VoIP, also known as Voice Over Internet Protocol, is a mechanism allowing faciliation of telephone calls via the internet. Whilst the technology has been around for decades, only recent advances in the bandwidth capability of internet lines have made it possible. The advent of broadband over narrowband (modem) have led to the more widespread introduction of VoIP.

Especially in the last 5 years, VoIP solutions have grown, practically exploded, in number as high speed broadband has become more affordable and obtainable. Both homes and the corporate world can benefit from VoIP.

Guide to Features and Packages

Homeowners and tenants will normally pay a flat rate per month that is usually inclusive of all calls, be they short or long distance. Some minor installation is required but there are not usually hidden extras. Overall, a VoIP solution should be cheaper than traditional landlines, even in the short to medium term. Additionally, you can expect extra facilities such as call waiting, caller ID and even call filtering.

VoIP technology allows for you to surf the net whilst making a call at the same time. The bandwidth requirements of VoIP are so low that making a phone call will not have a significant impact on your download speeds.

The biggest advantage of a VoIP solution is the extra features and services that are available. Traditional landlines are essentially dumb networks offering little in the way of personalization or customization - simply facilitating an end to end connection. VoIP technology is more "intelligent" and offers real ways to increase productivity, whether for personal or business use.

Whilst lower costs are often cited as big reasons to switch to VoIP, this is not always the case for corporate users - however, the advantages of the extra features outweight the disadvantages of staying put with the current system. The features also allow cost savings elsewhere, as 3rd parties are relied on to a lesser extent. Residential users though will almost always save money with a VoIP solution.

Whilst there are some disadvantages to a VoIP solution (e.g. internet connection failures will mean you lose voice and data systems, as opposed to just data only) reliability will increase as the technology develops and the additional features can equate to dollars saved from increased productivity. Therefore, it is certainly worth doing your research on the field of VoIP.

Commit research especially on the many providers. Whilst there are some offerings that are standard across the board, it is important to read the fine print on every deal because if you do not, you could end up missing a particular feature or paying over the odds for your service and be tied into a long term deal with heavy penalties. Avoid this situation by doing the correct research and remember that the cheapest deal is not always the best ? if your application is business critical, make sure you have an adequate support provision.