A Guide to Information on Internet Phone or VOIP

VoIP came about in 1995 when some computer programmers made voice connections between computers. Later that year, a software package was developed, and using the modem, speakers, microphone and sound card, one computer user was able to speak to another.

The process used involves converting the analog voice to digitized form. That involves breaking the voice down into steps that are then assigned numeric values. Then the data is compressed. After compression, the data is divided into packets that are transmitted over the Internet. Identifying information such as origin, destination, etc., are added that allows for reconstruction at the receiving end. At this point the packets are converted back to analog and the person on the other end of the line can hear the caller"s voice.

As Internet Phone technology improved, by 1998, gateways had been established allowing a PC to connect to a phone. Later that year, it was possible to make phone-to-phone connections using the Internet. Phone-to-phone connections still required a computer to initiate the call, but once the connection was established, callers could use a standard phone set. Today, the computer is no longer needed. All one needs is a telephone (your regular telephone will do), an adapter, and an Internet connection either broadband or DSL, and a service provider. The telephone is connected to the adapter, which is connected to the Internet connection without the need to connect to a computer. For the best quality and to get normal phone company features such as call waiting, etc., you need a VoIP service provider. There are a number of them competing for your business so you need to do some research to find one that is best for you.

If you sign up with an Internet Phone service provider you can get unlimited calls within the country for a small monthly fee! International calls can also be made for a lot less than the cost of regular service. Features like call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, caller ID and 3way-calling, are included with Internet Phone at no extra charge. While you"re talking on the phone, you can send pictures and documents at the same time.

Like all new technologies, VoIP had some problems at first, but is now becoming more reliable and receiving wider acceptance. One thing it has done for you already is that phone companies are beginning to use the technology to provide cheaper long distance rates.

At this time there are several disadvantages to using Internet Phone. Unlike telephone company service, you will lose your connection during a power outage. The solution to this problem is to have battery backups installed.

There is also a problem calling 911. But, there is a system in development to overcome this problem. There are also call quality and reliability problems with VOIP. The two biggest issues that affect call quality are the distance of the call and the speed of the Internet connection. However, as the system matures, these are becoming less and less of a problem.

In the future, VoIP will probably become the standard for telephone service. So, go out and get hooked up with Internet Phone and save yourself some money.

5 Steps to Flyfone VoIP

So youre ready to enjoy unlimited long distance calling and lower monthly phone bills. Well, before you decide read the follow article, here are five important steps that will help you get the best Flyfone VoIP plans that suit you.
Make the Decision

Flyfone voip is new technology, and sometimes we are scared of the unknown. VoIP technology is on the rise and many high profile computer companies are already switching to VoIP and in return are becoming service providers. AOL, Sprint, and Verizon are offering VoIP as well as Internet Messaging services such as Yahoo, MSN, and AOL IM. First you must come to the decision that VoIP is best for you, your family, or your business needs. Research VoIP on the web and its providers. Talk to people that you know have already made the switch. Once you have made your decision to switch to VoIP, you are ready for the next step.

Choose the Plan that is Right for You

A good idea is to write down a list of your needs, wants, and features in a phone. This will help you compare different voip plans and choose the service provider that will best fit your needs. If you are looking for residential or business service, make sure that you note that in your list. Residential plans usually come in two forms- basic (which is a certain amount of minutes) and unlimited (which will give you unlimited local and long distance talk time). Business plans can include amenities such as multiple phones, greater minute talk time, greater unlimited calling plans, business features bundled with your plan, faxing and voicemail to your computer capabilities, and extras such as yellow page listings. Check with the company to find the plan that meets your requirements.

Setting up the System

Some service providers will send you the equipment that you need to begin using VoIP. You will first need to make sure that your computer system is compatible with the VoIP service. You will also need to have high speed Internet already installed with your computer. If you are using VoIP for a business or for a call center, it is best to leave the installation to a professional. Installing VoIP for a residence or home office is typically simple enough for most residents to do themselves.
Choosing your Phone Number

One of the best features that VoIP has to offer is the freedom to select your own telephone number. If you just want to transfer your old number to your new VoIP system, check with your service provider before making your final decision. Many VoIP providers will allow you to transfer your phone number.
If you want to select a different area code, this option has many advantages. First, for friends and family members who dont have unlimited long distance calling, selecting the same area code as them can save them money. They will appreciate being able to call you as if it were a local call.

Install your Features and Accessories

VoIP comes with many features included in your service plan. For residential customers these include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb. Always check with your service provider for a detailed listing of the features included with your plan. For Small businesses, amenities such as multi phone users, free fax lines, and integrating your VoIP and web features are all available. VoIP also contains many of the same features bundled with basic plans as well. When you are choosing a provider, compare their business plans and select the one that best fits your business needs.

As VoIP technology continues to advance, a new array of accessories appears on the market. Today you can choose from VoIP usb phones, headsets, and even VoIP videophones hatwork as a web camera incorporating video with your audio