas, players who let customers wait or are very difficult to contact lose many of their income opportunities. If a customer or a prospective client calls your office but cannot get through, they may quickly move on to one of your competitors.

Now, wouldn't it be great to have a team of receptionist answering every call and addressing every inquiry 24 hours a day and seven days a week? Well, hiring all those people and buying all required equipment would be out of the question, particularly for small and medium enterprises that may not have the capital to do so. There is an amazing alternative though, and this comes through virtual answering services, sometimes referred to as auto attendants.

Deciding to invest in an auto attendant for your business depends on your needs. It would all start by understanding what constitutes a virtual answering service, knowing the benefits they can provide your company, and choosing the right provider.

What Are Virtual Answering Services?

Many probably still recall images of old telephone switching system where an assigned operator answers incoming calls then routes them to their intended recipient by manually switching or plugging in connecting wires on an already jam packed switchboard. Traditional PABX systems in wide use today involves the use of sophisticated telecommunications equipment that are not only very expensive but requires additional personnel to operate and maintain - increasing the total cost much further.

With a hosted VoIP service, no additional equipment purchase or installation is required as everything is maintained and operated at the provider's own facilities. You only need to pay for your usage, without worrying about overhead or equipment costs. Using specialized software, VoIP providers feature auto attendants to receive and greet callers with customized messages 24 hours a day.

With an automatic caller distribution feature, incoming calls are analyzed based on origin and agent preferences and then it redirected to intended recipients or your assigned agents. Should the volume of calls exceed the number of allocated agents, the calls would then be diverted to a voice mail system where they receive instructions on how the client can leave their message or inquiries in the system. This would be better than letting your clients receive a busy tone.

Why Should You Invest in a Virtual Answering Services Company?

Many growing businesses take in additional customers from international locations and different time zones. It would be vital to the business to handle all inquiries from this wide client base regardless of the time they make the call. Hiring additional personnel to do this for you is definitely out of the question.

This is why growing businesses should invest in hosted business VoIP solutions, thus eliminating the need for additional equipments plus the receptionists or operators to 'man the booths'. Customers are assured that all their calls will be received and addressed 24 hours a day. Business owners and staff can accomplish more for their core business or even go on business trips and still get in touch with their client base.

Saiju George is a VoIP and software as a service expert specializing in hosted VoIP phone system and hosted IP pbx solutions.

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Tips on Saving Money When You Call Abroad

With phone providers offering different rates for international calls, you may be paying too much when you call Bangladesh for business or personal reasons. Cutting costs on your phone bill can greatly reduce the overall amount of money spent on bills each month. Reduced rates are available for both landline and mobile phones. However, it's finding the best rate that can sometimes be a challenge.

Before deciding on a calling plan, you need to take into consideration the frequency of international calls made. For most people, calls are made infrequently throughout the month. For some people, calls are made frequently, especially if the majority of family and friends are located internationally. Businesses also make frequent international calls, both locally and from abroad. Once you have a good estimation of how often you make international calls, you need to look at your monthly average phone bill. Then look for a phone plan or service that reduces the amount you currently pay.

Budget Your Phone Bill

The easiest way to save money on your phone bill is to create a budget. This is perfect for families and students who are trying to save money. By creating a budget, you can add only that amount onto a prepaid phone card or discount calling service program and only top up when you reach the end of the month. Once you create a budget, look for a discount calling plan that allows you to get the most out of your budget. Many plans offer a per second rate so that you don't pay for time not used. These are ideal for people talking with a restricted budget in place.

Take Advantage of Free Calls

If making most of your calls from home or work, consider using VOIP services. Calling over the Internet is usually free, so you don't need to add any special services to your phone plan. This can help extend your budget for the month and allow you to call Bangladesh more often.

Check Your Mobile Plan

Many mobile phone plans have very high international rates. In fact, the majority of mobile phone providers charge usage fees on top of the international call rate. Make sure your cell phone offers some form of free long distance if you're going to use your mobile as your main phone. If cheap long distance options aren't available, consider investing in a phone card or discount phone service to avoid excessive mobile charges when you call Bangladesh.

