VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol is a path breaking invention in the world of communication. It has made communication smoother and much cheaper. Now international calls do not mean high expenditures. All you need is internet connection along with appropriate device, to make web calls anywhere in the world – at any time – and at much reduced costs.
There are many devices in the market today, that provide VoIP facilities. Leading manufacturers like Philips, Linksys, Siemens, Panasonic and Plantronics are churning out new and advanced VoIP devices one after the other. They are coming out with fantastic devices in order to provide maximum features to their consumers. They are trying to punch in more and more user friendly features that make lives more comfortable and more efficient.
VoIP phones are very much in demand these days. Both corporate organisations and individuals are enquiring about the new and better devices in the market and also purchasing the latest models. Some of the latest models available in the market today are: WIP330 Wireless-G IP Phone from Linksys, VoIP4331 MSN Messenger phone from Philips and Gigaset C460 IP DECT VoIP Telephone from Siemens. There are many more advanced phones with VoIP facilities that are equally in demand. You can choose any of them depending upon which device meets your requirements the best.
Some of the common features that almost every model has are:
Support Microsoft Windows. (Version may differ) Support Wi-Fi technology. Common features like Conferencing facilities, Call Wait, Call Transfer and Call Forward, Call Hold and Resume, Call Mute and Caller ID. LCD screen Superb sound quality Increased Stand by time and Talk Time Skype (not all VoIP phones support Skype)
The VoIP phones are available at cost effective rates. However, with some of the leading web stores, you can expect a further cut down on prices. Enjoy high speed internet connectivity and talk at length from home, office, or your favourite joint. Low-cost phone calls at its best!
By: Dennis Jaylon
Posts Tagged ‘Talk Time’
Making Life Better with VoIP
March 28th, 20105 Steps to VoIP
February 16th, 2010
So you’re ready to enjoy unlimited long distance calling and lower monthly phone bills. Well, before you make the switch, here are five steps that will help you get the VoIP plan that is best for you.
Make the Decision
Yes, it is new technology, and sometimes we are scared of the unknown. VoIP technology is on the rise and many high profile computer companies are already switching to VoIP and in return are becoming service providers. AOL, Sprint, and Verizon are offering VoIP as well as Internet Messaging services such as Yahoo, MSN, and AOL IM. First you must come to the decision that VoIP is best for you, your family, or your business needs. Research VoIP on the web and its providers. Talk to people that you know have already made the switch. Once you have made your decision to switch to VoIP, you are ready for the next step.
Choose the Plan that is Right for You
A good idea is to make a written list of your needs, wants, and features in a phone. This will help you compare different plans and choose the service provider that will best fit your needs. If you are looking for residential or business service, make sure that you note that in your list. Residential plans usually come in two forms- basic (which is a certain amount of minutes) and unlimited (which will give you unlimited local and long distance talk time). Business plans can include amenities such as multiple phones, greater minute talk time, greater unlimited calling plans, business features bundled with your plan, faxing and voicemail to your computer capabilities, and extras such as yellow page listings. Check with the company to find the plan that meets your requirements.
Setting up the System
Some service providers will send you the equipment that you need to begin using VoIP. You will first need to make sure that your computer system is compatible with the VoIP service. You will also need to have high speed Internet already installed with your computer. If you are using VoIP for a business or for a call center, it is best to leave the installation to a professional. Installing VoIP for a residence or home office is typically simple enough for most residents to do themselves.
Choosing your Phone Number
One of the best features that VoIP has to offer is the freedom to select your own telephone number. If you just want to transfer your old number to your new VoIP system, check with your service provider before making your final decision. Many VoIP providers will allow you to transfer your phone number.
If you want to select a different area code, this option has many advantages. First, for friends and family members who don’t have unlimited long distance calling, selecting the same area code as them can save them money. They will appreciate being able to call you as if it were a local call.
This strategy is also very beneficial for those whose businesses are targeting specific areas. Say there is a California company, yet they want to increase business in Tampa, Florida. By selecting the Tampa, Florida area code, they can increase sales and productivity by having a local number for customers to call. This also reduces the need for a toll free number.
Install your Features and Accessories
VoIP comes with many features included in your service plan. For residential customers these include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb. Always check with your service provider for a detailed listing of the features included with your plan. For Small businesses, amenities such as multi phone users, free fax lines, and integrating your VoIP and web features are all available. VoIP also contains many of the same features bundled with basic plans as well. When you are choosing a provider, compare their business plans and select the one that best fits your business needs.
As VoIP technology continues to advance, a new array of accessories appears on the market. Today you can choose from VoIP phones, headsets, and even VoIP videophones that work as a web camera incorporating video with your audio.
By: Olivia Tan
