AfterTek

Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) is a method that is used for taking analog audio signals. It is much like what you would hear when you talk on the phone. With VOIP they are turned into digital data that can be transmitted over the Internet. Many people have never heard of this system and the use for it.

VOIP is able to turn a standard Internet connection into a way to place free phone calls. The great thing about this is that by using some of the free VoIP software that is available to make Internet phone calls, you are bypassing the phone company, and anything they will charge.

VoIP is a revolutionary technology that has the possibility to completely rework the world’s phone systems. VoIP providers like Vonage have been around for a little while and are growing steadily. Major carriers like AT&T have already begun to set up VOIP calling plans in several markets around the United States, and the FCC is looking seriously at the potential ramifications that VOIP service will have.

One of the greatest things about VOIP is that there is not just one way to place a call. There are three different ways in that VOIP service can be used in common use today: One of the most simplest and most common ways that it is used is the use of a device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor). The ATA allows you to connect a standard phone to your computer or your Internet connection for use with VOIP. The ATA is an analog-to-digital converter. It takes the analog signal from your traditional phone and converts it into digital data for transmission over the Internet.

Providers like Vonage and AT&T CallVantage are bunching together ATAs free with their service. All you have to do is pull the ATA out of the box, plug the cable from your phone that would normally go in the wall socket into the ATA, and you’re ready to make VOIP calls. Some ATAs may ship with additional software that is loaded onto the host computer to configure it; but in any case, it is a very straightforward setup.

IP Phones are specialized phones that look just like normal phones with a handset, cradle and buttons. But instead of having the standard RJ-11 phone connectors, IP phones have an RJ-45 Ethernet connector. IP phones connect directly to your router and have all the hardware and software necessary right onboard to handle the IP call. Wi-Fi phones allow subscribing callers to make VOIP calls from any Wi-Fi hot spot.

Computer-to-computer is possibly the easiest way to use VOIP. You don’t even have to pay for long-distance calls. There are several companies offering free or very low-cost software that you can use for this type of VOIP. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and an Internet connection, preferably a fast one like you would get through a cable or DSL modem.

Except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is usually no charge for computer-to-computer calls, no matter the distance. If you’re interested in trying VOIP, then you should check out some of the free VOIP software that is available all over the internet. You should be able to download and set it up in only three to five minutes.