Looking to call Bangladesh? Whether you need to call Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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How to Get Cheap International Phone Rates

There are a variety of ways to get reduced rates when you call India, Pakistan, Thailand or any other country. Both phone providers and private companies compete to help you save money. The choices available can seem overwhelming, especially if you're only familiar with your current phone provider's options. If you make frequent international calls, whether for personal or business reasons, it pays to research the different options available to help you save money on your phone bills.

Depending on your typical phone usage, you may be able to work out a good deal with your phone provider. However, if you travel and need to make international calls from your mobile phone or from hotel phones, it may work out better to take advantage of a discount phone service. Below are some of the options available to people who make international calls.

Discount Calling Plans Through Your Provider

Many people take advantage of the discount calling plans offered by their provider. These plans are usually more expensive than using a discount service, but are ideal for people who want to have all of their charges and calls on one bill and not worry about excess services. These plans vary depending on the provider, but many offer either a discounted long distance rate or a certain amount of free minutes each month.

Businesses may find that it's best to go through their provider rather than invest in a discount program. The only reason for that is because phone providers usually offer a larger discount to businesses that make frequent calls. However, businesses who require on travel may find that discount programs work better at allowing employees to call India, Pakistan, China, or Thailand from any phone.

Discount Calling Programs

The two basic types of discount programs include prepaid calling cards or cheap calling services. Calling cards are available from regular retailers and allow you to add money to the card and then use the local number provided to make a long distance call. A calling service gives you a local access number to call and then charges you their reduced rate to make the call. Both of these work off the same money saving principle, but the service allows you to make calls without worrying about carrying a card.

VOIP

Voice over Internet protocol is another option available for reducing your phone bill. This is especially useful for businesses who want to communicate via computer, but it's also a money saving option for those who want to speak frequently to family and friends. By using your computer to make the calls, you avoid high phone bills. And with the web cameras available, this option even lets you see the person you're speaking to. No matter which option choose, you can save money the next time you call India.

Looking to call India? Whether you need to call India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Thailand, or somewhere else, Simple Call at http://www.simplecall.com offers great international calling services with multilingual customer service reps.

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An Overview of VoIP Telephony Solutions on Your Personal Computer

The amazing advances in Internet technology have not only revolutionized the way information is disseminated on a global scale- it has also changed the way telephony connects people. VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol technology has proven to be a more cost-effective alternative to standard telephone services. Aside from the cost savings, VoIP services offer several more telephony features that go beyond the capabilities and functions of traditional telephony.

Using only a personal computer or laptop and a reliable, high-speed broadband Internet connection, people can now connect and communicate with people from across national boundaries and even across the globe through PC to phone VoIP solutions. Cost benefits are substantial with up to 30 to 50 percent reduction in telephony fees. As the technology continues to evolve and mature, more and more people are starting to see the value of PC to phone solutions as well as other VoIP internet telephony resources.

An Overview of VoIP Solutions

The principle of VoIP technology can be summed up in simple analogy: as PSTN phones communicate through analog signals, VoIP uses the transmission of digital data through the Internet to connect with other VoIP users as well as standard telephone networks. Instead of a continuous flow of analog signals, the technology behind VoIP converts these signals into digital information that are sent as packets of data across a broadband network.

This allows more information to be sent at a particular time, thus allowing the additional features like video streams from a webcam to be sent through the VoIP network. The use of the Internet also makes these calls cost effective because telephony and data are handled on the same network.

There are three basic configurations where people can make use of VoIP networks. The first one involves their regular phone with an installed Analog Telephone Adapter of ATA which is then connected to the Internet cable modem. In some cases, a router is installed between the ATA and the modem.

Another option allows communication between two or more internet-connected computers with an installed microphone and earpiece or a headset, allowing for higher quality voice communications. In some cases, both PCs need to be running the same VoIP software in order to communicate with each other.

Aside from the options described above, a third option makes it possible for personal computers to communicate with telephones over the VoIP network as described in the following section.

An Overview of PC to Phone Solutions

Personal computers both large and small can now be installed with software that turns it into a viable telephone. These solutions make it possible for a PC to call any landline or cellular phone directly.

