VoIP Reseller Programs - Creating a dynamic reseller channel
by Kristen Kiya
Catering to the communication needs of the SMB (small and medium level businesses) market is not a problem any more. An ever increasing reseller channel is being created and attractive VoIP reseller programs have quite a lot to do with this trend. Several network solution companies have come up that offer innovative reseller programs - programs that act as motivation to enterprises and institutions having second thoughts about entering this highly volatile market.
The VoIP resellers stand to gain in two ways. One, there is a significant increase in their product portfolios. Second, there is a concomitant improvement in the profit margins. The network solution companies also benefit significantly through these deals - they are able to increase the sale of their innovative products pertaining to Internet telephony and create a distinct identity for themselves. In the ultimate analysis, the VoIP reseller programs are instrumental in catering to the needs of small and medium level businesses in the communications domain. Moreover, these reseller programs help in building formidable customer relationships.
There are times when branded VoIP resellers have to accomplish a stipulated number of sales to benefit from such programs. A few of these programs are designed to appreciate the loyalty of existing resellers. Firms having a wide portfolio of marketing and sales collaterals stand to gain from certain other specific IP reseller business opportunities.
The product portfolio is created to accomplish two things. First and foremost, they cater to the needs of the SMBs. Secondly, they enhance the business opportunities for resellers. A relationship value chain is built up - wherein providers of VoIP are responsible to the resellers and the resellers in their turn are responsible to the end users.
The programs come with the best available features that are targeted to take care of SMB needs. Care is also taken to ensure that the installation process is easy and straightforward and there are no inherent risks involved.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Voip service providers - Competing with phone carriers
Voip service providers - Competing with phone carriers
by Kristen Kiya
VoIP services and solutions are becoming innovative with time. Service providers in this domain are launching new solutions aimed at facilitating business processes. In addition, low costs of international calls have had an impact on individual users with many among them making a beeline for the latest VoIP offerings. There is a huge demand for the latest applications of this high-end Internet technology.
Some of the leading VoIP service providers are delivering services that are more than justifying this overwhelming demand. Conditions are being created wherein resellers can offer voice services to their customers - both local and long distance. This trend places the resellers in a position, wherein they are in direct competition with traditional carriers. Resellers availing voice over IP services are therefore opening up possibilities in the telecommunications domain - possibilities that could be explored to the benefit of end users.
Competition with phone carriers is getting more and more intense. As a matter of fact, latest and the best in technology is being used to power high-end telephony services. In most cases, VoIP providers are going into trial runs before a full fledged implementation of the cutting-edge solutions. In addition, many among them are collaborating with established technology brands to make sure that the know-how necessary for successful execution is in place.
Such innovative solutions are increasingly placing the end users and customers in an enviable position. They can now compare the services and prices of local phone companies with the services of VoIP that are being offered and choose the best deals viz-a-viz their specific needs and requirements.
Future business strategies of VoIP service providers is dedicated towards taking this technology to the maximum possible beneficiaries. In the telecommunications domain, the battle for a larger customer share is on.
by Kristen Kiya
VoIP services and solutions are becoming innovative with time. Service providers in this domain are launching new solutions aimed at facilitating business processes. In addition, low costs of international calls have had an impact on individual users with many among them making a beeline for the latest VoIP offerings. There is a huge demand for the latest applications of this high-end Internet technology.
Some of the leading VoIP service providers are delivering services that are more than justifying this overwhelming demand. Conditions are being created wherein resellers can offer voice services to their customers - both local and long distance. This trend places the resellers in a position, wherein they are in direct competition with traditional carriers. Resellers availing voice over IP services are therefore opening up possibilities in the telecommunications domain - possibilities that could be explored to the benefit of end users.
Competition with phone carriers is getting more and more intense. As a matter of fact, latest and the best in technology is being used to power high-end telephony services. In most cases, VoIP providers are going into trial runs before a full fledged implementation of the cutting-edge solutions. In addition, many among them are collaborating with established technology brands to make sure that the know-how necessary for successful execution is in place.
Such innovative solutions are increasingly placing the end users and customers in an enviable position. They can now compare the services and prices of local phone companies with the services of VoIP that are being offered and choose the best deals viz-a-viz their specific needs and requirements.
Future business strategies of VoIP service providers is dedicated towards taking this technology to the maximum possible beneficiaries. In the telecommunications domain, the battle for a larger customer share is on.
VoIP phones - Cost-effective communication. Real time solutions.
VoIP phones - Cost-effective communication. Real time solutions.
by Ben Bradle
The way one can communicate has changed for the better with the introduction and successful implementation of VoIP phones and Internet telephony services. Long distance calls are not costing as much as they used to and subscribers are accruing significant savings in their monthly phone bills.
The world of Internet telephony is amazing to say the least. The voice of the caller is converted into small digital packets and transferred to the other end via the Internet. At the final destination, the digital packets are converted back into analog signals. The entire process of call termination takes place within seconds and users at either end can enjoy uninterrupted conversation in real time. The need for optical fiber wires is done away with and consequently, there is significant cost savings in this process of routing the calls over the Internet.
This type of Internet phone service could either be paid or made freely available. Quite a few service providers exist in the market that offer VoIP phone services to users. Many of the offers are cost effective and ensure full value for money. Potential users could also search for providers that are offering such services, absolutely free. They can then download the dialer from the web pages of the carrier sites. All that they need to do is enter their destination numbers and country codes .... and they are sorted.
Either way, switching to VoIP phones makes a lot of sense. The cost benefits act as an impetus and the easily available options ensure that one does not loose interest in the ongoing initiative. There are quite a few carriers and service providers to help potential users in their journey from traditional phone networks to Internet enabled phone service. However, potential users need to ascertain the quality of service of the carriers that they are subscribing to before committing to using the same.
by Ben Bradle
The way one can communicate has changed for the better with the introduction and successful implementation of VoIP phones and Internet telephony services. Long distance calls are not costing as much as they used to and subscribers are accruing significant savings in their monthly phone bills.
The world of Internet telephony is amazing to say the least. The voice of the caller is converted into small digital packets and transferred to the other end via the Internet. At the final destination, the digital packets are converted back into analog signals. The entire process of call termination takes place within seconds and users at either end can enjoy uninterrupted conversation in real time. The need for optical fiber wires is done away with and consequently, there is significant cost savings in this process of routing the calls over the Internet.
This type of Internet phone service could either be paid or made freely available. Quite a few service providers exist in the market that offer VoIP phone services to users. Many of the offers are cost effective and ensure full value for money. Potential users could also search for providers that are offering such services, absolutely free. They can then download the dialer from the web pages of the carrier sites. All that they need to do is enter their destination numbers and country codes .... and they are sorted.
Either way, switching to VoIP phones makes a lot of sense. The cost benefits act as an impetus and the easily available options ensure that one does not loose interest in the ongoing initiative. There are quite a few carriers and service providers to help potential users in their journey from traditional phone networks to Internet enabled phone service. However, potential users need to ascertain the quality of service of the carriers that they are subscribing to before committing to using the same.
Managed VoIP Services - Enhancing productivity all the way
Managed VoIP Services - Enhancing productivity all the way
by Kristen Kiya
Large corporations having a global presence can use all the support that they get in maintaining their communications infrastructure in an efficient manner. In many such organizations and enterprises, the branch offices are located in different areas of the globe - sometimes the locations are quite remote. Moreover, for people working in these corporations, it becomes necessary to maintain a clear and effective communication channel. A regular dialogue between people working in different branch offices, for instance, becomes important - especially in the context of achieving organizational objectives of enhanced productivity, improved profit margins, and reduction in costs. The importance of managed VoIP services can be understood in this context.
