Over the last few years, you've probably heard people talking about VoIP phone service as an alternative to traditional landline service. VoIP, also known as IP telephony, Internet telephony and voice over broadband (VoBB), has become a popular option for both consumers and corporate customers and makes up a large share of the overall phone market. Is VoIP right for you? Read on to find out.
What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol, which means phone service that is transmitted over the Internet, rather than phone lines like traditional landline home phone service. There are many protocols and different types of VoIP service out there, ranging from chat programs you use on your computer, to systems that function exactly like a traditional landline. As broadband Internet service became popular with consumers over the last decade, the VoIP market emerged as a legitimate alternative for phone service.
What are the Different Kinds of VoIP Service?
- Computer Based - These are programs allow you to make calls to other users of the program or traditional phone users from your computer. You call up the program the way you'd call up your e-mail program and place calls using your computer's built in microphone and speakers or a headset.
- Handset Based - This is an option that allows you to make calls with a handset phone through a special adapter device that connect to your Internet connection.
How Do I Use VoIP and What Do I Need?
Depending on which option you choose above, you'll need different things. For both cases, you'll need broadband Internet service to start. If you decide to go with a computer based set-up, you'll need also need a computer that can run the program and some sort of speakers and microphone for your computer. If you go the handset route, you'll need an adapter box (provided by your VoIP provider) and a regular old home phone.
Who Can I Call with VoIP? Who Can Call Me?
For most computer based options, and all handset options, you'll be able to call any phone number you would with your regular phone, including cell phones, landlines and international phones (if you have paid for that option). As far as the party you are calling is concerned, there is no difference. For most computer based options, and all handset options, you will have a phone number anyone can call, just like before.
How Much Does VoIP Cost?
There are a wide range of plans available, ranging from free computer-based programs that only let you call other people using that program to full-fledged handset plans loaded with calling features and long-distance calling. On the whole though, VoIP plans are competitively priced compared to traditional phone plans, with flat-fee monthly plans typically being your least expensive option for home phone service.
What VoIP Providers Are Out There?
For the computer based option, there are a myriad of providers, with Skype being the best known. For handset service, there are many providers, with Lingo and Vonage being the biggest players.
What Are the Advantages of VoIP?
- Price - As we've discussed, VoIP can be very cost-effective compared to traditional phone service.
- Long Distance - While standard local calls are cheap with VoIP, long-distance can be more affordable than traditional phone service, too. VoIP is usually your cheapest option for international calling, with many providers offering special plans for individual countries.
- Additional Calling Features - Many VoIP providers offer advanced calling features that may not be available with traditional phone service yet.
- Portable - If you move, your phone number and equipment will stay just the same.
What Are the Disadvantages of VoIP?
- No Bundle Options - Unlike with landline and cable providers, you won't have the option to bundle your VoIP phone service with your Internet and/or TV service for maximum savings and convenience.
- You Need Broadband - If you currently use dial-up or do not have Internet service at home, you'll need to get broadband service before you can use VoIP.
- Goes Out When Internet and/or Power is Out - Unlike landline phone service, if you lose Internet service and/or power, you won't be able to make calls with VoIP.
- 911 Service - Not all VoIP providers offer 911 service, check with a provider before you order.
- Call Quality - Call quality with VoIP can vary based on your provider, Internet plan, and equipment. While VoIP call quality is generally on par with traditional service, it is possible to end up with poor call quality.
- Complicated Setup - Given it's nature, some VoIP setups can be a little tricky to get up and running, requiring some technical know-how.
Now that you know more about VoIP and if it's right for you, it's time to compare your options. WhiteFence can help you decide which services are right for you home and help find the best deals once you've made a decision. Enter your address above to shop providers and plans for VoIP, landline and bundled phone service.
