VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is simply the transmission of voice traffic over IP-based networks. It is also referred to as IP Telephony, Internet telephony, voice over broadband.

VoIP routes your phone calls using your high speed internet connection. VoIP sends voice information in digital form in discrete packets rather than by using public switched telephone network (PSTN). With VoIP you hear a dial tone and make your phone calls just like your traditional phone service but with better digital quality. A major advantage of VoIP is that it avoids the tolls charged by ordinary telephone service.

VoIP has become popular largely because of the cost advantages to consumers over traditional telephone networks. For Long Distance and International calling, switching to VoIP technology can save you a lot of money.

High Speed Internet Connection

To use VoIP, you must have a high-speed internet connection. Some VoIP service providers high speed internet connection. You can also get high speed cable or DSL Internet connection from your internet service provider.

Types of VoIP Calls

VoIP phone calls can be placed:

VoIP ATA, IP Phones and computer

There are three methods of connecting to a VoIP network:

VoIP ATA: ATA is a device that works as an interface between your PSTN analog phone system and a digital network. ATA is basically an analog to digital converter that will convert the PSTN phone’s analog signals into digital which can be transmitted through your broadband Internet connection.

IP Phones: IP Phones are specialized broadband phones that use Voice over IP technology to transmit voice packet over internet instead of traditional PSTN system. IP Phones come with many features that an analog phone doesn't support. IP phone plugs directly into your router or Ethernet connection.

Computer: You can use VoIP software also known as Softphone to make long distance and international phone calls using your computer. All you need is install VoIP software onto your computer. You should have a microphone, a sound card and speakers on your computer.