But what exactly is VoIP? Simply put, VoIP is a latest technology that allows you to make phone calls over a high speed broadband Internet connection as compared to the traditional analog phone lines.

In other words, VoIP has transformed our computer or laptop into a telephone system. Particularly for individuals, families and small and medium businesses, VoIP has come as a boon. For example, Usha Raman, an Indian born American pursuing her education in Los Angeles, can't think of life without her VoIP phone connection, especially when it comes to connecting with her folks in India. Thanks to the providers offering VoIP services.

Earlier, keeping in touch with her family back home in India used to cost her a small fortune every year. Footing those huge phone bills was becoming a financial burden. Not anymore. With VoIP phone call rates to India costing just 2.9 cents a minute, she can now talk to her parents to her heart's content. As for her connecting with her fianc? in New York is concerned, they talk as much as they want since her VoIP phone offers unlimited calling in the US and he's got one for himself too.

VoIP phones services are vying with each other to offer lower domestic and international calling rates, advanced calling features and top quality services and the customer is benefiting the most from this competition.

In other words, VoIP phone services have helped minimize distances and brought the world closer. Here are some major benefits of VoIP phone:

Saves Money

One of the main advantages of VoIP is the low cost for both short and long distance calls. As compared to normal telephones, VoIP is a lot cheaper. There might be differences in terms of phone call rates between one VoIP service provider and another but the rates will still be lesser than your regular phone service. According to estimates, you can save upto a few hundred dollars every year on your phone bills.

With a VoIP phone service, you can make phone calls and at the same time access all the other programs stored in your computer and surf the Internet as well.

Simple Infrastructure

All you need for setting up a VoIP connection is a computer, sound card, speakers and microphone. And of course your VoIP account.

Flexibility

With VoIP you get to retain the same number even if you change location. You have the option to choose area code for your phone number and you can even have more than one phone number in another state or even another country. These additional features differ between providers.

Portability

Another advantage of VoIP is portability. You can use your VoIP to make and receive phone calls simply by signing in to your VoIP account. This makes VoIP as convenient as e-mail ? no matter whether you are traveling or staying miles away you can talk to your family or business associates for almost nothing.

Additional Features

VoIP users also get to enjoy additional calling features such as Email Alert for Voice Mail, Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Call Waiting, Caller ID, Call Block, Call Return and Do Not Disturb, etc. Some leading digital VoIP phone services offer these features at no additional cost.