Gone are the days when corporates had to depend on quite a few providers to take care of their needs in the telecommunications domain. The process was cumbersome - to say the least - and the integration of distinct solutions of the different vendors was an added problem that needed to be taken care of. With managed VoIP services or managed partitioning services, there has been an integration of the different applications pertaining to communications hardware, software, carrier services and conferencing facilities. The various pieces are falling into their own place and businesses are running more smoothly. Some of the latest applications in this domain are quite specific and can even be used to measure contact center performance parameters.
There are quite a few advantages of using managed VoIP services. The communication costs can be kept within limits. The latest innovations such as the conference calling solutions can be used to enhance productivity. One could also ensure that the customer service is the very best; calls are being handled in the right manner and with full responsibility.
With a managed network switch provided by VoIP, corporate users can streamline their communications significantly. They can get to benefit from an integrated solution that is available for one monthly fee. High-end capabilities such as audio and video conferencing, process management, and call routing ensure cost efficiency and enhanced productivity for corporate users. Easy deployment of hosted VoIP switches make them valuable.
by Kristen Kiya
Large corporations having a global presence can use all the support that they get in maintaining their communications infrastructure in an efficient manner. In many such organizations and enterprises, the branch offices are located in different areas of the globe - sometimes the locations are quite remote. Moreover, for people working in these corporations, it becomes necessary to maintain a clear and effective communication channel. A regular dialogue between people working in different branch offices, for instance, becomes important - especially in the context of achieving organizational objectives of enhanced productivity, improved profit margins, and reduction in costs. The importance of managed VoIP services can be understood in this context.
Gone are the days when corporates had to depend on quite a few providers to take care of their needs in the telecommunications domain. The process was cumbersome - to say the least - and the integration of distinct solutions of the different vendors was an added problem that needed to be taken care of. With managed VoIP services or managed partitioning services, there has been an integration of the different applications pertaining to communications hardware, software, carrier services and conferencing facilities. The various pieces are falling into their own place and businesses are running more smoothly. Some of the latest applications in this domain are quite specific and can even be used to measure contact center performance parameters.
There are quite a few advantages of using managed VoIP services. The communication costs can be kept within limits. The latest innovations such as the conference calling solutions can be used to enhance productivity. One could also ensure that the customer service is the very best; calls are being handled in the right manner and with full responsibility.
With a managed network switch provided by VoIP, corporate users can streamline their communications significantly. They can get to benefit from an integrated solution that is available for one monthly fee. High-end capabilities such as audio and video conferencing, process management, and call routing ensure cost efficiency and enhanced productivity for corporate users. Easy deployment of hosted VoIP switches make them valuable.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
VoIP services - Some trends
VoIP services - Some trends.
by Kristen Kiya
According to recent market research, large companies are increasingly turning to IP solution providers to cater to their communication needs. They have realized the fact that hosted VoIP services are cost effective and feature-rich. These large players have witnessed many small and medium businesses gaining from these services. Now, they want significant cost savings within their organizational context as well. With this, a large corporation can enjoy the cost advantages and the service efficiencies of voice over IP without having to go all the way to deploy the same. This means that the costs on infrastructure and equipment can be done away with; and the corporate entities can make the most of the applications of VoIP to bring about a significant increase in their profit margins.
VoIP service providers are realizing this new trend and are doing all that it takes to make the most of the enhanced opportunities in this sphere. As it is, the demand from small and medium businesses (SMBs) are getting a bit saturated; there is also intense competition in the area. Moreover, new entities such as cable operators are joining in the bandwagon. Consequently, the emergence of new demand for hosted voice over IP service is always welcome.
Some other industry trends have also been responsible for the wide-spread use of VoIP phone services. For one, the use of broadband Internet has increased over time - a fact that is very much conducive to the deployment of IP telephony - more so in the organizational context. In addition, the costs of making calls with VoIP have become significantly lower as compared to the calls made over the normal telephone networks. This fact is having special significance for corporate clients - especially those having a global presence and offices across different continents. They can now make long distance calls without having to pay exorbitantly for the same. Moreover, they can depend on the voice over IP service providers to cater to their specific telecommunication needs in the best possible manner.
And the best part is that the VoIP service is available over varied broadband types. Moreover, the service providers take care of key parameters such as call quality, audio delay, and reliability to guarantee that the businesses of end users are not hampered. As a matter of fact, a VoIP business phone service is turning to be one of the best alternatives available to even large businesses wanting to make their mark over competitors.
To conclude, it can be stated that voice over IP services - which were being used by small and medium businesses - are now very much in demand among larger and more influential corporations as well. These institutional clients are not going in for the deployment of VoIP at their end. They are however depending on the service providers to cater to their telecommunication needs. With a best service in its kit, a large corporation is able to achieve significant cost advantages; it is also sure of making a definite improvement in its operations. These two reasons are quite compelling for a large corporate client to go the IP way.
by Kristen Kiya
According to recent market research, large companies are increasingly turning to IP solution providers to cater to their communication needs. They have realized the fact that hosted VoIP services are cost effective and feature-rich. These large players have witnessed many small and medium businesses gaining from these services. Now, they want significant cost savings within their organizational context as well. With this, a large corporation can enjoy the cost advantages and the service efficiencies of voice over IP without having to go all the way to deploy the same. This means that the costs on infrastructure and equipment can be done away with; and the corporate entities can make the most of the applications of VoIP to bring about a significant increase in their profit margins.
VoIP service providers are realizing this new trend and are doing all that it takes to make the most of the enhanced opportunities in this sphere. As it is, the demand from small and medium businesses (SMBs) are getting a bit saturated; there is also intense competition in the area. Moreover, new entities such as cable operators are joining in the bandwagon. Consequently, the emergence of new demand for hosted voice over IP service is always welcome.
Some other industry trends have also been responsible for the wide-spread use of VoIP phone services. For one, the use of broadband Internet has increased over time - a fact that is very much conducive to the deployment of IP telephony - more so in the organizational context. In addition, the costs of making calls with VoIP have become significantly lower as compared to the calls made over the normal telephone networks. This fact is having special significance for corporate clients - especially those having a global presence and offices across different continents. They can now make long distance calls without having to pay exorbitantly for the same. Moreover, they can depend on the voice over IP service providers to cater to their specific telecommunication needs in the best possible manner.
And the best part is that the VoIP service is available over varied broadband types. Moreover, the service providers take care of key parameters such as call quality, audio delay, and reliability to guarantee that the businesses of end users are not hampered. As a matter of fact, a VoIP business phone service is turning to be one of the best alternatives available to even large businesses wanting to make their mark over competitors.
To conclude, it can be stated that voice over IP services - which were being used by small and medium businesses - are now very much in demand among larger and more influential corporations as well. These institutional clients are not going in for the deployment of VoIP at their end. They are however depending on the service providers to cater to their telecommunication needs. With a best service in its kit, a large corporation is able to achieve significant cost advantages; it is also sure of making a definite improvement in its operations. These two reasons are quite compelling for a large corporate client to go the IP way.