For a small fee, PC to phone VoIP providers supply software that allows users to just type-in their intended recipient's phone number on the application's keypad, just like on any other regular phone, and they'll be ready to make calls.

PC to phone solutions provides a cost effective method for use in the home or workplace. Businesses can leverage this technology for their marketing, customer service and other operational needs that require constant use of the telephone.

Saiju George is a Voice over IP and business software expert specializing in hosted VoIP phone service solutions and mobile SIP apps.

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How to Use a VLAN For Awesome VoIP Packet Prioritization

As use of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) continues to grow at a frenetic pace, new users are frequently surprised by the frequency of problems. Unless the user has more bandwidth than his needs could ever consume, users of Vonage, Skype, Google Voice, as well as users of business-type services like Hosted PBX, Virtual PBX and Hosted VoIP will experience trouble. Experienced and successful VoIP users have learned that with proper planning and care, VoIP does live up to its hype.

Voice prioritization is one of many areas that require a network administrator's attention. Voice prioritization can be handled by the Differentiated Service Code Point (DSCP) field in the network's packets or by segmenting VoIP equipment into a separate VLAN. This article discusses the set-up of VLANs for successful VoIP transmission.

VLANs have several advantages over using only the DSCP field, although they are somewhat more difficult to construct. They can effectively prioritize all of the mission critical VoIP traffic including call signaling. They will also exclude packets generated on computers that use the Expedited Forward (EF) Per Hop Behavior (PHB) of the DSCP field that may compete with mission critical VoIP. Additional advantages include the reduction of broadcast network traffic as well as higher security as other computers in other VLANs will not be able to monitor phone calls.

The network needs a managed Ethernet switch and an Internet router capable of manipulating the DSCP field to successfully implement a VLAN for voice prioritization. In addition, the computer and VoIP endpoint cannot share an IP address which means no softphones. The computer can use the small Ethernet switch on the back of most IP Telephones and share a single Ethernet cable back to the managed switch.

In setting up the VLAN, all computers and non-telephony devices are programmed as members of the default data VLAN. All VoIP telephones should be members of the voice VLAN.

The router is on the edge between the Local Area Network (LAN) and the Internet. Its LAN interface does know which packets are in which VLAN but its Wide Area Network (WAN) interface to the Internet does not. Thus, the edge router must set to 'yes' the EF bits of the DSCP field for all packets in the voice VLAN. It sets all the bits of the DSCP field to 'no' for all traffic in the default or data VLAN.

The edge router's Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities should be enabled for traffic going out to the Internet on its WAN interface. Packets are sent to it with the EF field set to 'yes' for only those that were originally in the voice VLAN. The QoS settings recognize the EF field and prioritizes the voice packets out to the Internet.

For successful implementation of business VoIP services like Hosted PBX and Hosted VoIP, prioritization of voice packets out to the Internet is crucial. Of the two methods for establishing voice priority, VLANs require some extra hardware (managed Ethernet Switches) and a extra programming. However, they can do a superior job by including call signaling in the prioritization queues and excluding any non-mission critical traffic.

Voice prioritization is only one of many areas that require attention. For more information, read "Top 7 Common Causes of VoIP voice Quality Problems." Visit my website to learn how Hosted PBX and Hosted VoIP providers can help your business. You can contact my knowledgeable sales engineers at 866-242-6161.

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Hosted PBX - Big Business Solutions at Small Business Prices

By implementing hosted PBX, the perfect telecommunication solution, small businesses can enjoy all the features of expensive telephone systems owned by big business firms, at an extremely affordable price. This phone system helps small businesses create a professional image by maintaining uninterrupted communication with their customers and business associates.

Superior Service at Cost-effective Rates

Any business which has a broadband Internet connection can use hosted PBX to get a feature-rich phone system without the incurring the expenses involved in setting up the traditional phone service. Hosted PBX service can be used anywhere with local area codes, and therefore long distance call charges are considerably reduced.

