With a High Speed Internet connection, you too can experience the power of VoIP.  In fact, you may have already tried this technology without even realizing it.  There are many services and programs that have been available for free, on the Internet, for the past ten years that have embraced VoIP. 

Dialpad was known for allowing people to connect a microphone and speakers to their computers and then make long distance calls virtually world wide for free.  Well, Dialpad isn’t free any more, but if you do purchase their monthly service, they do provide an option for unlimited long distance calling.  This service is still comparable to other telephone providers. 

Currently most of the free VoIP have begun to charge a monthly fee for their services.  There is still one program left that is absolutely free.  That is Ad Calls.  This program displays various advertisements on their display while you can use the service to make free calls.  There are limitations to this program however.  You can only use the service for ten minutes at a time, and you are unable to call toll free numbers. 

The major VoIP programs that embrace free calling left on the Internet are bundled with your Instant Messaging programs.  Programs such as Yahoo Messenger have recently been redesigned with the ability to make free voice phone calls using VoIP.  You won’t be able to call a landline telephone however.  You will need to use the program to call another member who is using the same program. For example, if you have the newly VoIP enabled Yahoo Messenger downloaded to your computer, yet your buddy (who lives across the world) is using the old Yahoo Messenger, you can send them a link to download and upgrade their current version.  Once they have installed the new Yahoo Messenger, you will see a “call” button with a phone icon at the top of your Yahoo Messenger chat box.  By clicking call, you will be using VoIP technology to send a phone call to your buddy’s computer.  The receiving computer will actually ring, like a standard telephone, and your buddy will have the option of accepting or declining the phone call.  All that is needed is a high speed Internet connection, this provides the best audio quality and speed), a microphone, and speakers.  You and your buddy are free to talk as long as you like.  The other advantage to Instant Messengers that allow free VoIP calls is the ability to call more than one person.  You can call people on your buddy list, and invite them for a conference call.  This has unlimited potential and can be used by small businesses for free training calls, and by people everywhere who just want to stay in touch with friends and family.

Other Internet Messaging services that have embraced VoIP calling include MSN messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, and Google has begun their new service, Google Talk.

VoIP is a preferred method of telecommunications due to the fact that you can integrate audio, video, and web based applications with one program.  The Instant Messaging programs are perfect examples of how audio and web based communications are working together to increase communication.  Also included with many Instant Messaging programs is the ability to hook up a digital camera or web cam and incorporate video with your audio and web based application.

VoIP Telephones are also beginning to incorporate video with their VoIP services.  This will be a very popular trend in the future.  As there are over 900 million Instant Messaging subscribers, people are already experiencing the power and freedom of converged communications.

Cellular phones are realizing that people want to combine video with their audio, and many videophones are being released.  Some phones have gone the next level and have combined audio, video, and graphics by allowing you to store pictures in your telephone, and use it as a camera.

As the technology of VoIP continues to advance, we can rest assured that more “Beta” programs will be released and as that occurs, keep your eye out for more free VoIP programs.

It is simple to download any of the new VoIP enabled Instant Messengers.  They are all free to download.  You simply go to their websites, and click on any links that are for the installation of the program, and then follow the instructions.  You will need speakers and a microphone-and of course, a soundboard.  If you would like to incorporate video with your Instant Messaging, you can hook up a small digital camera or web cam.  By combining your audio and video with your free Instant Messenger program, you will have a full quality experience.

This is just a precursor of what the future of VoIP will unveil.  There are simply a few glitches in VoIP such as 911 and wireless hotspot issues, for the long run, we can tell that by companies incorporating VoIP shows that they at least believe it will be a strong force. 

One of the benefits of VoIP and instant messaging is that it is absolutely free to call anyone, anywhere, worldwide.  When VoIP first made its appearance on the Internet, many programs were free.  These programs are no longer free, but now offer their services for a fee.  Yet, even when purchasing VoIP services, you will still be impressed with the overall nature of VoIP.  Calls are unlimited and you will be able to make free long distance calls in the long run.

