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The Layman’s Guide to Making Free Online Calls with VoIP

Saturday, November 29th, 2008
Isabel Baldry asked:

So you’ve heard the news: a new technology is around that lets you make phone calls, even long-distance phone calls, for free! You’d like to try it, but it sounds rather complicated. What is this VoIP, anyway? Here’s a quick question-and-answer guide to VoIP and how you can make free online calls without reading tons of technical jargon.

What is VoIP?

VoIP means Voice over Internet Protocol. In plain English, it means that in exactly the same way you use the Internet to send letters through email, you can now send your voice through VoIP, to make free phone calls to anywhere in the world.

How does it work?

1. You talk through your computer microphone or your VoIP phone.

2. Your voice is turned into computer data.

3. It is sent through the Internet (like email) to your VoIP service provider.

4. They send it to the phone number you are calling so your friend can receive your call.

5. When your friend talks on his phone, his voice reaches you the same way, but in reverse: from his phone, to your service provider, to your Internet, to your phone or computer.

How is the sound quality different from a regular phone?

With good Internet connection, your friend won’t know the difference. If your connection is slow, you will sound like you are calling from a cellphone with bad signal. Most companies will not install VoIP for dial-up connections.

What is a VoIP service provider?

A VoIP service provider is like a phone company that connects your VoIP phone to your friend’s landline.

What is a VoIP phone?

It looks like a regular phone, but it has a software and modem installed so you can connect to the Internet and make VoIP calls without having to turn on your computer. You dial it like a regular phone, and if somebody calls your VoIP number, it rings like a regular phone.

Are the phone calls really free?

Yes, if you download and install on your computer a VoIP software, like Skype. This will let you make free calls to anyone in the world who has the same software loaded in his or her computer.

You can also use Skype or other VoIP service providers to call a local or long-distance landline number or mobile phone. There will be a small charge, but it is still much cheaper than if you use a regular phone to make your call. In addition, pay features on regular phones-like call waiting, call forwarding, call barring, conference calls, caller ID and voice mail-are usually free on VoIP.

Rates and features vary with different service providers so be sure to ask your company what they offer.

Can I call my friends even if they don’t have VoIP?

Yes.

And can my friends call me?

Yes. Your friends can call your VoIP number in the same way they call a regular landline. You won’t be charged for incoming calls. Your friends will be charged for their call in the same way that they will be charged for calling a regular landline.

Can I keep my old phone number?

Yes, depending on your VoIP service provider. Sometimes, you can even bring your VoIP phone-along with your phone number – to anywhere that has a high-speed Internet connection.

Some providers also allow you to get a phone number with a different area code. You could be in California but have a New York area code so that your business clients in New York can call you without long-distance charges. (However, if your next-door neighbor calls you, it will be long-distance for her.)

Can I get rid of my regular phone line?

Usually, yes. Again, it depends on your VoIP service provider.

An important note, though: 911 calls made through VoIP are unreliable. Also, they will not be able to track your location automatically, as when you are using a regular phone. If you get rid of your phone line, consider using your cellphone instead of your VoIP to call 911.

So, what do I need to use VoIP? A high-speed Internet connection. This means DSL or cable, NOT dial-up. A regular phone with VoIP adaptor OR a VoIP phone OR a computer with a microphone and earpiece. A VoIP service provider.

Can I use VoIP without an Internet connection?

No.

Can I use my computer while talking on the VoIP phone?

Absolutely, although using the Internet for other purposes while using VoIP may affect the quality of your call.

Can I use VoIP without a computer?

Yes, if you have a VoIP phone and your Internet is active.

Can I use VoIP without a VoIP phone line?

Yes, if you have a computer with a VoIP program, a microphone and earpiece.

Will it work in a power outage?

Unfortunately, no.

How do I know if VoIP is for me?

VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who are always on the Internet, and VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who have a high-speed connection.

VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who often make calls to long-distance, international, or mobile numbers.

VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who move around the country, and VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who would like to take their landline number with them wherever they go.

VoIP is a great money-saving option for people who need to have an area code in another locality.

How do I find a VoIP service provider?

For VoIP calls using your computer, you can simply download a VoIP program like Skype or Vonage from the Internet.

To find a service provider for VoIP phones, simply type “VoIP” and the name of your country in the search bar of your favorite Internet search engine.

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Tips On Finding The Right VoIP Broadband Phone Provider

Monday, November 24th, 2008

VoIP phone services are surprisingly hitting the world via a storm. It promises unlimited long distance and local calls as low as 199 dollars a year.

This could represents more than 500 dollars yearly savings compared on using the traditional phone systems. Moreover, VoIP services have a lower monthly fee.

The VoIP interest generated in SMB/SOHO businesses and residential customers gave rise to the different VoIP providers.