Move ahead with VoIP Carriers
Move ahead with VoIP Carriers
by Kristen Kiya
Calling over the Internet concept is spreading across the world, which has led to the increase in the demand of VoIP call termination service. Unlike, optical fibers used in Public Switch Telephone Network or PSTN, VoIP helps to transmit a call via the Internet path. The high speed Internet connection is one of the important aspects for continuity of Internet telephony service. The benefits attached to voice over IP have marked its presence in businesses, corporates and among residential users at large. Voice over IP allows its user to send images, video and data application through same line. With greater functionality advantages from carrier services, it allows users to carry global conversation at a lower cost.
Investing in the VoIP carrier service is a profitable business, as no large infrastructural investments are required. To venture in a carrier service, provider requires his own network of VoIP gateway switches to connect PSTN users. Client must look for the carrier provider who deals with wholesale carriers, resellers and business houses. In addition, client must look at the services like:
1.Quality of service: While selecting a carrier provider, client must check the quality of service in terms of presence of switches and routes. The provider with more points will ensure good quality of service. 2.On line Customer support: client must look for provider who offers online technical support around the clock. This will ensure minimum latency in Internet telephony services. 3.Proper guidance: VoIP carrier provider must offer proper guidance to his client especially who are new to this field. Hence, it will lead to better business managements.
Client must avail VoIP services from the reputed carrier provider to avail the latest features like voice mails, call forwarding, Id calling, call waiting and so on. Clients of voice over IP carrier services are provided with varied support functions that are well suited with their needs and requirements.
by Kristen Kiya
Calling over the Internet concept is spreading across the world, which has led to the increase in the demand of VoIP call termination service. Unlike, optical fibers used in Public Switch Telephone Network or PSTN, VoIP helps to transmit a call via the Internet path. The high speed Internet connection is one of the important aspects for continuity of Internet telephony service. The benefits attached to voice over IP have marked its presence in businesses, corporates and among residential users at large. Voice over IP allows its user to send images, video and data application through same line. With greater functionality advantages from carrier services, it allows users to carry global conversation at a lower cost.
Investing in the VoIP carrier service is a profitable business, as no large infrastructural investments are required. To venture in a carrier service, provider requires his own network of VoIP gateway switches to connect PSTN users. Client must look for the carrier provider who deals with wholesale carriers, resellers and business houses. In addition, client must look at the services like:
1.Quality of service: While selecting a carrier provider, client must check the quality of service in terms of presence of switches and routes. The provider with more points will ensure good quality of service. 2.On line Customer support: client must look for provider who offers online technical support around the clock. This will ensure minimum latency in Internet telephony services. 3.Proper guidance: VoIP carrier provider must offer proper guidance to his client especially who are new to this field. Hence, it will lead to better business managements.
Client must avail VoIP services from the reputed carrier provider to avail the latest features like voice mails, call forwarding, Id calling, call waiting and so on. Clients of voice over IP carrier services are provided with varied support functions that are well suited with their needs and requirements.
Skype vs SIP
Skype vs SIP
by Andrey Poshataev
SIP - the open standard, and Skype - closed. But Skype adapts for real conditions better, SIP it is focused on conditions relatives to ideal.
Report SIP, Session Interaction Protocol (RFC 3621) is open by a cavity for developers. It(he) is well enough thought over, and at the present moment is the most popular as it is simple enough for hardware realization and, besides the organization of voice sessions of communication(connection), gives a number(line) of additional opportunities. Into problems(tasks) of report SIP enters only to establish and coordinate communication(connection), and it is not necessary that this communication(connection) was voice is there can be any stream of the data in real time - video, the multimedia data, interactive service.
Commands(teams) of the report remind HTTP, down to separate details.
Key feature SIP is client - server opiented. Here it is meant, that at any network of a SIP-telephony there is a server (GateKeeper).
Report SIP is well focused for work in local networks and on good Internet - channels. But what will take place when the Internet - провайдер on what or the reasons does not wish, that users could carry out bells through SIP? For achievement of the purpose to it "will cut" enough UDP packages with value of port 5060 that SIP has ceased to work normally. There are ways to avoid a similar arbitrariness, however it intervention in work of the report demand, forcing to forget about compatibility with the standard equipment.
The report used Skype always was and continues to remain closed from foreign developers. It has number of features which distinguish it from SIP.
First, report Skype is focused on a p2p-network (Peer-To-Peer.) Skype works by a principle self-organizing distributed(allocated) p2p networks in which there are no constant servers. The role of servers is carried out by the participants of a network having direct IP-address and the wide channel of connection to the Internet.
Second, in report Skype enciphering is without fail applied. It is the compelled measure caused by p2p-structure of network Skype: the traffic passes through units to which should not trust.
Thirdly, Skype has the high resourcefulness allowing it(him) to work even on limited connections to the Internet. Skype it is focused on the broad audience of users of the different countries and interventions in work of a network with the purpose to forbid VoIP for him(it) are less terrible, because it(he) is prepared for this. It is known, that report Skype has ability to find ways to transfer the voice information. For example, if the necessary range of ports of report UDP is closed (usually report Skype uses port UDP 40150), Skype is switched to use of free TCP-ports, down to obviously open 80 ports (HTTP), and if it is necessary, will use connection through HTTP-proxy. It means, that Skype will work practically everywhere where Internet - sites "open".
There are bases to consider, that Skype uses the modified version of the standard SIP-report. In other words, SIP was taken for a basis of report Skype and it is modified, due to what Skype has competitive before operators of a SIP-telephony - cheapness support a user's network and ability to work almost everywhere and in any conditions.
by Andrey Poshataev
SIP - the open standard, and Skype - closed. But Skype adapts for real conditions better, SIP it is focused on conditions relatives to ideal.
Report SIP, Session Interaction Protocol (RFC 3621) is open by a cavity for developers. It(he) is well enough thought over, and at the present moment is the most popular as it is simple enough for hardware realization and, besides the organization of voice sessions of communication(connection), gives a number(line) of additional opportunities. Into problems(tasks) of report SIP enters only to establish and coordinate communication(connection), and it is not necessary that this communication(connection) was voice is there can be any stream of the data in real time - video, the multimedia data, interactive service.
Commands(teams) of the report remind HTTP, down to separate details.
Key feature SIP is client - server opiented. Here it is meant, that at any network of a SIP-telephony there is a server (GateKeeper).
Report SIP is well focused for work in local networks and on good Internet - channels. But what will take place when the Internet - провайдер on what or the reasons does not wish, that users could carry out bells through SIP? For achievement of the purpose to it "will cut" enough UDP packages with value of port 5060 that SIP has ceased to work normally. There are ways to avoid a similar arbitrariness, however it intervention in work of the report demand, forcing to forget about compatibility with the standard equipment.
The report used Skype always was and continues to remain closed from foreign developers. It has number of features which distinguish it from SIP.
First, report Skype is focused on a p2p-network (Peer-To-Peer.) Skype works by a principle self-organizing distributed(allocated) p2p networks in which there are no constant servers. The role of servers is carried out by the participants of a network having direct IP-address and the wide channel of connection to the Internet.
Second, in report Skype enciphering is without fail applied. It is the compelled measure caused by p2p-structure of network Skype: the traffic passes through units to which should not trust.