The programs that still offer free VoIP would be Skype and Ad Calls.  These programs will allow you to call using free VoIP programming.  Ad Calls will allow you to call a telephone for free. 

While many people are opting to go with VoIP, it still has some disadvantages.  The main one is that it is hard to use 911 with VoIP.  This is because the call is made from your computer network and not a landline phone.  911 will not be able to trace the phone call made from your VoIP phone and retrieve your address.  Also, when you place your 911 calls, the dispatcher will not receive any of your location information.  The FCC has issued rulings pertaining to this.  Some options include registering with 911, when you call 911 giving them your information and location right away, or keeping a landline phone or cell phone available for use in case of an emergency.  The latter may be the best solution for enjoying the best of both worlds.

VoIP is becoming increasingly popular and powerhouses like AOL and Verizon are offering VoIP packages.  Though free VoIP is still a widely popular choice, it is increasingly harder to find.  For those who aren’t ready to make the switch, they will continue to take advantage of the options available with instant messaging.

VoIP does offer many advantages that aren’t available with landline phones or with cellular.  Some of these include the ability to talk with multiple people at once; many of the standard features bundled with regular telephone services come with VoIP packages, and the ability to speak unlimited (many services enable unlimited calling worldwide). 

As VoIP continues to progress and more people embrace the idea of combining their telecommunication needs, such as data, audio, video, E-mail, and Web services into one program, VoIP will continue to develop new products. 

By first comparing your system to your VoIP’S service provider requirements, you can save time and make sure that your computer is equipped and ready for Voice over Internet Protocol.  

If you are having trouble with your VoIP’S audio quality, then you may need to check your soundboard.  If your computer has an out of date soundboard, it will affect the overall quality of your audio. 

Regularly make sure that all of your audio and video Codecs are up to date with your Windows Update program.  Check and make sure that you have DivX installed and upgraded as well.  This will help offset any complications you may be having with poor audio.

As long as you have updated your Audio Codecs, and checked for newer drivers, you should be all set for Voice over Internet Protocol.  For VoIP to produce great quality audio, you will need to make sure that you have a High Speed Internet connection.  This can be either DSL or Cable Modem, but VoIP may have problems with Dial Up- again check with your VoIP service provider. There are some providers who do have VoIP service that is compatible with Dial Up Internet connections.

Many people prefer VoIP over standard telephone systems due to the fact that they can experience great audio quality- many people will never know that you are calling from your VoIP service.  And VoIP has other benefits beside great voice quality. 

VoIP offers telephony features that are typically offered with PSTN networks for a fee.  Yet, if you check with your service provider, many of these same features are included absolutely free with VoIP.  These services and features include Voicemail, *69, Call Forwarding, Caller Id, and Call Transfer. 

Not only residential users are becoming fast fans of VoIP but business owners are making the switch as well.  In the early days, businesses were concerned about switching to VoIP, for they needed to have high quality audio to run their businesses. 

Now, many businesses have come to learn that VoIP does offer great audio as well as applications that are specifically designed to handle all of their business needs.  These programs and the ability to interact with customers in real time have made the switch to VoIP one of the best decisions a small business could make. 

Some more benefits for using VoIP with businesses include flexibility and customer service.  Call centers have learned that the high audio quality and ability to integrate web features, Email, and audio have made VoIP the perfect solution for their needs. 

Many call centers are opting to outsource their work to other countries, and by utilizing VoIP, call centers can exist virtually worldwide.

Another benefit for small businesses incorporating VoIP service includes greater productivity for mobile employees.  VoIP a great way for mobile employees to stay connected to their main offices.  They can also take advantage of the great long distance and local calling plans.   Since VoIP can be used anywhere there is a High Speed Internet connection, the employee who travels frequently, the sales man, and those who work from mobile offices can maintain a high level of interaction with their employers, fellow employees, and clients or customers. 