However, you should ask yourself first if there is a need for you to use VoIP. There are several factors that can affect your decision such as information acquired from newspapers, television, radios, business owners, or your phone systems needs an update and extra features, or you need to save some money.

VoIP comes in different flavors, sizes, and shapes. It depends upon what the person needs which include specific features such as dial tones, unlimited LD, full VoIP features, and VoIP functionality.

Likewise, it will also depend on the network used and how deep is your knowledge about the technology.

To obtain the best VoIP providers, you must compare and rate them according to your telephony needs. There are important tips that will help you find one.

1. Make an extensive research on the database of various VoIP providers. Choose the plan that best suit your needs. To make this task easier, search VoIP providers through its features, special deals, or calling patterns.

2. Learn how VoIP works. Read VoIP guides and other related phone articles so that you will clearly understand this latest technology that can offer great benefits to you.

- VoIP providers can offer their clients unlimited calling which is favorable for small businesses. There is an appropriate plan that will enable you to save bigger amounts of money ranging to 50% compared in using the traditional phone system. It does not need expensive upgrades with the use of adaptor or SIP enabled IP phones. These providers also support Wi-Fi phones, IP phones, (ATA) Analog Telephone Adaptors, and Multiple Port Adaptors.

- Telemarketing firms also gain benefits from using VoIP. Businesses using multiple telephone lines, on-premise PBX, and other phone systems can integrate VoIP for saving money. The availability of Bulk Plans helps businesses requiring multi-line capabilities with plenty of simultaneous calls.

- Call shops, cyber cafes, and other calling locations paid upon use can also be connected to VoIP networks to enjoy a discounted billing and calling system. In this way, real time bills are acquired. It provides rollover minutes as well as several simultaneous calls to save call times and support peak call times. There are designated countries and minutes that you could select from that will fit your needs.

- An available office phone system that is very affordable with rich features of multi-line VoIP systems uses the Internet in saving money on long distance and local calls. VoIP being integrated to the PBX system can simply connect the VoIP device to the PBX using the analog lines.

3. Read VoIP reviews of different service providers from other readers. This will help you compare the quality of services that was given to previous clients.

4. Check out for the features provided. It is very important that you know how to rate each one according to its importance.

5. Read the latest news concerning VoIP technology and its providers.

6. Purchase VoIp hardware that will fit in your VoIP setup including routers, IP phones and others.

7. Obtain answers to several questions about VoIP. As much as possible read the entire FAQ section as well as dictionary pages. You can post your question in the Forum section if you want clarification for subjects you don’t really understand. Another option is to contact the Ask the Experts section to receive a personal and prompt response.

8. Know the entire Internet broadband access needed upon using the VoIP services. It is necessary to obtain great deals from different broadband providers and choose high quality speed service that is right for you. However, most services that are computer-based are limited only to the provider’s own subscribers. This hinders you to call a phone which is not listed in the same service provider.

VoIP service providers ensure that they can give the best features to their clients.

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Compare Free VoIP And Traditional Phone

Monday, November 24th, 2008

In a family with several children, it’s not very good to compare them with each other. Oftentimes this will result to a feeling of enviousness and rivalry. They would also try to compete for their parent’s attention. Comparing can be very harmful to the kid’s relationship towards each other.

Comparing things can be useful if you’re trying to compare a VoIP service provider. And this goes true even to different businesses offering products and services in order to attract customers; they want to compare their products/services against a competitor. Whichever provider that comes out best will get the fairer share of the market.

This is one reason why all business owners have developed ways to attract prospects, including all VoIP providers. But do you know what VoIP is?

The main technology responsible for internet phones is the voice over IP, more popularly called VoIP. As its name implies, this new technology allows any person to make voice conversations over the IP network.

Through VoIP, a P2P session is established by optimizing protocols as a group. This will result to an uninterrupted stream of digital data carried through the net. The two VoIP protocols which are now widely accepted are the open standards and the session initiation protocol or SIP. Voice signals are continuous in nature, and so it requires this session.

Now, three internet phones are being used, namely: PC softphone , VoIP handset, and the ATA or the analog telephone adapter. The first one is a software that makes use of the computer’s sound card, speakers, and microphone.The VoIP handset relies on your personal computer and is more complex than the first one. The ATA will not require you to have a personal computer because the high-speed internet connection is directly connected to it. These internet phones also have different softwares.

VoIP providers use any of the three phones and software. So if you have preferences especially with the hardware, you have to compare different VoIP providers. By comparing them, you will be able to choose one that has almost all your needs.

The VoIP provider is responsible for the initiation of P2P sessions. Aside from that, they also associate the telephone numbers to different IP addresses, and route VoIP data to other personal computers, to the mobile number or landline number that you’re trying to call.

Although VoIP providers differ in their hardware and software being used, the process of making a call is still the same. They only differ on the hardware’s processing.

