Showing posts with label top voip service. Show all posts
Showing posts with label top voip service. Show all posts

Friday, December 16, 2011

How Mobile VoIP Works and How it Will Change Communication



VoIP also known as voice over Internet protocol is a process wherein audio signals are converted to digital data and is transmitted over the internet. The process allows Internet users to communicate and make long distance calls at a rate lower than those being offered by telecommunications companies. They are now able to bypass these telecommunications companies and can begin using VoIP to communicate with people even around the world.

Mobile VoIP has changed the way people have looked at VoIP. VoIP has been limited to those who used personal computer that has VoIP. The computer is connected to the Internet and has restricted VoIP inside the confines of your home or in the office. But now, if you have a mobile phone that has access to the Internet or also known as GPRS or General Packet Radio Service or that has 3G and WiFi connection can use VoIP. This is known as mobile VoIP. This way, you can use your mobile phone to call anyone that has mobile or traditional VoIP.

So, how does mobile VoIP work? You should know what you need to make mobile VoIP work. You would obviously need a mobile phone that supports GPRS, 3G, or Wi-fi system. You will also need a handset that is compatible to the mobile VoIP system like Skype and Google Talk. You can check your local mobile phone company and see which mobile phones are compatible to mobile VoIP.

So, what is the reason why mobile VoIP is more popular and is more effective when it comes to communication that normal mobile communication? VoIP is a lot cheaper than telecommunication companies offer. It is ten to twenty times cheaper when you call someone outside the country. You are able to save a lot of money if you have international business to run and that you would need to make long distance calls almost every day. Since you are connected to the internet, you are only paying for internet charges plus you can call anytime and anywhere you want as long as there is an internet connection. You won't need to change your number like other phone companies do. You can also enjoy features that several phone companies charge you for. These features include call waiting, call forwarding, and call log among others. And the best thing about this is that they come for free. With VoIP you can call at any place where you want to. Some businessmen find it hard to communicate with their business partners because they do not have their laptops all the time. This is why mobile phones are much convenient as long as there is internet connection within the area. In some countries, calls are being charged per minute but with the use of mobile VoIP, you are given the liberty to talk all you want because there is no restriction to the time of talking because you are not worried if you are going to pay a large fee for a single call.

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




Monday, December 12, 2011

Voice Over Internet Protocol 101



VoIP, more specifically known as Voice over Internet Protocol, is a type of technology that has a set of applications that permit users to make telephone calls with the use of a broadband internet connection. Voice over Internet Protocol is also known as Internet Telephony, IP Telephony or a Broadband Phone. Voice over Internet Protocol works by using a process in which voice and audio data is broken up into small packets. These smaller "chunks" of data are then further compressed. Then, they are transmitted over an IP network, the internet for example. These small packets of data are then reassembled when they reach the receiving end. This is the basic mechanism of how two people can communicate using voice.

It is a reality that using Voice over Internet Protocol when making phone calls rather than using the traditional telephone lines will help you save more money. As a matter of fact, it has been proven to save at least thirty to ninety percent off the average person's regular monthly phone bill. If you have access to an internet connection and you are regularly making overseas international phone calls, then using Voice over Internet Protocol is fully relatable to you. Aside from this, when you are running a business, Voice over Internet Protocol is a good way to cut your phone costs. These are just a few of the reasons why it is good to switch to Voice over Internet Protocol when making calls.

Although most people are skeptical about using Voice over Internet protocol on a regular basis due to the quality of phone calls, there is actually no need to worry because VoIP calls have now been increasing in quality over the last few years. As of today, it is at the stage that it is as good as, or in some cases even better than the traditional phone line. Basically the quality of the phone call depends on the quality of your internet connection, hence a broadband internet connection is the most ideal type for VoIP. Most users have already upgraded to this type of connection, so switching to Voice over Internet Protocol nowadays seems less daunting and more advantageous.

