Less for More: Which VoIP Service You Should Choose

If you are well versed in Internet lingo and trends, then you might have heard of Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VoIP. What is VoIP? VoIP is a method by which you can use the Internet as your phone line, make calls while you surf, and yet spend only a few cents in doing so, whether you’re calling someone next door, or in the next country.

VoIP is relatively unknown, but it is poised to conquer the long distance call market, after decades of high charging. The only problem with VoIP is the voice quality, and the sound quality of the calls, which will usually sound scratchy, as though Internet surfing really is going on while the call is being made. Another disadvantage is that VoIP works only if your broadband connection is working. In the event of a power or connection failure or outage, VoIP cannot be used.

With more advances being made in VoIP hardware and software, however, bad sound and reception, and even cut connections, will be a thing of the past. VoIP will certainly be here to stay.

Using VoIP is highly advantageous, especially for travelers. If you choose to use VoIP, you will be given a virtual phone number you can use in the state or city of your choosing. VoIP has not been stamped with fees and taxes, so you can save money while making long distance phone calls.

But just how much you can save and how many VoIP benefits you can get will depend on your VoIP service provider. There are two main types of VoIP services currently available: hardware-based and software-based VoIP.

Hardware-based VoIP services require only a converter box to connect your phone to your broadband connection. This means that you may have higher voice quality, and your system may be more reliable and versatile, since you can access directory listings and emergency numbers. Moreover, you can call anyone you want even if they do not have their own VoIP hardware.

Software-based VoIP services, on the other hand, operate through your computer and broadband connection. They are best if you have reliable broadband access and a fast computer, although the voice quality will be affected. Software-based VoIP will work only with your computer open and your broadband connection up. Compared with hardware-based VoIP services, however, software-based VoIP is cheaper, and call charges are usually waived if you call other VoIP users.

If you are interested in VoIP, look for the following features and compare prices depending on which features you actually need.

• Calling costs – these will still differ from server to server, so be sure to check if there are any additional costs stamped on long distance, VoIP-to-ordinary-phone-line costs. See which calls will be free, and if you can get a package with free minutes usage.

• Portability – some VoIP services can allow you to take your hardware and use the same phone number if you travel.

• Reliability – since VoIP services will not work without reliable broadband connections, use services that offer high bandwidth.

• Page Listings – a few VoIP services will offer white-page listings and 911 and 411 numbers. These can be useful in emergencies, especially when you can’t get a directory on demand.

• Installation – Do you have the best software and memory in your computer for VoIP? Is your broadband connection fit to handle phone calls? Check your specs first before having any VoIP service installed.

• Other features – Some VoIP services will offer multiple handsets or multiple lines, and, in the future, may even offer Wi-Fi handsets! See if you can avail of these promos through the VoIP service provider.

Gone are the days of high phone bills – and soon, gone will be the days of crackly, low quality VoIP! With more advances being made in broadband technology, we all can one day save money, and still spend the hours connecting to each other.