Not all people are ready for this new technology. They still compare it with their long-trusted conventional telephone. In comparing these two, the biggest difference lies on the costs. With VoIP, you can surely cut down your monthly phone bills. VoIP is often associated with ‘free’ calls.

VoIP service is well-known for free calls for promotional or trial basis. However, when you sign up for their service, you will be asked to pay low-cost plans to enjoy the service. But this cost is lower than that of traditional phones.

Since VoIP is still new in the market, other people want to rely on their traditional phones for reliable connections and exceptional sound quality.

In doing a comparison between a traditional phone and voice over IP, you can see their advantages and disadvantages over the other. If you try count each of their good and bad aspects, you can come up with a good decision. It’s either you settle for VoIP or remain loyal to your traditional phone.

You alone can compare these two services. If you have a regular phone, why not settle first for a free trial period? Look for a VoIP provider which offers such service, you can find a lot of them on the internet. After the trial period expires, make the decision. Trying it yourself can give you a clearer view of how VoIP works.

If for some reason, you’re not satisfied with the result, then continue with your traditional phone service.

Comparing VoIP and the regular phone service will only be effective if you know what you need in a phone service. Most people who go for VoIP are the ones which want added features on their phone, one that only VoIP providers can provide.

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The VoIP Phone Technology Company In The Philippines

Sunday, November 23rd, 2008

Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP is the revolutionary technology which reinvented the traditional phone system potentials. Voice over IP system works by converting analog audio signals into digital signals so that the digital data are transmitted through the internet. The primary advantage of VoIP phone is that it turns the standard internet in a way where phone calls are free, unlimited or at a very low cost. In addition, many added services are offered by VoIP phone systems that makes it more appealing to the communication needs of the Filipino people.

Through VoIP phone services, the cost of digital calls is reduced or can be offered for free. It is because the system is run through the internet where communication costs are low. Thus, VoIP helps improve personal, business or network relations.

In some ways, VoIP system works like the popular call features of Yahoo and MSN. However, these applications have the disadvantages of crackling sound, echoing and choppy lines which usually occurs. These problems are corrected in the VoIP system.

Basically, the Philippines is a primary choice of the outsourcing countries in almost every line of work. Because of this, VoIP phone system is found to be greatly advantageous for Filipinos with friends and relatives working abroad. The fast growing popularity of VoIP system attracted many companies to the business of VoIP phone service providing.

VoIP services can be categorized into residential or business type. The common VoIP phone companies and features are as follow:

? The Ezezcall Company. This VoIP service provider offers great savings to international and long distance calls anywhere in the world. The Ezezcall services complement the existing local phone system; therefore there is no requirement to change the phone number. The use of the internet connection saves you up to 90% in the call cost comparative to the standard landlines. Plus, Ezezcall also offers high quality of voice transfer which even exceeded the quality of local phone lines. In addition to these, there are a range of affordable monthly package plans to choose from. Ezezcall also does not tie the subscriber into the yearly contract. Plus, the company assures no hidden fees in the bucket.

? Sky Internet VoIP. This VoIP service company also offers a very low international and long distance rates. For up to 85%, you can cut your monthly phone bill without compromising the quality of service. Additionally, Sky Internet features Caller ID, Conference or Three-way Calling, Call Waiting options, Speed Calling and Call Forwarding. The dialing procedures are clearly presented to both the Sky Internet VoIP website and in the installation guide. With the Sky Internet VoIP, communication process is not only made through PC to PC but PC to the traditional phones as well. This VoIP phone company provides extra line which you can use to place and receive calls in other parts of the house or office.

Sky Internet offers irresistible features. It has a very minimal rate for international long distance calls, unlimited calls to local areas, and affordable domestic rates. Added features on call manipulation are similar to that offered by Ezezcall.

? TAKALAM. This VoIP phone company offers the Freedom 200 Calling Plan where the subscriber is provided with the following free advanced features:

For 200 minutes, the subscriber can call anywhere in United States and Canada. And for the extra calls, the subscriber will be charged the minimum eight cents per minute rate. TAKALAM also offers Call Waiting, Call Return, Caller ID Privacy, Anonymous Call Back, Busy number Redial, Speed Dials, Three way Calling, E911 Dialing, Voice Mail and online management of your bills and accounts.

For the business category, EACOMM Corporation provides technological solutions to meet the needs of the client in the regime of the new millennium. EACOMM Corporation has the power to deliver the Information Technology in a fast, accurate and economical manner. This VoIP provider upholds the right of the small enterprises to compete in the world market at an economical access.

Voice over Internet Protocol is the solution to the communication needs of the Philippines. Although the traditional landlines are popularly used, VoIP will help many Filipinos to an affordable access to Information Age.

