Are you familiar with VoIP? Short for Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP uses your internet connection to make and receive phone calls. VoIP revolutionized how we communicate with one another in both business and residential settings by transforming digital data to connect to a phone network. Pretty neat, if you ask us!
In a nutshell, VoIP gives users the ability to make and receive free phone calls using the internet. Seems easy enough, right? This is more cost-effective, as you don’t have to worry about partnering with a phone company. As long as you have a computer with an internal microphone and have linked up with a VoIP service provider, you’re good to go.
But how does it REALLY work, you ask? There are several different ways to place a call for starters depending on your needs, network, and setup.
Different Types of VoIP Services.
There are three main types of VoIP services used today:
- ATA (Analog Telephone Adaptor) – This is the most common form of VoIP, in that it allows users to connect a regular telephone to a computer connected to the internet. Basically, it converts the analog signal from your phone into digital data, as we mentioned briefly above. To get started using this method, all you have to do is plug your phone into the ATA software and start calling!
- IP Phones – Another typical VoIP service relies on a specialized phone, called an IP phone. IP phones look just like any other phone, but they feature an ethernet connector that goes into your router. They can also connect via Wi-Fi, an increasingly popular option that gives users the capability to make VoIP calls using a Wi-Fi hotspot from anywhere, anytime.
- Computer-to-computer – Last but certainly not least, a computer-to-computer connection is the easiest way to use VoIP. As long as you have a computer equipped with software, an internal microphone and speakers, a sound card, and a stable internet connection, you are ready to go.
How is Audio Information Transmitted?
When it comes to VoIP calling, audio information can be transmitted using the following:
- Your computer
- A router
- Copper or fiber optic cables
- Using the computer’s codec (a compressed digital form of audio transmission)
Features Included with VoIP Calling.
SIPcity’s VoIP service plans include the following built-in features to make your calls as streamlined and professional as possible:
- Call forwarding
- Call recording
- Hold music
- Voicemail to email
- Call logging
- Simultaneous ring
- Caller ID
- Three-way calling
- Conference calling
- Call transfer
- Call waiting
- Return call
We hope the above provides you with a brief overview of VoIP and how it actually works. As we continue to adapt to remote work, businesses embrace solutions that keep teams connected without breaking the bank. If you are looking for VoIP solutions or need a new VoIP provider, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the SIPcity team.
