VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that lets you send voice signals over the internet. VoIP phones can be used as regular landline phones, can work even if there is no Internet connection, and are less expensive than traditional phone lines. All you need to connect your computer to the Internet is an Ethernet cable.
Explaining VoIP
Many may not understand VoIP as it’s still relatively new. VoIP is a technology that lets you send voice signals over the internet. This allows you to hook up a regular land-based phone to your computer to make calls. That’s right–you can make phone calls using nothing but your computer!
VoIP also goes by several other names, including internet telephony or IP telephony, digital phone service, internet calling, and telephone over IP to name just a few.
It’s the same technology that makes it possible for you to make free calls on Skype or Google Hangouts. The difference is instead of going through your cell phone or computer to communicate, you can use a traditional phone system. This is super convenient for offices that want several lines or a centralized system.
It can also be helpful for home offices where you don’t want to give your personal cell number or private home number. It can also be included in residential use. That can be helpful if you have children or teenagers who need to use a phone but you don’t want them on cell phones. A VoIP system would make for better monitoring too.
VoIP systems can be connected to smartphones so those not wanting to miss a call can still get them when they are out.
The advantage of VoIP over traditional phone lines is that it’s less expensive
An advantage of VoIP over traditional phone lines is that it’s less expensive.
That’s because the price of VoIP plans is based on how many minutes you use each month rather than having an ongoing monthly fee like with landline phones or mobile devices.
For example, if you currently pay $50 per month for unlimited talk and text with a cell phone carrier, then switching to a VoIP service could cost about $14 per month for a starter plan with 500 minutes included plus free calling within the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico! That’s just an example. VoIP companies have different rates and plans.
VoIP phones can also be used as regular landline phones when there’s no internet connection.
Your phone will work no matter what. Your VoIP service won’t be limited just because you don’t have access to the web or your cell signal isn’t strong enough. That’s because VoIP companies have protocols that automatically switch your signals to a working line when your typical Internet line is out.
It’s kind of like railroad engineers diverting a train to a side track when there is a problem on the main line.
There are some additional benefits of using VoIP service with a traditional landline number including:
- You’ll be able to keep using your current number without having to change it, which can sometimes be difficult.
- You may get better call quality than with traditional landlines because VoIP services don’t have any dropped calls or static interference like cell phones do. Cell phone quality often depends on whether you are indoors, outdoors, in good weather, or have a cloudless day.
It’s easy to connect to VoIP
All you need to connect your PC to the internet is an Ethernet cable. You can use any router that has an RJ-45 port, which is typically located on its back panel.
If you’re using a VoIP phone, connect it directly to one of these ports with another Ethernet cable and plug-in power at both ends of each cord. Don’t forget about surge protections. You can also plug in power directly into each device’s AC adapter.
Check all connections. Once everything’s plugged in correctly and working properly, go ahead and double-check your VoIP line by opening up Skype or Google Hangouts.
Consider a VoIP service if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to keep in touch
VoIP service providers offer affordable home phone service for both homes and businesses. If you’re interested in keeping up with your loved ones without breaking the bank, this option may be right for you!
There are many plans to choose from that suit both personal and professional needs. With VoIP, you can call anywhere in the world without paying all the international call prices that cell phone companies and traditional phone companies charge.
Plans are also crafted for both large and small offices and include many cool features like using phones for an intercom, disguised numbers where you can receive and make calls on the road using only the office number, and texting from your cell phone.
VoIP is a great option for anyone who wants to save money on their phone bill, or just have a little more flexibility when it comes to communication. It’s not only cheaper than traditional landlines but also allows you to use your home or office phone number no matter where you are in the world!