All that is needed to perform a Voice over Internet Protocol phone call is a computer and an internet connection. This computer has to have a headset, speakers or headphones so you can hear the person you are talking to. Aside from this, your computer has to have a microphone, so the person you are talking to can hear you talk too. Hence, both parties can communicate both ways. Furthermore, a VoIP software has to be installed in your computer systems. Some examples of the software are Skype and Comcast. There are also VoIP devices that can use the traditional analog phone. One example would be Magic jack- it is a small plastic rectangle that is to be connected to the computer's USB port, and the cord of the analog phone is connected on its other end.

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.




Sunday, December 11, 2011

VoIP - Digital Post Cards



Several people have argued the relevance of the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology and consider it as the best communication option there is. But how can they make such statement? What distinct edge does it give which is absent in the traditional telephone system? To help identify with those people, it is but imperative to first know how the innovated technology works.

Voice over IP is simply conversation (or voice transmission) via the internet. What's uniquely good and beneficial in VoIP is its capability to send voice in packets, which are like postal cards sent through the mail, as how the Father of Internet Vint Cerf describes it. They are like a puzzle where each postal card carries limited information and requires the other cards for the full message to be assembled and completed, producing one long note which is the complete picture. However, before having the complete puzzle of message, a number of steps are required.

Sampling of audio must first be done via the computer. This is a process of recording and then storing the tiny piece/s of audio. But in VoIP, the audio pieces are sent over the IP network instead of storing them in the computer. Upon receipt on the other end of the line, the audio pieces are converted into a compatible format for the recipient's device which may be another computer or a telephone, so that the receiver may be able to get and listen to the complete recording.

Take note that before the audio pieces are sent to the other end, it should be compressed to lessen the required space for the file. This would promote a smooth, fast and uninterrupted transport over the IP network or web. Compressing audio files is done through a compressor/decompressor (CODEC). Simply put, the CODEC's are there to minimize and decrease the bandwidth of files, then gather and combine them to form full bigger chunks and eventually squeeze them into data packets, hence, a better transmission. Typical IP packets contain about 10 milliseconds worth of audio each. Numerous CODEC's are accessible which can be used not only for VoIP, but also for videos, photos and other multimedia files.

Finally, VoIP can only be successful with the cooperation of the other end of the line. The receiving party should of course be able to receive and read the sent digital audio pieces in the IP packets; otherwise, communication via VoIP becomes useless and futile.

Two means may be executed to make the above possible and successful, but it would be dependent on the user's receiving device. If they are receiving the IP packets digitally (includes the internet), just like Skype, the files may automatically be read. However, if the data are obtained through an analog technology (e.g. telephone, cellphone), there must exist a converter to convert the digital files to a signal readable by the analog device of the user.

So, are you convinced that the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology is the best human innovation ever?

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.




Thursday, December 8, 2011

Voice Over Internet Protocol & Its Disadvantages



When we talk about VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol, we are talking primarily about a revolutionary way of talking with somebody like the traditional phone, only, more advanced-in simpler terms-it is phone service over the internet.

To better understand how it is different from the traditional phone, let us first give a brief preview how the two works. The traditional phone or regular analog audio is made up of fiber optic networks that digitize your voice communications before sending the signal over the phone lines miles away, and then when it reaches its destination, the signal is once again switched to analog.

On the other hand, the Voice over Internet Protocol, works basically with the same principle, only through a more complex & revolutionary way. It works by making the analog signal into a more digital format by converting these signals into smaller packets that is transmitted through the Internet-which differentiates it from the traditional phone that transmits its signal through phone lines. From the Internet, these signals are then reassembled back to its original form when it reaches its destination. The process is attributed to the revolutionary process of "compression/ decompression" or Codec, which is the process of breaking down & the putting back together of large files for it to be able to pass through a series of networks.

With this ground-breaking way of putting a twist on the traditional phone, it is now possible to make phone calls through your computer; you only need to have a stable broadband internet connection & a great VoIP provider.