Thirdly, Skype has the high resourcefulness allowing it(him) to work even on limited connections to the Internet. Skype it is focused on the broad audience of users of the different countries and interventions in work of a network with the purpose to forbid VoIP for him(it) are less terrible, because it(he) is prepared for this. It is known, that report Skype has ability to find ways to transfer the voice information. For example, if the necessary range of ports of report UDP is closed (usually report Skype uses port UDP 40150), Skype is switched to use of free TCP-ports, down to obviously open 80 ports (HTTP), and if it is necessary, will use connection through HTTP-proxy. It means, that Skype will work practically everywhere where Internet - sites "open".
There are bases to consider, that Skype uses the modified version of the standard SIP-report. In other words, SIP was taken for a basis of report Skype and it is modified, due to what Skype has competitive before operators of a SIP-telephony - cheapness support a user's network and ability to work almost everywhere and in any conditions.
VOIP - What is it, and will it really save me money?
VOIP - What is it, and will it really save me money?
by Rob Parker
Whether in a business or personal context, odds are good that you have heard of VOIP. The idea of VOIP is very appealing and many companies suggest that using this technology will save you money. In this article we take a look at what exactly VOIP is, and whether or not it will actually save a person money.
VOIP defined
VOIP is an acronym that stands for voice over internet protocol. Like a lot of these terms, it is fairly easy to understand if you add a few more words to the short hand; in this case, it seems more straightforward to refer to it as voice transmitted over the Internet. In effect, this is exactly what VOIP is; the use of the Internet to transmit voice in the same way you would use a telephone.
If one looks at the advancements in technology over the last ten years, VOIP and its widespread usage seem fairly inevitable. In fact, some of the advantages of VOIP are probably obvious right away; there is a great potential to do away with costly phone services, including long distance charges, in the near future. This is exactly what companies are marketing today, trying to persuade companies and individuals to use this service, but will it really save you money?
The answer
In our opinion, VOIP has a vast potential for saving the user money, although in many cases this potential is not realized. For example, one wonders why, when VOIP technology is offered for free by companies such as Skype, companies would try to sell this service at all. In fact most computer users with a headset have been taking advantage of this technology for several years, most of the time for free. So if you have to pay an additional cost for your VOIP service, it's probably not worth it.
Additionally, VOIP has not yet reached a stage where users can do away with their landlines and the contingent costs for good. For one thing, emergency VOIP calls are unreliable and 911 still needs to be used over a landline. For another, there are often delays in transmitting VOIP messages, delays that can be frustrating and may lead to confusion, particularly in the business environment. If you hold to the adage that time is money, then VOIP may cost you more than your phone line (which at any rate, you probably will have to keep paying for).
In conclusion, we will say that when VOIP has advanced sufficiently, it will have the potential to save individuals and businesses money. However, as with anything else, it is likely that the companies running the phone lines and other communication mediums will charge according to the demand for the service, so it's not likely that a good VOIP program will always be available at a price lower than that of a modern phone line.
by Rob Parker
Whether in a business or personal context, odds are good that you have heard of VOIP. The idea of VOIP is very appealing and many companies suggest that using this technology will save you money. In this article we take a look at what exactly VOIP is, and whether or not it will actually save a person money.
VOIP defined
VOIP is an acronym that stands for voice over internet protocol. Like a lot of these terms, it is fairly easy to understand if you add a few more words to the short hand; in this case, it seems more straightforward to refer to it as voice transmitted over the Internet. In effect, this is exactly what VOIP is; the use of the Internet to transmit voice in the same way you would use a telephone.
If one looks at the advancements in technology over the last ten years, VOIP and its widespread usage seem fairly inevitable. In fact, some of the advantages of VOIP are probably obvious right away; there is a great potential to do away with costly phone services, including long distance charges, in the near future. This is exactly what companies are marketing today, trying to persuade companies and individuals to use this service, but will it really save you money?
The answer
In our opinion, VOIP has a vast potential for saving the user money, although in many cases this potential is not realized. For example, one wonders why, when VOIP technology is offered for free by companies such as Skype, companies would try to sell this service at all. In fact most computer users with a headset have been taking advantage of this technology for several years, most of the time for free. So if you have to pay an additional cost for your VOIP service, it's probably not worth it.
Additionally, VOIP has not yet reached a stage where users can do away with their landlines and the contingent costs for good. For one thing, emergency VOIP calls are unreliable and 911 still needs to be used over a landline. For another, there are often delays in transmitting VOIP messages, delays that can be frustrating and may lead to confusion, particularly in the business environment. If you hold to the adage that time is money, then VOIP may cost you more than your phone line (which at any rate, you probably will have to keep paying for).
In conclusion, we will say that when VOIP has advanced sufficiently, it will have the potential to save individuals and businesses money. However, as with anything else, it is likely that the companies running the phone lines and other communication mediums will charge according to the demand for the service, so it's not likely that a good VOIP program will always be available at a price lower than that of a modern phone line.
Tucson Business: VoIP is it better than Traditional Telecommunications ?
Tucson Business: VoIP is it better than Traditional Telecommunications ?
by Keith Gill
VoIP is Better, Cheaper, less resource intensive, and still presently tax free (although I see that changing in the near future)
The arrival of VoIP has changed the landscape of telecommunications for everyone in the industry. The quality of the new internet technology, when it is good, is far superior to land line calls. When it’s bad it has more to do with the lack of control of VoIP packets traversing the public Internet to deliver it’s service.
Vonage, Lingo, Packet 8, and XO communications are huge, highly marketed VoIP providers focusing both on the residential market and commercial business market. These companies suffer a lot of abuse talking about voice quality and over all quality of service in general. Although some of this abuse may be justified due to poor infrastructure planning most of the quality of service issues are due to relying on the public internet to deliver it’s voice packets. No one can predict what will happen to a VoIP voice packet once it leaves the controlled enviroment of the providers network and ventures out into the wild west of the uncontrolled public internet.
VoIP works best when the service is delivered over a private network without having to traverse the public internet. Simply Bits in Tucson AZ has built out the largest privately owned VoIP and broadband network in southern Arizona.
Simply Bits is able to deliver its VoIP service to all businesses in southern AZ without having to have the VoIP voice packets traverse the public internet. What this equates to is VoIP the way it is supposed to be… Superior voice quality, with far more versatility, features and less overall cost than traditional telecommunications legacy copper line solutions.
The traditional telephone communication companies have been locked in a time warp. Many of the older companies still have a small bandwidth of only 300 to 3400 hertz and a limited dynamic range of around 50 to 60 decibels (compare that to a typical hi-fi sound system that spans 18,000 to 20,000 hertz with a dynamic range of around 100 decibels).
VoIP may force these leopards to change their spots. The typical bandwidth spans over 50 to 7000 hertz, but it can extend as high as 14k hertz. The dynamic range is also good. If the providers ever get VoIP service to a consistent delivery, there is no doubt that the quality will win out even the biggest skeptics.
Legacy, copper wire business telecom solutions are inherently inferior for one simple reason. A single point of failure because it has to use a physical "wire".
Wires are good for mending fences and straightening teeth.
In this day and age a wire in the ground or in the air supplying Voice and Data services to a business with mission critical applications is out-dated and borderline reckless.
Sometimes a wire in the ground is just begging to be inadvertently cut...This usually happens at the worst time possible...Like in the middle of credit card transactions during the busy holiday season...
Can you really afford to depend on an out-dated copper wire?