VoIP has proved that it offers great audio quality and is a perfect choice for meeting both residential and business telephony needs.  As technology continues to advance, we can know that as we conduct our transactions over VoIP, that the listener on the receiving end is hearing us with crystal clear audio clarity and that the future of VoIP will only have greater products readily available for its users. 

I am sure you have seen the cellular phone commercial, two customers are on cell phones and one says, “Can you hear me now?” takes a step back and repeats, “Can you hear me now?”  While commercials like that make us laugh, the truth is that as telecommunications expand and include many different options, we must make sure that we are not exchanging flexibility for sound quality. 

Today’s telecommunication choices have expanded and continue to progress.  We have moved from the standard telephone to the pager or beeper (which has become virtually obsolete) to the cell phone, and now that the world is going wireless, VoIP and VoWiFi are on the rise.  Computer technology has explored every aspect of audio and video capabilities discovering mpegs and Codecs.

When it comes to VoIP and communication you can take some steps to make sure that you are obtaining the utmost in audio and voice quality. 

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, and is the application of transferring audio as data packets over the Internet and to a receiving computer or VoIP enabled device.  You can use three different types of methods to communicate with VoIP.  First, you can use your computer with an attached microphone and speakers.  You also have the option of using a standard telephone, by connecting it to your broadband modem and your telephone.  You can also use a VoIP enabled telephone. 

Audio Codecs are used to transfer the audio sound into the data packet before it is sent over the Internet.  Some voice Codecs are also referred to as Voice Coders or Voice Encoders.  There are a few commonly used Codecs for VoIP.  These are G.711, G.729, and ITU-T.

There are certain programs that you can use to check your bandwidth and help with any audio quality issues that you may be having.  You can also upgrade to a higher audio codec, such as the G. 729 and see if that makes a difference.

Generally speaking, most people are amazed by the quality of VoIP.  Audio issues are usually mild and simple to solve.  Just upgrading Codecs can make a big difference.

We can expect that the future of VoIP telephony will increase and as it does, preparations will be made to ensure that only the highest quality will ultimately be produced.  Some phones are now hybrids: half VoIP or VoWiFi and Cellular.  For these phones audio quality is being looked at as an important factor in the design of the phone.

Major corporations are now taking an interest in designing VoWi Fi telephones.  We can be sure that these large companies aren’t going to skimp on audio quality.  For certain, there are some properties that can’t be changed, such as using a wireless VoIP phone in a place with bad reception.  But for the overall product, voice quality is a priority when designing telephony equipment.

With so many companies taking an interest in VoIP, even Verizon has come out with their branded VoIP services, we can believe that in the next five years products will burst on the scene with many more enhanced features.  Since VoIP utilizes the Internet, one can only imagine what type of futuristic VoIP phones will soon beset us. 

While VoWiFi phones will only work outside in hotspot zones, you can rest assured that the quality of your VoWiFi phone will be exceptional when you are in “the zone”. 

Telecommunications are advancing every day, and more people are relying on the Internet for their audio and video communications.  Instant messaging programs are embracing VoIP with open arms, and the everyday consumer is experiencing the power of integrated video, data, and audio.  By using a simple web cam, microphone, and speakers, people are enjoying the freedom that is offered solely by VoIP.  Users are learning that microphones, audio Codecs, and high-speed Internet connections can transmit in real time, and give a crystal clear sound.

Of course, one of the main components in high quality audio telecommunications is to have up to date equipment.  You need to begin with a good soundboard on your computer, before you can expect high quality audio from your computer’s speakers.

With the new millennium and its new telecommunications we can finally answer the question and say, “Yes, I can hear you.

Wireless Creates a Faster Network

Wireless networks are fast.  With VoIP, you can create a network that incorporates data, audio, video, and computer web features. You can easily monitor your network for problems and troubleshooting is much simpler with web based applications rather than hardware applications.  VoIP uses less bandwidth than other applications and this in the long run saves money.  This is of special value to businesses.  Businesses can also provide better customer service with integrated programs.  Not only does this increase productivity, but also it saves time and money in the long run.