Some people prefer to have both the traditional phone & the VoIP, because as advance as VoIP may be, there are still setbacks related to using it. One problem that consumers may face when using VoIP is that not all VoIP providers connect directly to emergency services like 9-1-1, which is a big part of every family's well-being. With the use of IP services, emergency calls cannot be easily routed to the intended receiver mainly due to the general nature of Internet Protocol. Whereas, the traditional phone has a fixed line that enables a direct relationship between a specific telephone number & its physical location, while the IP service on the other hand makes locating or mapping out of a specific IP address to that of the location very difficult. In that sense, emergency hotlines, like that of the local police dep't, can locate emergency locations just by calling from a fixed line because it is possible for them to locate your specific location without you telling them, but with VoIP, that same process would be hard.

Another problem is that unlike the traditional phone, VoIP in general, is susceptible to power outrages since it is connected to cable modems or routers that rely on direct lines to electricity-another problem that may pose especially on emergencies. Not all VoIP providers also offer directory assistance or white page listings.

Although VoIP is making its name, there are still much consideration that consumers should take account for. It is important that before choosing to avail any services, careful weighing of whether or not it suits your lifestyle and it meets your needs.

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.




Saturday, December 3, 2011

And Poof! Free Calls!



Voice Over Internet Protocol or VOIP, is the kind of technology that we see becoming more and more known today. We know about Skype, Trillian, and other Voip software because of its quick and easy download and friendly interface. For some users however, the old telephone type of conversation is still what they prefer. Also, not everyone has one of the newer laptop models that these days always come with a built in video camera and microphone. Nope, there are still many users who still have the good old reliable desktop at home. For those of you have who want quick and easy access internet calling, no surprise, technology has something just for you.

The technology is still Voip, but of a whole more convenient type. Today, we have Voip USB devices. I will be talking about one brand of these devices in particular. They all do the same thing generally, but the Magic Jack is one of the more known and widely used ones.

The Magic Jack is a type of Voip USB device that acts pretty much like a combination of Voip software and your normal household landline telephone. It is small rectangular shaped device that connects like a USB (thought for USB standards, it is rather bulky). All you need to do after connecting the device is to connect it to any household type of telephone. You heard it right; you will be making and receiving calls through the classic telephone. By connecting the telephone the magic jack through the telephone cable, you will be able to make use of your Internet connection to make digital phone calls. You will be able to make phone calls, both locally and internationally, to anyone who has a Magic Jack connected to their computer as well; for free! Well, not quite.

Magic Jack of course has a price. Buying it will cost you around $40. The bright side to this is that this is good for a whole year's subscription. I don't know about you, but this looks to me like a much better deal than long distance landline costs. After your one year subscription, subscribing for following years will only cost you around $20. That isn't bad at all.

Let's get back to the features of Magic Jack. One of the things I personally like about it is the software. When connected, Magic Jack uses its own software to be able to make calls and dial (sorry for those of you who wanted to use the actual phone buttons). I like the interface because it still looks just like a regular phone-pad. The little window to be able to click the numbers for your call isn't too bulky, if anything it is sized perfectly so as not to be a nuisance when you are working on something else.

The Magic Jack also boasts directory assistance, caller-ID, voicemail, call waiting, and other features just like a high-tech landline phone. You can check out their website which is easily searchable on any search engine, just type in Magic Jack. Their website will quickly show you its features, being told by the maker itself. So go on and check out this nifty little device. It will help you keep connected with others, and save you some money. Sounds like a good deal to me.

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




Thursday, December 1, 2011

Skype As VOIP



Most of you by now have probably heard of the VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) beast that is Skype. Skype is quickly becoming one of the most popularly used voice calling softwares. There are many other programs today that also offer the same online calling services that Skype offers, thus you may be wondering why is Skype topping that list. I believe the reasons stem from ordinary users like you or me, and what we see that Skype offers. With that in mind, I would like to discuss the top reasons why I personally really enjoy using Skype.

