Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) also known as Internet Phone. As denoted by its name, Internet Phone, the main and foremost requirement for VoIP is a good broadband connection. The speed of internet connection determines the clarity and quality of this service. Broadband phones (VoIP) are a relatively inexpensive substitute to normal telephone being used, which makes it very tempting for many individuals and businesses.

Working Principle of VoIP

The working of broadband phone is not like the traditional phone (PSTN). Conventional phone uses circuit-switching method of signal transfer, unlike an Internet Phone. VoIP uses packet switching; it consists of information packets which are made by conversion of analog signals into digital information. With the help of internet, these data packets are transferred to receiver side where they are converted back to analog signal.

Importance of broadband for VoIP phones

When VoIP was introduced, the internet facilities were not as impeccable as they are now. Initially, Internet Phone did face issues related to the poor clarity of voice or severe distortion, inconsistency, etc. These were mainly due to slow speed of a Dial-up connection. So, a reliable and faster broadband connection was greatly needed for a flawless and clear speech over Internet Phone. Faster the broadband speed you have, better will be the quality of call.

Bandwidth comprises of two different types; upload bandwidth and download bandwidth. Upload bandwidth is the amount of data packets sent to internet where as download bandwidth is the quantity of data received from internet. The recommended bandwidth for a superior quality VoIP telephone call is 90 Kbps. In situations when broadband service providers cannot manage it, then there is an option of 60 Kbps or even 30Kbps which will respectively reduce the quality of call. A user must always prefer having 90 Kbps, as this much is required for a high quality call.

Advantages of Internet Phone

The most tempting feature is its cost-effectiveness, especially for international calls. There is no concept of per minute charges or so. VoIP mainly uses internet as a medium to communicate, so vendors charge a flat rate to its customers, regardless of the number of calls being made within a specific time (mostly a month). Apart from calls there are lots of value-added services offered with VoIP like caller ID, conference calling, voice messages, call waiting, call diverting, etc. Such additions are not only better in quality than that of conventional phone, but also very cost-friendly (usually free). Unlike landline, for which you are bound to a physical address, VoIP is very portable. With Internet Phone you are no more bound, you can use your number anywhere around the globe, with the help of computer and internet you can access and use it from anywhere any time.

Important Considerations

With the long list of advantages, a person must also consider few things before getting started with VoIP. Be sure that you have access to good quality broadband connection. User must be well aware of the security measures he needs to take with and prior to the use of VoIP like backup electricity supply, substitute broadband service (incase primary service is down or not available) etc. Prior knowledge of possible problems can always benefit in enjoying a flawless service of Internet Phone.

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