Hosted PBX phone system are integrated with innovative communication options such as auto attendant, find me follow call forwarding, automatic call distribution, voice to email, fax to email, call conferencing and more. Calls are professionally answered by the auto attendant functioning as the live receptionist. It provides callers with a menu of options including dial-by-name, dial-by extension and more. Calls are promptly transferred to the right extensions according to the option selected by the caller. It efficiently handles several calls coming in together and performs call routing without transmitting 'line busy' signals.

Take Business Calls on our Personal Contact Numbers

Utilizing the high-tech call forwarding feature of hosted PBX, business calls to your official numbers can be answered on your home landlines or cell phones set as extensions. Therefore your business can be easily managed even from international locations. If all these extensions are busy at the same time, calls are routed to the voicemail system, enabling callers to leave voice messages. Voice messages can be forwarded to your email account as audio files and this enables you to provide quick responses to your clients

No Need to Invest in Pricey Onsite Hardware

Hosted PBX telephone system functionalities can be utilized without installing any pricey on-site PBX equipment. The required hardware is maintained by the service providers at their site and PBX functions are offered using high speed Internet or telephone networks at economic monthly charges.

Hosted PBX - AccessDirect provides small business phone systems with all the advanced communication features of modern phone systems. Your existing business number can be integrated with small business PBX phone system.

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PBX Phone System - Is it Right For Your Business?

A PBX phone system is the right telecommunication alternative for small, medium and home-based business offices. By implementing the PBX phone system, low budget businesses can deliver excellent customer support services and thereby create a professional image in the corporate world.

PBX System for Clear and Effective Communication

The PBX telephone system is designed with an assortment of stylish call management to help small businesses manage their communication efficiently. These include auto attendant, call forwarding, call conferencing, voicemail, fax to email, voice to email, automatic call distribution, caller identity, music on hold and lots more.

The auto attendant, functioning as the live receptionist provides callers to your business office with a professional communication experience. It greets callers with appropriate salutations and provides them a menu of options featuring dial-by-extension, dial-by-name and so on. Calls are instantly forwarded to the right extensions according to the choice of the caller. It manages several calls arriving together with superior proficiency and performs call transfer without sending out 'connection busy' signals. Thus, this system does away with the need for call answering staff in your office.

Call Forwarding Features offer Greater Flexibility

With the advanced find-me/follow-me call forwarding feature, business calls can be easily forwarded to your extension phone numbers including cell phones and personal landlines. This feature helps your workforce to operate from convenient sites and significantly improves their productivity. Calls remaining unanswered in these extensions are quickly transferred to the voicemail system, where callers can place voice messages. These voice messages are also forwarded to your email account, so that immediate responses can be provided to customer queries. New message arrivals are alerted on your cell phone. With all these features, you can focus on business functions without being concerned about missed calls or messages.

Saving on Investment

Small businesses can enjoy all the functionalities of the PBX phone systems without investing in expensive hardware. The necessary equipment is maintained by service providers at their site and PBX functions are offered using broadband Internet or telephone networks at economic monthly rents.

PBX Phone System - AccessDirect, a well-known telecommunication service provider in the US, offers reliable small business phone systems of all types. Virtual PBX phone solutions help you to establish a virtual presence in your target market area.

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Getting the Most From Your Business Phone Lines

In business, getting the right package for your business telephone lines can literally mean the difference between streamlining your expenses and needlessly wasting money. Whether you're familiar with business phone lines or new to the subject, this guide identifies the better providers, types of lines and best deals.

Does Your Provider Offer Best Value?

Ideally, your provider should work with all the major networks; otherwise you risk being sold a suboptimal package sourced from just one or two networks. Your provider should base their quote on your actual pattern of usage and offer scalable packages. If you can't change your business telephone lines within a few years, you could find your attractively priced deal could be all too quickly out of date. You also need to know that your provider has enough bulk purchasing power with their telephony suppliers to make sure those savings are passed on to you. Finally, insist on a dedicated manager to handle your account to avoid dealing with an endless parade of different staff. It might help you to understand some of the terminology and concepts used for business telephone lines before talking to potential providers.

Which Business Phone Lines Offer Best Value?