The first reason is something I instantly noticed upon opening my downloaded Skype for the very first time: the interface. The interface of Skype shows a skin with different shades of the color green and blue. The types of blue and green have a very fun type of appeal, leaving the user with a welcoming and user-friendly feel. The interface buttons are presented in a rounded rectangles adding to the fun appeal.

The interface is also very organized. I would be so bold as to say that it hits the user-friendly target right at the bullseye. The top portion of the interface presents the user with the basic software drop down options. The rest of the interface is arranged in two columns. The left column manages all your contacts, conversations, and your own profile. It is presented much like any other messenger software making it very easy to get used to. The right column is reserved just for calling and messaging features. The right column is much bigger than the left, leaving just the right amount of space to let the user focus on conversations. These are just some of the details on why I think the Skype interface is great, there are many more, it won't hurt to explore on your own.

The second major reason I really enjoy Skype is the Extras. Skype comes with a bunch of add-on like extras that you are free to use. The best part about them is that they are interactive. A user can connect to the server to get a hold of the extras and use them to make conversations much more entertaining. Some of the default extras include classic games like Backgammon and Chinese Checkers. Some of the more innovative extras provide voice recording in MP3 format (not to mention the use of fun sound effects), online back-up, and even online meetings with file sharing capability. There are tons more Extras to check out and explore.

Another of the many reasons why I enjoy Skype (and possible one of the more shallow ones) is the "check settings" option for calling and video calling. Skype has this friendly option of checking your microphone, video camera, and internet connection at any given time before making a call to a particular contact. You can check each one of them individually, and Skype will give you feedback and setting options. These include the internet connection between you and your contact, as well s video quality due to connection. This for me is just one of the small things that tell me the makers of Skype put loads of thought into making it. I fully support how the phrases "Skype me!" and "When are we Skyping?" are becoming more and more common.

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.




Monday, November 28, 2011

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.




Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Making Sense Out of Internet Telephony (VOIP)



Voice Over Internet Protocol also known as VOIP is a very ground-breaking discovery. VOIP is a technology that converts analog information digitally into a computer. With this technology, making phones calls especially long distance phone calls much easier. In essence, VOIP translates the sound you hear from a telephone into digital information which is communicated through the internet. Achieving this innovation is much easier with the help of a very reliable internet provider. Now, making a phone call is much faster, easier and cheaper. Since VOIP uses the internet, it means that making phone calls will not cost so much especially if one is trying to reach the other side of the world. All it takes is having a computer, internet connection, a microphone and speaker (nowadays we have headsets). Most communications are done using VOIP. It changes the way people are socially connected with each other. It's the most convenient and cheapest way to get in touch with friends and family around the world. The practicality of VOIP has made it one of the most important innovations of our times. It now caters not only to personal use but is also being used by top corporations and businesses that have branches globally. Nowadays, one meeting is held in various conference rooms all connected by a computer. It is very convenient and cheap, not to mention the savings they will get by avoiding travel expenses just to meet with business partners.

Voice over internet protocol uses various internet networks. The other name used for VOIP is Internet Telephony. It is simply a way of communication used through the internet instead of a public switched telephone network. This process is converting analog voice signals into digital signals which are then transformed into internet protocol packets to be sent out over the internet. This process is reversed once the other end receives the signal, thus making it a two way communication. This process uses different languages and for VOIP to work, these languages should synchronize. The synchronization makes the sound waves clearer and more natural once sender and receiver communicates.

Other than the computer, VOIP also uses other tools to make communication happen. Nowadays Smart Phones connected to the internet are created and designed especially for VOIP use. In the internet many software are also created to cater Internet telephony needs. Software such as Skype or Ventrillo is available for free. It is software used in order to make a "phone call" over the internet. These applications are now improved because it now uses video calls/conference. One can make a phone call and can actually see the other person through live video streaming.

VOIP is a very convenient and practical use of communication. As mentioned before, it can be used both for personal and business use. One can get away from paying large monthly bills because of high cost overseas/long distance calls. Distance is not a hindrance anymore to stay in touch with other people. VOIP is indeed a sensible way to communicate.

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.