VoIP Saves You Money

Overall, VoIP is much more inexpensive then PSTN.  You simply pay for your Internet service, and then whichever VoIP provider you choose.   For a one time monthly fee, you can have unlimited local and long distance phone calls.  You will need to check with the VoIP service provider that you choose for exact details on their rates.  Sometimes, your VoIP service provider will allow free calls within the world to another computer, yet there may be a fee for calls worldwide to a landline phone.  Always check with your chosen service provider for exact details regarding your chosen plan. Included in many VoIP service plans are free features.  These features include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Do Not Disturb, and more.  Again, check with your chosen service provider for an overview of all the features bundled with your plan. The biggest benefit is the unlimited long distance calling.  This has proven to be the number one reason why most businesses are switching to VoIP.  For businesses such as sales or jobs that have mobile employees, these benefits go without saying. But overall, the average cost of VoIP is considerably less when compared to the cost of PSTN.

VoIP Enables you to Talk with More than One Person at a Time

With VoIP, you can talk with more than one person without paying extra for services such as three way calling. With VoIP you can have more than three people on the phone at once.  VoIP is the perfect solution for those who want to explore the features of conference calls.  This is very important for businesses that have employees overseas.  By using the video conferencing features, employers will increase their productivity.

Enjoy Greater Flexibility

By using VoIP, you can take your VoIP equipment with you whenever you travel.             Your VoIP service provider will send you a converter that will allow you to use your converter with any standard telephone.  The converter comes programmed with your telephone number, allowing you to take your phone and phone number with you worldwide.  All you will need is a high speed Internet connection and you can use your VoIP phone service. This is of extreme benefit to mobile employees.  No longer are outdated telecommunications systems necessary, or are employees trying to run businesses on prepaid cell phone plans.  By using VoIP, an employee will have access to his/her phone number, wherever they are located.  Whether out of state, in a hotel, or traveling on a business trip, customers will be able to call the same number as well as leave voice mail on the employee’s computer. 

5.  You can Save Money for Family and Friends by Choosing Your Area Code

Many VoIP service providers will give you the option of selecting your own area code number.  This is a tremendous benefit to family and friend members who can call you locally, if you select the same area code number. 

Make the Decision

Yes, it 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 make a written list of your needs, wants, and features in a phone.  This will help you compare different 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 don’t 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.

This strategy is also very beneficial for those whose businesses are targeting specific areas.  Say there is a California company, yet they want to increase business in Tampa, Florida.  By selecting the Tampa, Florida area code, they can increase sales and productivity by having a local number for customers to call.  This also reduces the need for a toll free number.

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 phones, headsets, and even VoIP videophones that work as a web camera incorporating video with your audio. 

VoIP Reduces Cost

Businesses today depend upon telecommunications.  Whether it is Internet, E-mail, Customer Service through telephone, online web applications, and E-mail, or whatever your IT business needs may be, VoIP offers to handle all of your needs with one application.  Additionally, this reduces cost and increases productivity.  VoIP also has combined with software applications that are perfect for many business needs. Software such as accounting programs, Email, and PC based applications help to save money by combining services.

The reduction in long distance charges is another great advantage for switching to VoIP for business needs.  By combining data, video, and audio needs, companies save on bandwidth usage, which ultimately leads to financial savings.

VoIP is perfect for Call Centers

VoIP is slowly becoming the standard choice for Call Centers. VoIP offers some major benefits for Call Centers such as flexibility, cost efficiency, and enhanced customer service applications.  For instance, in the past, a Call Center needed to be a stabilized facility equipped with many phone lines used by people who would physically be located in the Call Center.  By using VoIP for your Call Center, not only is your main location easily relocated as your business expands, but you can hire employees virtually world wide.  Larger companies take advantage of VoIP Call Centers by outsourcing work overseas where they can hire employees for less. 

The Integration of data, audio, and web based features is another reason why businesses are opting for VoIP.  Customer service calls are handled more efficiently with the integration of these three components.  Not only are calls transferred more proficiently, but also greater care can be given to customers when Call Centers use integrated software platforms.