VoIP is "virtual" and delivered via an ethernet connection. It runs over the bandwidth connection that you run your internal network on that gives you access to the internet.
VoIP and traditional telecommunications are worlds apart when it comes to sound. Traditional calls are like using a hand held FM radio compared to the VOIP which is more like a large hi-fi system.
VoIP still has a ways to go before it dominates the telecommunications industry. When it is good, it is the best thing available to subscribers. The problem is that it is not always good when it is delivered via the public internet as it’s backbone (someithing Simply Bits of Tucson AZ has eliminated). When VoIP voice packets are delivered via the public internet and the quality of service is bad,.. it is bad, and you wouldn’t want to be on an important phone call, that’s for sure.
Find out why Simply Bits of Tucson has solved this problem and can deliver VoIP the way it is meant to be....A superior solution.
by Keith Gill
VoIP is Better, Cheaper, less resource intensive, and still presently tax free (although I see that changing in the near future)
The arrival of VoIP has changed the landscape of telecommunications for everyone in the industry. The quality of the new internet technology, when it is good, is far superior to land line calls. When it’s bad it has more to do with the lack of control of VoIP packets traversing the public Internet to deliver it’s service.
Vonage, Lingo, Packet 8, and XO communications are huge, highly marketed VoIP providers focusing both on the residential market and commercial business market. These companies suffer a lot of abuse talking about voice quality and over all quality of service in general. Although some of this abuse may be justified due to poor infrastructure planning most of the quality of service issues are due to relying on the public internet to deliver it’s voice packets. No one can predict what will happen to a VoIP voice packet once it leaves the controlled enviroment of the providers network and ventures out into the wild west of the uncontrolled public internet.
VoIP works best when the service is delivered over a private network without having to traverse the public internet. Simply Bits in Tucson AZ has built out the largest privately owned VoIP and broadband network in southern Arizona.
Simply Bits is able to deliver its VoIP service to all businesses in southern AZ without having to have the VoIP voice packets traverse the public internet. What this equates to is VoIP the way it is supposed to be… Superior voice quality, with far more versatility, features and less overall cost than traditional telecommunications legacy copper line solutions.
The traditional telephone communication companies have been locked in a time warp. Many of the older companies still have a small bandwidth of only 300 to 3400 hertz and a limited dynamic range of around 50 to 60 decibels (compare that to a typical hi-fi sound system that spans 18,000 to 20,000 hertz with a dynamic range of around 100 decibels).
VoIP may force these leopards to change their spots. The typical bandwidth spans over 50 to 7000 hertz, but it can extend as high as 14k hertz. The dynamic range is also good. If the providers ever get VoIP service to a consistent delivery, there is no doubt that the quality will win out even the biggest skeptics.
Legacy, copper wire business telecom solutions are inherently inferior for one simple reason. A single point of failure because it has to use a physical "wire".
Wires are good for mending fences and straightening teeth.
In this day and age a wire in the ground or in the air supplying Voice and Data services to a business with mission critical applications is out-dated and borderline reckless.
Sometimes a wire in the ground is just begging to be inadvertently cut...This usually happens at the worst time possible...Like in the middle of credit card transactions during the busy holiday season...
Can you really afford to depend on an out-dated copper wire?
VoIP is "virtual" and delivered via an ethernet connection. It runs over the bandwidth connection that you run your internal network on that gives you access to the internet.
VoIP and traditional telecommunications are worlds apart when it comes to sound. Traditional calls are like using a hand held FM radio compared to the VOIP which is more like a large hi-fi system.
VoIP still has a ways to go before it dominates the telecommunications industry. When it is good, it is the best thing available to subscribers. The problem is that it is not always good when it is delivered via the public internet as it’s backbone (someithing Simply Bits of Tucson AZ has eliminated). When VoIP voice packets are delivered via the public internet and the quality of service is bad,.. it is bad, and you wouldn’t want to be on an important phone call, that’s for sure.
Find out why Simply Bits of Tucson has solved this problem and can deliver VoIP the way it is meant to be....A superior solution.
Friday, December 21, 2007
VoIP Solution Providers: grab the best
VoIP Solution Providers: grab the best
by Kristen Kiya
To bring revolution in highly advanced technologically world, product or services should come up with innumerable benefits that must insist the user to opt for it. For instance, to rule the public switch telephony network, VoIP services is bringing the World under it; by offering unlimited local and distance calling at substantial cost, high voice quality with reliability and security, quality network and efficient network. So, if you are looking for the best services by the VoIP solution provider who can help you in offering VoIP then go for search and research. The VoIP provider will its user a wholesale carrier services, reseller programs and business solution to their clients from the various sectors of the industry.
User can easily avail VoIP solutions in any organization irrespective of the kind of service that providers are offering as they are highly flexible. With business VoIP solutions, you can easily raise the productivity of any corporate, contact centers or Internet service providers. Usually, considering the unique requirement of different sectors VoIP solutions are specifically designed.
While searching for the best VoIP solution provider, user may come across many but the services that they provide are the same with little variations. Like voice quality provided by the VoIP solution provider can vary; though quality can be checked with average call duration ACD. The ACD shows how long the call was connected; it should be at least for 4-5minutes. Moreover, Average Success ratio ASR is also checked; ASR means after how long the call got connected; thus, ASR should range between 40-50%. lastly, Post duration delay PDD, should range between 3-4 seconds; PDD is the time between the call dialed and first ring.
No, doubt, VoIP solution providers will offers unlimited local and distance calling at substantial cost, high voice quality but selection from the cluster of VoIP providers must be the best. For every sector in the industry VoIP solutions are designed that can integrate with the organization.
by Kristen Kiya
To bring revolution in highly advanced technologically world, product or services should come up with innumerable benefits that must insist the user to opt for it. For instance, to rule the public switch telephony network, VoIP services is bringing the World under it; by offering unlimited local and distance calling at substantial cost, high voice quality with reliability and security, quality network and efficient network. So, if you are looking for the best services by the VoIP solution provider who can help you in offering VoIP then go for search and research. The VoIP provider will its user a wholesale carrier services, reseller programs and business solution to their clients from the various sectors of the industry.
User can easily avail VoIP solutions in any organization irrespective of the kind of service that providers are offering as they are highly flexible. With business VoIP solutions, you can easily raise the productivity of any corporate, contact centers or Internet service providers. Usually, considering the unique requirement of different sectors VoIP solutions are specifically designed.
While searching for the best VoIP solution provider, user may come across many but the services that they provide are the same with little variations. Like voice quality provided by the VoIP solution provider can vary; though quality can be checked with average call duration ACD. The ACD shows how long the call was connected; it should be at least for 4-5minutes. Moreover, Average Success ratio ASR is also checked; ASR means after how long the call got connected; thus, ASR should range between 40-50%. lastly, Post duration delay PDD, should range between 3-4 seconds; PDD is the time between the call dialed and first ring.
No, doubt, VoIP solution providers will offers unlimited local and distance calling at substantial cost, high voice quality but selection from the cluster of VoIP providers must be the best. For every sector in the industry VoIP solutions are designed that can integrate with the organization.
VoIP reseller Program: choosing the best program
VoIP reseller Program: choosing the best program
by Kristen Kiya
Reason to applaud for VoIP termination service that have given innumerable VoIP business reseller opportunities to explore with its high-end competitor PSTN services. The VoIP reseller ensures that their services reaches to each and every end user who have opted for it. So, to make their services accessible to wide range; VoIP resellers offers value added VoIP resellers programs to sell their technology by creating essential links with the wholesalers and the users.
