VOIP Basics: What Is VOIP? How Does VOIP Work?

What Is VOIP?

The word "VOIP" sounds like some geeky complexity that would confuse any normal person. The truth is, though, that VOIP is actually very simple to understand. What is VOIP? Here is a simple, easy-to-understand definition:

VOIP - an abbreviation for "Voice Over Internet Protocol". VOIP is a technology which allows you to place telephone calls over your internet connection instead of over a standard phone line. Using Voice Over Internet Protocol for your telephone calls can often save you a considerable amount of money.

How Does VOIP Work?

To place a VOIP phone call over your internet connection, you need two things:

• The correct equipment to allow you to place a call over the internet. This equipment will convert your phone call to a digital stream that can be sent over the internet.
• A VOIP service provider to route your phone call to the correct place. Just like with regular phone service, you'll need a phone company to route your calls. The good news is that VOIP service is much cheaper than standard phone service. Finding a VOIP service provider is easy - just go to our compare providers tool and find the right company for you.

The 3 Ways You Can Make Voip Work:

As far as the equipment you'll need to make VIP work for you, there are three ways you can get setup to make VOIP phone calls:

• Use your computer: You can use your computer to make phone calls via your internet connection - your computer will need to have a headset with microphone. You will then need to download VOIP software from the VOIP provider you plan to use. Using your computer is the simplest way to make VOIP phone calls, but it is also the least convenient since you have to put on your headset and sit at your computer to make or receive phone calls.
• Use your regular phone: You can also use your standard phone to make VOIP calls - you'll just need an ATA converter, also called a VOIP adapter. You just plug your phone into the adapter, and plug the adapter into the Ethernet port on your modem/router. This is a simple and flexible option. Many VOIP service providers will include a adapter when you subscribe to their service.
• Use a VOIP phone: you can also purchase a special VOIP phone that will plug directly ino your internet connection. These phones are just like standard phone except that they work with your internet connection - they won't work with a normal phone line.

Now that you know what VOIP is and how VOIP works, Compare VOIP providers and discover how much money you can save by switching to VOIP today!