More Call Centers are taking advantage of the opportunity to hire employees world wide through VoIP services.  Employees may work in different time zones, giving greater customer service benefits year round, and hiring home based employees is another way businesses are choosing to save money.

VoIP is better for Mobile Employees

Many companies employ mobile workers. Mobile Employees have typically used cell phones at the company’s expense to stay in touch during the day.  By utilizing VoIP Mobile Employees can remain virtually connected with the company, and the company saves money on fees.  

When mobile employees rely on cell phones, many times a customer will call the main office, only to hear a message or be told the worker’s cell phone number.  This requires the customer to hang up and call the employee on their cell phone- increasing the chance that the employee will lose the sale.  By using VoIP, a call is instantly routed to the mobile employee and productivity increases. 

Since VoIP integrates many other technologies, including E-mail, mobile employees are able to conduct many more transactions with one application.

VoIP allows Real Time Global Conferencing

Global conferencing and training can put a burden on a business.  Attempts to reach employees worldwide are not only expensive but time consuming as well.  With VoIP technology businesses can avoid conferencing costs, and enable secure audio and videoconferences to offices worldwide.  By reducing long distance costs, employees are also taking advantage of calling each other and corporate headquarters more frequently.

VoIP offers Flexibility that Ultimately Increases Productivity

VoIP allows greater flexibility.  By using a standard VoIP Phone Adapter, you are able to take your telephone number with you.  This allows greater productivity by allowing employees to conduct business overseas, while traveling, staying in hotels, etc.  Your customers will be able to call you on your regular business phone number, and you won’t have to use your cell phone. 

Many VoIP services are fully integrated with PC applications such as fax and email.  There is greater productivity when employees can integrate their email and phone services with one application.  Conduct business with VoIP on your laptop, any time day or night. 

With the option to get VoIP phone numbers with area codes throughout the country, and some world wide, businesses can expand by choosing local area codes for the city, state, or country they are targeting.

VoIP is Cost Efficient

Whether for your residence or business, VoIP is just plain cheaper then other telecommunication applications.  You can reduce cost in your home by saving on long distance and local telephone calls. Many VoIP service providers have plans that allow unlimited local and long distance calling.  You will have to check with various companies to see how far their unlimited local and long distance calling areas serve.  You also save money by using VoIP throughout your house.  You won’t need to install additional phone jacks and wires, you just add on to your VoIP system. 

VoIP will Integrate your Audio, Data, and Video Applications.

VoIP systems can integrate your telephone needs with your computer applications such as E-mail, Fax, Web conferencing, and Video Phone needs.  This saves money and energy by combining all of these services into one basic application.  You can use your phone and access all of your other programs at the same time, allowing greater freedom and is a simpler way for the home owner to utilize all of these different products.

VoIP Provides Flexibility

VoIP allows users tremendous flexibility.  For instance, many VoIP users can take their phone adapter with them, and use their telephone number anywhere they have access to an Internet connection.  This includes traveling overseas, while staying in hotels, or even camping.  If you have high speed Internet, you will be able to take phone calls on your regular number.  This is a much better solution for those with active lifestyles compared to the expense of cell phones as well as being the perfect solution for mobile employees and those whose jobs require much travel.

VoIP Users Can Choose their Own Area Codes

VoIP providers allow users to choose their own area codes.  This is a fantastic option for those whose friends and family all live in one particular location, and they are out of state.  By choosing your family and friend’s area code, you are allowing them to call you, whenever they choose, and they will not have to pay long distance charges.  Their calls will be local.  Some providers extend the area codes to other countries.  This would be extremely beneficial to someone whose friends and family are halfway across the world. 

 VoIP offers Features for Free

Features that typically cost extra with PSTN phone services are usually bundled with VoIP unlimited calling plans.  These features include Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Call Return, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb.  Because of the integration between VoIP and the Internet, many service providers will allow you to access and control all of your VoIP phone features through the Internet.  With VoIP, users have greater access to control all of their phone features as well as save on charges.