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VoIP Broadband Phone Service Providers – Knowing Which Provider You Should Choose

Friday, November 21st, 2008

In today’s modern society, people need the telephone in order to communication with their family, friends, and also their business associates and clients. You have to consider the fact that the telephone is one of the most useful inventions ever made.

Since Alexander Graham Bell produced the very first telephone, many people have now been using this kind of communication systems in order for them to communicate.

Today, the telephone system provides much better voice quality than the first telephone. Also, for additional payment, you will be able to get caller ID phones, call waiting, call forwarding, return call and even three way calling. Truly, the telephone is the best communication system ever invented.

The internet is also one of the most useful tools for communication. And, people now use the internet to talk to their loved ones overseas for free instead of using their conventional telephone.

Besides, the internet can provide a way to talk to your family, friends and even your business associates for free and at a very fast rate. With webcams, it will enable you to see the person you are speaking to through the use of the internet and instant messengers.

If you want to send them a letter, you can do so with the email. The internet definitely takes people one step closer to the future of communication.

Today, another kind of communication technology is taking the world by storm. This particular communication system is growing more and more popular each day and many people are now considering replacing their conventional landline phones with this new breed of phone system. This particular technology is called VoIP.

First of all, VoIP works just like your conventional telephone. However, instead of transmitting voice data over wires, VoIP takes advantage of the internet to transmit and receive voice data. This means that your voice is converted to digital signals and is transmitted to the internet. Since your voice is in digital format, what this means for communication is that it will be much clearer and much faster when it reaches the other end of the line. Also, since VoIP uses the internet, communication is much cheaper than conventional landline phones.

With VoIP, you can call your family, friends and even your business partners and associates overseas at a fraction of the cost compared to the cost that are found in conventional landline telephones.

Another great thing about VoIP is that it offers features such as three-way calling, audio conferencing, video conferencing, caller ID, return call, call waiting, call barring and other features as a standard package, which means it’s free unlike in conventional landline where you have to pay extra on your monthly bills for each extra service.

Today, there are quite a few existing VoIP service providers that offer their services. As you can see, VoIP is becoming more and more popular today. You should consider getting in touch with VoIP service providers in your area and ask about their services.

You should consider subscribing in a VoIP service provider that is already serving a lot of people. With this service provider, you will know that there are many satisfied customers who are definitely getting value for their money.

VoIP service providers differ in cost and services. Some charges installation and start-up fees, while others do not. Some offers great deals on free calls, while others charge the usual low-cost long distance and overseas calls.

Most VoIP service providers offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for testing purposes. With this option, you can try out their services and if you are not satisfied, you can claim a refund within the 30-day trial period. You can do this until you find a VoIP service provider in your area that offers high quality services and the best value for your money.

You have to remember that call waiting and other additional features should be included for free. If you find a VoIP service provider that charges for these kinds of services, you should consider looking for another service provider.

Consider that fact that VoIP is still on its infancy. You should expect some hiccups in the services once in a while. However, in the near future, you can expect that the bugs will be fixed and fully functional and great quality VoIP will be available.

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VoIP Service Providers In Michigan

Tuesday, November 18th, 2008

Here is a list of VoIP service providers available in Michigan and their different rates for their services:

• Packet 8 VOIP Michigan – This particular service provider charges $19.99 a month and offers unlimited calls to the US and Canada. On the first month, no fees will be charged. Calls to other subscribers are unlimited and has a return policy of 30 days

• Sunrocket Michigan – This particular service provider charges $24.99 a month and provides unlimited calls to the US and Canada. They also offer 1 extra free number for their subscribers and have a return policy of 31 days if you are not satisfied with their services.

• Iconnecthere Michigan – This VoIP service provider has $6.99 to $24.99 fees a month. The startup includes a free adapter and $30 bonus. You will spend $4.99 for shipping and $29.99 for activation. Unlimited calls to other subscribers are also available and have a 30-day return policy.

• MyPhoneCompany Michigan – This VoIP service provider is at $24.99 a month and offers unlimited calls to US and Canada. The start up cost will be at $29.99 and virtual phone numbers will cost $1.99 each. The company also offers unlimited calls to other subscribers and offers a 14 day return policy.

• Vonage Michigan – You can get VoIP connected at $24.99 a month and unlimited calls to US and Canada. The first month is free and it also includes a free adapter and free calls to Europe. An additional virtual phone number costs $4.99 each and offers unlimited calls to other subscribers. They have a return policy of 30 days.

• Verizon VoiceWing VOIP – This particular VoIP service provider offers a $24.95 fee a month with unlimited calls to US and Canada. When you order their services online, there will be no start up cost and it also offers unlimited calls to other subscribers. They have a return policy of 30 days if you are not satisfied with their services.

As you can see, there are quite a number of VoIP service providers in Michigan. All you have to do is determine which VoIP service provider offers the best services by testing each one first and staying with the one that suits your needs.

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