What Is VoIP? Talking On The Internet

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is a telephony technology that allows people to talk to each other using just an Internet connection and either the appropriate VoIP client software (such as Skype, Google Talk, and many others) or a suitable VoIP handset.

Skype and Google Talk are part of a class of software known as IM (Instant
Messaging or Internet Messaging) software. The newer breed of IM software is VoIP-enabled. There are also VoIP handsets that can be plugged into your computer - typically the USB port. Some web services exist that allow a VoIP user to talk to a person who is using a regular telephone or cellphone.

So, several types of VoIP interactions are possible:

1. VoIP IM client to VoIP client.
2. VoIP IM client to VoIP handset, and vice versa.
3. VoIP IM client to regular telephone/ cell phone.
4. VoIP handset to regular telephone/ cell phone.

The reason VoIP is so hot (at the time of this writing) is because you can essentially talk to anyone around the world for an essentially unlimited amount of time for very little cost. At least compared to what it would cost you to make the same call from a regular phone/ cell phone to another phone. Your possible costs will include:

1. VoIP client software, if it’s not free (many are).
2. Microphone, to attach to your computer, if your built-in microphone is not of sufficient quality.
3. Headset or headphones, if you want privacy or otherwise do not have speakers attached to your computer.
4. VoIP handset, if you prefer that over talking with a microphone and headset/ headphones.
5. A VoIP provider monthly plan. This is only necessary if you plan to talk to people who are not using a VoIP phone.
6. Internet connection. For good quality calls and low-feedback/ noise, you’ll want a good connection. High-speed or DSL is recommended.

If you’re happy with just using, say, Skype, and already have a good Internet connection, that’s all you really need to start with. You can then talk to anyone else with a free Skype account. Spend more only if you have to, or if you want non-VoIP-enabled contacts to be able to reach. This works because your VoIP monthly provider will give you a phone number (and probably an extension number). When people call you, their voice is converted by the VoIP provider’s computers, then sent to your VoIP phone or IM software.

(c) Copyright 2006-present, Raj Kumar Dash, http://www.chameleonintegration.com/

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