VoIP resellers make the most of VoIP reseller programs that are affordable and easier to resell their promising technology. Well, VoIP resellers provide complete infrastructure to terminate calls in addition to initial capital requirements. VoIP resellers offers two types of programs namely standard and platinum or white label IP telephony program. Depending upon the requirement and benefits of the business any user after analysis can opt for the one.
While opting for the standard IP telephony program user can avail various advantages like low cost of usage as VoIP provider will provide you the infrastructure and hardware which will low down the cost of investing large sum of money. In the standard program, reseller can avail the maximum benefits with the minimum investment; so it can be said that resellers profits will be controlled by him only. Online real time billing feature provides the reseller to evaluate client's account online, accompanied with the other benefits. Other then this, you can freely decide on the call tariff depending upon the service providers that you have opted for. With this, without any interference from the providers end, reseller can easily decide upon its profit margins. Although, in comparison to Platinum reseller program, reseller are provided the additional advantage of re-branding the services with their own owned brand name.
The VoIP resellers programs are highly beneficial for those who are looking to switch over to VoIP services without worrying more about the large investments.
by Kristen Kiya
Reason to applaud for VoIP termination service that have given innumerable VoIP business reseller opportunities to explore with its high-end competitor PSTN services. The VoIP reseller ensures that their services reaches to each and every end user who have opted for it. So, to make their services accessible to wide range; VoIP resellers offers value added VoIP resellers programs to sell their technology by creating essential links with the wholesalers and the users.
VoIP resellers make the most of VoIP reseller programs that are affordable and easier to resell their promising technology. Well, VoIP resellers provide complete infrastructure to terminate calls in addition to initial capital requirements. VoIP resellers offers two types of programs namely standard and platinum or white label IP telephony program. Depending upon the requirement and benefits of the business any user after analysis can opt for the one.
While opting for the standard IP telephony program user can avail various advantages like low cost of usage as VoIP provider will provide you the infrastructure and hardware which will low down the cost of investing large sum of money. In the standard program, reseller can avail the maximum benefits with the minimum investment; so it can be said that resellers profits will be controlled by him only. Online real time billing feature provides the reseller to evaluate client's account online, accompanied with the other benefits. Other then this, you can freely decide on the call tariff depending upon the service providers that you have opted for. With this, without any interference from the providers end, reseller can easily decide upon its profit margins. Although, in comparison to Platinum reseller program, reseller are provided the additional advantage of re-branding the services with their own owned brand name.
The VoIP resellers programs are highly beneficial for those who are looking to switch over to VoIP services without worrying more about the large investments.
VoIP Reseller - The right path towards VoIP business reseller opportunities
VoIP Reseller - The right path towards VoIP business reseller opportunities
by Kristen Kiya
Spectacular gains in productivity and significant savings in terms of costs are motivating many businesses to avail VoIP services and solutions. The traditional voice system is increasingly giving way to VoIP systems and IP based solutions. The importance of VoIP resellers can be understood in this context.
VoIP resellers are an important link in the VoIP reseller services value chain. The VoIP resellers ensure that the VoIP services reach end-users in more instances than one. They offer call termination services to users in different parts of the world. The VoIP reseller services make the most of the existing VoIP reseller business opportunities that are replete in this very "niche" market segment.
A few words on the profile of a VoIP reseller. A business having an established customer base in a particular geographical area could become a VoIP reseller. A technical knowledge about the VoIP domain is not required. Neither does a potential reseller need to make a large investment in terms of money or time. Resellers could make the most of VoIP reseller programs, wherein complete infrastructure to terminate calls are provided for. The initial capital requirements are done away with as all the equipment and infrastructure are delivered by the service providers.
In VoIP reseller services, telephony lines could be integrated with VoIP call termination services at industry leading costs. The savings so accrued could be passed over to end users through guaranteeing them a reduced tariff structure. Because of the reseller VoIP services, VoIP solutions are increasingly becoming extremely popular and user-friendly the world over.
Potential customers for VoIP resellers could be small and middle level businesses that are committed to increasing their organizational productivity. As a matter of fact, there is no dearth of business opportunities in VoIP reseller services. Businesses from different domains are joining in the band wagon and the competition is expected to become more intense in the near future.
by Kristen Kiya
Spectacular gains in productivity and significant savings in terms of costs are motivating many businesses to avail VoIP services and solutions. The traditional voice system is increasingly giving way to VoIP systems and IP based solutions. The importance of VoIP resellers can be understood in this context.
VoIP resellers are an important link in the VoIP reseller services value chain. The VoIP resellers ensure that the VoIP services reach end-users in more instances than one. They offer call termination services to users in different parts of the world. The VoIP reseller services make the most of the existing VoIP reseller business opportunities that are replete in this very "niche" market segment.
A few words on the profile of a VoIP reseller. A business having an established customer base in a particular geographical area could become a VoIP reseller. A technical knowledge about the VoIP domain is not required. Neither does a potential reseller need to make a large investment in terms of money or time. Resellers could make the most of VoIP reseller programs, wherein complete infrastructure to terminate calls are provided for. The initial capital requirements are done away with as all the equipment and infrastructure are delivered by the service providers.
In VoIP reseller services, telephony lines could be integrated with VoIP call termination services at industry leading costs. The savings so accrued could be passed over to end users through guaranteeing them a reduced tariff structure. Because of the reseller VoIP services, VoIP solutions are increasingly becoming extremely popular and user-friendly the world over.
Potential customers for VoIP resellers could be small and middle level businesses that are committed to increasing their organizational productivity. As a matter of fact, there is no dearth of business opportunities in VoIP reseller services. Businesses from different domains are joining in the band wagon and the competition is expected to become more intense in the near future.
VoIP Solutions in the Calling Center Environs
VoIP Solutions in the Calling Center Environs
by Kristen Kiya
Call centers have become an important part of any modern business activity. From e-commerce sites to brick-and-mortar companies - entities from different backgrounds gain significantly through the support of modern day call centers. And within this call center environment, the customer care capabilities as well as the productivity of individual employees can be improved significantly by resorting to VoIP solutions.
The benefits of switching to VoIP solutions is there for all to see. With convergence of voice, video and data networks, there is a significant reduction of costs as well as increase in corporate agility. Regional calling charges are not applicable to VoIP calls. Companies having business interests in different parts of the globe can thereby accrue the economic benefits of lower calls charges - significant by any counts.
To cater to the increasing demand from calling centers and other businesses, VoIP business solutions conforming to industry hardware and software standards are being designed and developed. A "standard" format means that different manufacturers from varied backgrounds can benefit from the common interfaces and make the most of advanced solution VoIP. An easy integration of these solutions with the existing infrastructure makes them all the more valuable.
And the best part is that the VoIP solutions are easy to implement, especially within the call center environs. Telephone signals are converted into digitally compressed information packets through a gateway server. Internet Protocol (IP) is then used to route the packets on a private or a public network. The incoming packets are received through a gateway at the other end, and the information packets are decompressed at this stage. A receiver's telephone network is then used to distribute the telephone signals.