The better providers offer analogue lines as multiple business phone lines, meaning you get Broadband connection and simultaneous multiple inbound and outbound calls. Small offices could also consider ISDN2e from BT, which offers 2 'channels' to allow multiple functions. This offers high quality voice and data services which allows for the simultaneous connection of 8 digital devices and 2 phone calls. Prices are similar to 2 conventional phone lines but the quality and capacity is far superior. Offices needing a larger system should consider ISDN30, in conjunction with a compatible Telephone System such as the Toshiba CIX range. The ISDN30 can be extended to hundreds of channels for larger scale operations. So perhaps think multiple analogue for home sized businesses, ISDN2e for small offices and ISDN30 for larger companies - and then consider the price you'll pay for business line rental.

How To Get Better Deals For Business Telephone Lines?

The better providers should have a relationship with BT allowing for free installation of any BT line service and a discount on line rental for BT Analogue, ISDN, BT ISDN2 and BT ISDN30. Also ask about SIP Trunks, delivering significant savings and flexibility without changing a BT or Virgin Media telephone number. SIP Trunks allows for multiple VOIP calls using just a single internet connection. VOIP calls are telephone calls which are routed over the internet rather than the traditional telephone exchange system, providing great savings. With an SIP Trunk using VOIP in this way, you are then also free from paying BT/Virgin Media rental charges.

If you need more than one line, the better business telephone lines providers will only make small charges for each additional one (and offer additional call packages to 01, 02 and 03 landline numbers as standard). Ask about 'bundles' - can you pay a single monthly fee for the line rental along with other business telephony services? You can get business phone lines rental, free call minutes, Broadband, a Router and Migration included in the better packages. Also enquire whether you can receive free telephone calls between your premises sites.

Getting the best deal on business telephone lines will probably be easier working with these tips provided by Synergy One, a leading expert in systems to provide efficient and cost-effective business telephone calls.

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Comparing Residential Voice Service Providers

The residential VoIP phone services are of great use for people having internet access at the home PCs. Internet technology is been used by VoIP to make phone calls without the need of a traditional phone landline. If you are smart enough to do a research on the market, you would find cheap deals compared to traditional phone services. As in the case of any product, it is wise to compare the relative benefits of residential VoIP service providers before you take a decision. Then you can make unlimited calls to anywhere with just a computer and internet access.

Before approaching a service provider, you initially need to know your requirements. So the first step is to make a list of the major features that you would like to have with your residential VoIP service. Usually the services would be charged a flat monthly or yearly fee for local as well as nationwide long distance. If you intend to use the service on a daily basis frequently, you must look for a service that offers a flat fee. Voice mail, call waiting, caller ID and three way calling are the other features that you may want to include. For making international calls, you would surely require a VoIP service that allows international calling. While browsing through the features offered by each company, check the catalog and see the list of additional features.

With the increase in demand, the competition also increased following which there numerous companies are offering the internet calling services. You can browse through websites that compares the VoIP prices of major service providers. As part of a flat monthly fee, some packages now include varying amounts of international calling. The websites would also provide reviews of the services. Visit individual websites for getting more information on the service providers. Some of the providers even offer both residential as well as business VoIP services. Make sure to check on the provider website for correct information regarding the residential services. Also ensure that the package that you select would allow international calling to the desired countries along with all the required features. The availability of features would vary from plan to plan.

There are also websites that compare VoIP international rates of each provider. For finding the rates, you need to select the country that you would like to call. Sometimes a major provider does not offer service to your desired country. In that case you need to use one of the available providers. You can also find additional companies that offer international rates through websites. First you click on the country for comparing international rates and later you need to click on the VoIP provider website links ensure that a provider has all the required features.

Before choosing a provider, you need to compare all the plans that have your desired features. There may be benefits in many possible ways. You may save money by selecting one provider with a flat monthly fee. On the other hand, another provider may be beneficial for certain international calls.

To get more information about VoIP service provider as well as finding more information about Toll Free Number and 800 numbers.

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Benefits of Using a VoIP Telephone

Most of you would have heard about VoIP and for those who haven't it's never too late. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and is revolutionizing the telephone industry by combining the benefits of traditional analog telephones and modern day internet. VoIP telephone works by converting the analog signals into digital signal so that you get superb audio quality.

