What is VoIP?

Voice over Internet Protocol is the most modern solution for creating internal and external business communication platforms. VoIP is the most comprehensive tool for organizations that require scalability and resources to make remote work more productive.

How does Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) work?

VoIP services convert voice into a digital signal over the internet. If you call a regular telephone number, the signal is converted into a regular telephone signal, i.e., an analog signal, before reaching the destination. VoIP allows you to make a call directly from a computer with a special VoIP phone or a traditional telephone connected to a special adapter. Wireless access points in places like airports, hospitals, coffee shops, and so on allow you to connect to the internet and use VoIP services wirelessly.

Equipment needed for VoIP

To use VoIP services, you must:

Have a high-speed internet connection. Internet access can be through a cable modem or a local area network (LAN) and other high-speed services.

Users need compatible devices, such as computers, adapters, or special VoIP phones.

Some VoIP services only work through a computer or a dedicated VoIP phone.

Other services offer the option of using a traditional telephone that comes with a VoIP adapter.

Computer-based testing requires inexpensive software and microphones.

VoIP phones can be connected directly to a broadband connection. They function like traditional telephones.

By using a telephone with a VoIP adapter, users can dial numbers as usual. In these cases, the service can provide a voice call.

Evolution of VoIP service

VocalTech introduced the first VoIP service in 1995. The company introduced the Internet Phone, the first internet-based phone that, aptly named, didn't include any video functionality, and to communicate, both users had to be logged into the same software.

Early VoIP services often suffered from call dropouts and distortion, resulting in a poor user experience. But until Skype's debut in 2003, which made VoIP attractive and useful to mainstream users, the service continued to improve. This made video chats and calls to landlines possible with much better sound quality, all for free.

Millions of office administrators and professionals began working remotely as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which was another boon for the VoIP industry. With teleconferencing becoming the new standard for the typical workplace, VoIP and related services like Zoom became even more important for office management.

Local call vs. long distance call

Some VoIP service providers offer their services free of charge, usually limited to calls made to other customers. You may be able to choose a different area code than your home area code with your VoIP service. This also means that, depending on your area code and service, callers may be charged for long-distance calls. Like traditional phone service, some VoIP companies charge for long-distance calls to numbers outside their calling area. You can make calls anywhere for a set number of minutes and at a predetermined price with other VoIP providers.

If you're concerned about the cost and the hassle of switching, you should know that call rates are considerably lower. In fact, savings are estimated at 40% for domestic calls and up to 90% for international calls. Advanced features included in the system price include call queuing, custom on-hold messages, video conferencing, analytics, ring groups, and more.