VoIP, also known as Voice Over IP or Voice Over Internet Telephony, is a way to make telephone calls over a data computer network like the Internet. You can use a regular telephone, but when it is hooked up to the computer, your voice is transformed into a digital signal that is sent through the Internet and is converted back into sound. You don’t have to call another computer, you simply dial the phone number of the person you are trying to call and the adapter does the rest.
Why Bother?
VoIP may just sound like a way to make a simple thing like a telephone call more difficult, but in actuality VoIP serves an excellent purpose. By using a VoIP phone to make calls, you can determine your area code and take your phone and phone number anywhere you travel (as long as you can get high speed internet service, of course.) Depending on the plan and service provide, Voice Over IP can be a much less expensive solution that a regular phone plan. Some providers have unlimited calling, unlimited long distance and even offer lower rates on international calls.
What Kind of Equipment do I need?
VoIP is impossible with out a high-speed, broadband Internet connection. You can use DSL, a cable modem or a local area connection for this. To make the call, you can either hook a microphone into your computer or get a telephone adapter that will allow you to use a regular telephone.
Are there Drawbacks?
Like any new technology, Voice Over IP isn’t perfect. One of the biggest problems is that your VoIP phone will not work during a power outage or if your Internet connection is down. Also, because your phone can go anywhere in the world, it is difficult for emergency services to track down where you are actually calling from.