Call center users could implement VoIP technology through multiline PCI cards plugged into their desktop computers. PC-based phone switching systems are readily available in the market, wherein basic PBX functions are augmented through premium services pertaining to data safety, accessibility and relability. The management and operating system software that needs to be selected would depend on specific applications. In general, however, the LINUX or the Windows NT/2000 is the common choice.
Corporate business enable call centers to distribute their calls automatically. Many of the VoIP solutions come with automatic call distributor (ACD) convenience. This and other such equally innovative applications enable users to handle incoming calls dynamically. Centralized remote management of individual calls is another possibility that could be explored. Moreover, the VoIP solutions that are used in the calling centers are empowered with complex skill-based call routing as well as and data and call management.
To conclude, it can be stated that the current and next generation VoIP solutions that offer real time voice and fax information over the Internet, are facilitating the call center businesses and empowering them to stay ahead.
by Kristen Kiya
Call centers have become an important part of any modern business activity. From e-commerce sites to brick-and-mortar companies - entities from different backgrounds gain significantly through the support of modern day call centers. And within this call center environment, the customer care capabilities as well as the productivity of individual employees can be improved significantly by resorting to VoIP solutions.
The benefits of switching to VoIP solutions is there for all to see. With convergence of voice, video and data networks, there is a significant reduction of costs as well as increase in corporate agility. Regional calling charges are not applicable to VoIP calls. Companies having business interests in different parts of the globe can thereby accrue the economic benefits of lower calls charges - significant by any counts.
To cater to the increasing demand from calling centers and other businesses, VoIP business solutions conforming to industry hardware and software standards are being designed and developed. A "standard" format means that different manufacturers from varied backgrounds can benefit from the common interfaces and make the most of advanced solution VoIP. An easy integration of these solutions with the existing infrastructure makes them all the more valuable.
And the best part is that the VoIP solutions are easy to implement, especially within the call center environs. Telephone signals are converted into digitally compressed information packets through a gateway server. Internet Protocol (IP) is then used to route the packets on a private or a public network. The incoming packets are received through a gateway at the other end, and the information packets are decompressed at this stage. A receiver's telephone network is then used to distribute the telephone signals.
Call center users could implement VoIP technology through multiline PCI cards plugged into their desktop computers. PC-based phone switching systems are readily available in the market, wherein basic PBX functions are augmented through premium services pertaining to data safety, accessibility and relability. The management and operating system software that needs to be selected would depend on specific applications. In general, however, the LINUX or the Windows NT/2000 is the common choice.
Corporate business enable call centers to distribute their calls automatically. Many of the VoIP solutions come with automatic call distributor (ACD) convenience. This and other such equally innovative applications enable users to handle incoming calls dynamically. Centralized remote management of individual calls is another possibility that could be explored. Moreover, the VoIP solutions that are used in the calling centers are empowered with complex skill-based call routing as well as and data and call management.
To conclude, it can be stated that the current and next generation VoIP solutions that offer real time voice and fax information over the Internet, are facilitating the call center businesses and empowering them to stay ahead.
VoIP Service Providers: How To Find The Right One?
VoIP Service Providers: How To Find The Right One?
by Ara Rubyan
Traditional phone service can't offer what VoIP offers -- and that's the reason why VoIP is growing so fast. Not only that: VoIP offers everything that your phone service offers today. And you'll pay less when you go this route. It shouldn't come as a surprise that VoIP is fundamentally remaking the way we all look at -- and use -- our telephones. Whether you are a business owner or simply a homeowner, it is a very viable alternative for nearly everyone.
For example, long distance calls are going to be free or nearly free on VoIP phone systems. This is because VoIP uses the Internet to send your voice messaging. And another thing: Wherever you go, as long as you have an Internet connection, you can have VoIP service. As I said before, VoIP service offers the sorts of features that we were used to paying extra for.
Here are some things that you should investigate when you're choosing a VoIP service provider:
Does it sound good?
Today's technology delivers excellent audio while greatly cutting down on noise. Expect the best from your VoIP service provider. Make a test call before you make any commitments. If you hear any kind of lag, or any kind of delay in your phone call, then that VoIP service provider is probably not for you.
If you think I'm exaggerating, think about a one second delay and what it can mean. It could mean that the person you are talking to is hesitating for some unknown reason. It could mean that the person you are talking to doesn't understand what you are saying, or is simply confused. Or it could mean that you have a slow Internet connection. Before you commit to VoIP service, eliminate the possibility that the delay is due to technical reasons.
Will It Be There When You Need It?
Business owners know: if your phone goes out in the middle of a conference call, you're losing customers. Even worse: if there are 10 people on the line at your office and 10 at the other locations. Even a 15 minute outage equals five man-hours of productivity lost. So don't cut corners with your VoIP service provider. Pay a little bit more and get top-notch, reliable service.
How's the customer service?
It should go without saying that your VoIP service provider should give you 24/7 customer support. Not only that: you shouldn't have to wait on hold -- you should be able to get a straight answer quickly. Look for a VoIP service provider that offers alternate modes of tech support, like live chat.
What Sorts of Features Are Available?
Your VoIP service provider should be able to give you all the standard features that you're accustomed to PLUS free long distance calls, e-mail, fax, Web conferencing, even videophone for no extra fee at all. Some VoIP service providers may not be able to deliver, instead charging you extra for these features. Be sure of what you want -- and ask for it -- before making a final decision on whom to go with.
...and speaking of price
We all feel that VoIP should be free or very cheap. At the very least you should be able to get free long distance and a low monthly service charge. But make sure you're getting more than you pay for. A low price with low voice quality is not a good value. If your VoIP service provider offers a trial, take advantage of it to make sure that you're getting your money's worth.
Despite the upside potential, be aware that there are some negatives to VoIP. For one thing, you still have to have high-speed Internet -- or be capable of it -- for VoIP phone service to work. If you have a power outage and lose your Internet feed, or if your Internet is just plain slow, VoIP will not work for you. So make sure that your Internet service is reliable and fast.
As for which companies are the best VoIP service providers, visit this page to find out how to make an intelligent comparison. You'll have to do a little bit of homework and find the best VoIP service providers available to you. But you'll find the investment of time to be worth it.
Bottom Line
Review all the issues -- pro and con -- before making an informed decision on VoIP service providers.
by Ara Rubyan
Traditional phone service can't offer what VoIP offers -- and that's the reason why VoIP is growing so fast. Not only that: VoIP offers everything that your phone service offers today. And you'll pay less when you go this route. It shouldn't come as a surprise that VoIP is fundamentally remaking the way we all look at -- and use -- our telephones. Whether you are a business owner or simply a homeowner, it is a very viable alternative for nearly everyone.
For example, long distance calls are going to be free or nearly free on VoIP phone systems. This is because VoIP uses the Internet to send your voice messaging. And another thing: Wherever you go, as long as you have an Internet connection, you can have VoIP service. As I said before, VoIP service offers the sorts of features that we were used to paying extra for.
Here are some things that you should investigate when you're choosing a VoIP service provider:
Does it sound good?
Today's technology delivers excellent audio while greatly cutting down on noise. Expect the best from your VoIP service provider. Make a test call before you make any commitments. If you hear any kind of lag, or any kind of delay in your phone call, then that VoIP service provider is probably not for you.
If you think I'm exaggerating, think about a one second delay and what it can mean. It could mean that the person you are talking to is hesitating for some unknown reason. It could mean that the person you are talking to doesn't understand what you are saying, or is simply confused. Or it could mean that you have a slow Internet connection. Before you commit to VoIP service, eliminate the possibility that the delay is due to technical reasons.