Companies now offer VoIP services all over the world at very reasonable rates. Although, it is very difficult to make people forget about traditional landline phones and make them use VoIP, but it comes with a full bag of benefits which make it very difficult to ignore. Slowly but steadily VoIP is catching up popularity among masses and classes both. Some of the main benefits of VoIP telephone over traditional phones are:

• The call rate for long distance calls is very less in VoIP thus making the landline phones not so useful.
• As compared to the pulse rate service provided by landline phone companies most VoIP service providers offer packages wherein you get unlimited talk time at a flat rate. So you don't have to keep track of the watch while making an international call. This facility is very useful if your family lives in some other country and you are in other country for some purpose. You can interact with your family and friends for as long as you want.
• Use of VoIP for conference calling and multi way calling is relatively easy. Unlike traditional phones which only offer 3 way calling you can add as many people to your conversation as you want in VoIP. Also the facility of conference calling makes it a perfect tool for holding telephonic seminars, conferences and telephonic interviews.
• Most VoIP service providers have the option of combined plans wherein you pay for your broadband usage and VoIP usage together. Hence you can save good amount of money by using VoIP over traditional phones.
• Use of VoIP telephone will substantially cut down on your telephone bills. Even the most costly VoIP provider is very cheap when compared with traditional landline companies. Plus the quality you get is unmatchable as it is completely digital and is very likely to be affected by additional factors unlike traditional landline which used wires for transmission so if anything happens to the wire your service gets hampered.
• Many features for which you pay extra on your landline come free with VoIP telephone.
These along with other features make VoIP technology very hard to resist and a good alternative for traditional landline phones.

Dennis enjoys writing on wide range of topics such as VoIP (Voice over IP) training and VoIP telephone. You may visit for more details.

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Hosted Predictive Dialer Systems

Data control aggregation is known to be one of the main functions existing in a call center. Voice related systems are known to be an integral part of a call centre. Numerous dialing systems are available on the market these days. Most of these systems facilitate the users to control consistently varying plans and data recording systems. These are usually a mixture of programs. Hence, adept management on a regular basis is very important. Hosted Predictive Dialer Systems are known to be latest in design and offer enormous benefits to those who utilize the system. These systems have been designed in a fashion to start allow you to reach to the next level of predictive dialers.

Most of the predictive dialers work with PBXs digital recordings, VOIP gateways and ACDs. These are known to work in a system that is totally based on performance. This facilitates easy access to all requisite tools that makes a modern call center effective and performance oriented. Almost all hosted systems function with a mission to improve overall performance of the agents that dedicatedly utilize multi faceted systems each day. This also allows these agents to enjoy a comprehensible setting to work from. This goal is significant to prove success for customer service center. The customer center requires updating communications systems on a daily basis.

These systems must be enhanced regularly to ensure maintenance of various crucial predictive dialer goals. This further results in easy access to the most updated equipments and systems that helps your organization run in a more smooth and efficient manner. Assigning various targets is very crucial for your organization's success. The system requires delivering excellent performance in the following areas:

1. Telemarketing campaigns

2. Debt collection

3. Teleprospection

4. Telesales

Smooth operation and consistent performance of your organization is almost impossible without a good predictive dialer system. An efficient system will definitely help you filter out the preferred calls and allows you to stay focused on the most crucial issues of your organization. Bear in mind that the Hosted Predictive Dialer must be capable of delivering up to 70 per cent on the base productivity of the organization to let you enjoy the earnings and profits at a quick pace.

The system is also efficient in will bargaining between varying time zones. The bets thing to do is to keep the agents on top of your preference list. This will motivate them to work harder and remain productive. It is important for the system to create a do-not call list for customers who should not be called back. This will help agents in saving time in calling those who will not be of any use to the production and profit enhancement of your organization.

There is also an option to decide on specific management campaigns you require utilizing with the Hosted Predictive Dialer system. This is usually done as a self-governing division of the system which further facilitates the criterion to be customized according to your specific campaigns requirements.

Jeff Watts is the author of this article on VoIP Predictive Dialer.

Find more information about Hosted Predictive Dialer here.

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