Depending on the service, you can place a VoIP call by picking up your phone and dialing the number. An adaptor connects the phone to your existing high-speed Internet connection. The call goes over the Internet to your VoIP provider and then on to a local telephone company. Another way to place a VoIP phone call is using a microphone and headset plugged into your computer. The number is placed using the keyboard and is routed through your computer and on to your cable modem.
What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?
A broadband (high-speed Internet) connection is usually required. This can be a cable modem or a high-speed service such as DSL or a Local Area Network (LAN). To place a call into the regular (PSTN) (What is PSTN?) phone network you will need a VoIP service provider. The VoIP service provider will send you an adapter that you can plug into your Internet connection and then plug your regular analog phone into the adaptor. Or you can hook up an inexpensive microphone to your computer and send your voice through your computer and its high-speed Internet connection.
Is There a Difference Between Making a Local Call and a Long-Distance Call?
It depends. Some VoIP providers offer unlimited long-distance in which case the call is free. Even if the call is not free the rates are usually very competitive. But as far as the actual dialing of the call goes think of it like a regular phone. Just pick up the phone and dial.
Also note that your VoIP provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. This means you may not incur long-distance charges if you call a number in your area code regardless of geography. It also means that people who call you may incur long-distance charges depending on their area code and service.
Some VoIP providers charge for a long-distance call to a number outside your calling area similar to existing traditional wire-line telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes.
If I have VoIP Service, Whom Can I Call?
Depending upon your service you might be limited only to other subscribers to the service. VoipReview.biz lists only providers that allow you to call to the regular phone network so you will be able to call any phone number anywhere in the world. The call can be made to a local number, a mobile phone, to a long-distance number or an international number. You may even utilize the service to speak with more than one person at a time. The person you are calling does not need any special equipment, just a phone.
What Are Some Advantages of VoIP?
Because VoIP is digital your provider may offer features and services that are not available with a traditional phone. If you have a broadband Internet connection, you need not maintain and pay the additional cost for a line just to make telephone calls.
With many VoIP plans you can talk for as long as you want with any person in the world (the requirement is that the other person has an Internet connection). You can also talk with many people at the same time without any additional cost.
What Are Some Disadvantages of VoIP?
If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with VoIP, there are some possible differences:
Some VoIP services don't work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power;
It may be difficult for some VoIP services to seamlessly connect with the 911 dispatch center or identify the location of VoIP 911 callers; They may or may not offer white page listings.
Can I Use My Computer While I Talk on the Phone?
Yes, depending on your service provider a router may be required.
Can I Take My Phone Adapter With Me When I Travel?
You may be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high-speed Internet connection available. In that case it would work the same as from your home or business.
Does My Computer Have To Be Turned On?
Not if you are making calls with a phone and adaptor or special VoIP phone, but your broadband Internet connection needs to be active. You can also use your computer while talking on the phone.
How Do I Know If I have a VoIP Phone Call?
It will ring like any other call.