Will It Be There When You Need It?
Business owners know: if your phone goes out in the middle of a conference call, you're losing customers. Even worse: if there are 10 people on the line at your office and 10 at the other locations. Even a 15 minute outage equals five man-hours of productivity lost. So don't cut corners with your VoIP service provider. Pay a little bit more and get top-notch, reliable service.
How's the customer service?
It should go without saying that your VoIP service provider should give you 24/7 customer support. Not only that: you shouldn't have to wait on hold -- you should be able to get a straight answer quickly. Look for a VoIP service provider that offers alternate modes of tech support, like live chat.
What Sorts of Features Are Available?
Your VoIP service provider should be able to give you all the standard features that you're accustomed to PLUS free long distance calls, e-mail, fax, Web conferencing, even videophone for no extra fee at all. Some VoIP service providers may not be able to deliver, instead charging you extra for these features. Be sure of what you want -- and ask for it -- before making a final decision on whom to go with.
...and speaking of price
We all feel that VoIP should be free or very cheap. At the very least you should be able to get free long distance and a low monthly service charge. But make sure you're getting more than you pay for. A low price with low voice quality is not a good value. If your VoIP service provider offers a trial, take advantage of it to make sure that you're getting your money's worth.
Despite the upside potential, be aware that there are some negatives to VoIP. For one thing, you still have to have high-speed Internet -- or be capable of it -- for VoIP phone service to work. If you have a power outage and lose your Internet feed, or if your Internet is just plain slow, VoIP will not work for you. So make sure that your Internet service is reliable and fast.
As for which companies are the best VoIP service providers, visit this page to find out how to make an intelligent comparison. You'll have to do a little bit of homework and find the best VoIP service providers available to you. But you'll find the investment of time to be worth it.
Bottom Line
Review all the issues -- pro and con -- before making an informed decision on VoIP service providers.
VoIP Services for managing corporate needs
VoIP Services for managing corporate needs
by Kristen Kiya
Corporate business solutions pertaining to communication are essential to many small as well as medium sized businesses (SMB). With the latest innovations in the realm of VoIP telephony being implemented in many of the VoIP solutions, these specialized services contribute significantly to the growth and diversification of SMBs. As a matter of fact, many establishments and corporates have realized this fact; consequently, a growing SMB market has come up with VoIP service providers doing all that it takes to cater to the same.
A multitude of options are available in VoIP solutions - corporate users could opt for anything between fully hosted to onsite IP solutions. In addition, simple VoIP solutions exist for corporates that take their specific business needs into account. More often than not, the carrier and enterprise VoIP services are also not exorbitantly charged. This ensures that the infrastructure costs are kept at a minimal level.
Apart from integrating the communications network of an organization at unbeatable costs, the VoIP services often deliver certain added advantages to corporates - advantages that go a long way in facilitating their business processes and leaving a favorable impact on the client psyche. Integrated multimedia messaging and specialized voice services are two such services that can be mentioned in this context.
However, one area of concern that corporates could face pertains to data security. The Internet being used as a mode of transfer in VoIP services, there is a chance of calls being intercepted and valuable information being leaked out. Reputed providers of VoIP services to corporates take special cognizance of this fact. The latest innovations related to advances in VoIP security are incorporated in many of the business services and solutions to protect private and confidential information of business clients.
by Kristen Kiya
Corporate business solutions pertaining to communication are essential to many small as well as medium sized businesses (SMB). With the latest innovations in the realm of VoIP telephony being implemented in many of the VoIP solutions, these specialized services contribute significantly to the growth and diversification of SMBs. As a matter of fact, many establishments and corporates have realized this fact; consequently, a growing SMB market has come up with VoIP service providers doing all that it takes to cater to the same.
A multitude of options are available in VoIP solutions - corporate users could opt for anything between fully hosted to onsite IP solutions. In addition, simple VoIP solutions exist for corporates that take their specific business needs into account. More often than not, the carrier and enterprise VoIP services are also not exorbitantly charged. This ensures that the infrastructure costs are kept at a minimal level.
Apart from integrating the communications network of an organization at unbeatable costs, the VoIP services often deliver certain added advantages to corporates - advantages that go a long way in facilitating their business processes and leaving a favorable impact on the client psyche. Integrated multimedia messaging and specialized voice services are two such services that can be mentioned in this context.
However, one area of concern that corporates could face pertains to data security. The Internet being used as a mode of transfer in VoIP services, there is a chance of calls being intercepted and valuable information being leaked out. Reputed providers of VoIP services to corporates take special cognizance of this fact. The latest innovations related to advances in VoIP security are incorporated in many of the business services and solutions to protect private and confidential information of business clients.
Deciding on a 'best' VoIP solution provider
Deciding on a 'best' VoIP solution provider
by Angela Hayden
In the modern competitive scenario, businesses need to do all that it takes to stay ahead. In this context, the change from public switch telephony network to VoIP makes a lot of sense in terms of cost efficiency and productivity enhancement. Once the decision to switch to VoIP is finalized, organizations need to choose the 'best' provider of VoIP solutions.
An important decision by any counts a decision that needs quite a bit of research. But before that, organizations need to ensure that the Internet service provider that they are subscribing to is delivering a high speed broadband connection at required bandwidth. A high speed broadband connection is a must for subscribers who want to enjoy 'premium' voice quality over VoIP networks.
A number of Voice over IP providers have come up in the telecommunication sector and potential users need to undertake a thorough research on the types of services that they are offering. These services need to be assessed viz-a-viz the specific individual business requirements, before a final purchase decision can be made. Other pointers that need to be taken into account are mentioned below: 1. Potential users must check the call rates for different destinations. In this context, users need to check if the VoIP solution provider is offering a-z routes. An extensive research on call tariffs would enable a potential user to avail of the benefits of cheap calls.
2. The voice quality is another factor that is important for any business. A VoIP solution provider who is delivering services at low rates, but is compromising on the quality aspect should be avoided. 3. The presence of multiple routes or switches as well as the contingency for back up routes is third factor that needs to be considered.
A business Voip solution provider should be able to deliver uninterrupted telephony services with maximum call quality. Business reliability and security in terms of communication also becomes important in this context. The above mentioned points should be kept in mind, when businesses are deciding on entering the profitable domain of VoIP telephony.
by Angela Hayden
In the modern competitive scenario, businesses need to do all that it takes to stay ahead. In this context, the change from public switch telephony network to VoIP makes a lot of sense in terms of cost efficiency and productivity enhancement. Once the decision to switch to VoIP is finalized, organizations need to choose the 'best' provider of VoIP solutions.
An important decision by any counts a decision that needs quite a bit of research. But before that, organizations need to ensure that the Internet service provider that they are subscribing to is delivering a high speed broadband connection at required bandwidth. A high speed broadband connection is a must for subscribers who want to enjoy 'premium' voice quality over VoIP networks.
A number of Voice over IP providers have come up in the telecommunication sector and potential users need to undertake a thorough research on the types of services that they are offering. These services need to be assessed viz-a-viz the specific individual business requirements, before a final purchase decision can be made. Other pointers that need to be taken into account are mentioned below: 1. Potential users must check the call rates for different destinations. In this context, users need to check if the VoIP solution provider is offering a-z routes. An extensive research on call tariffs would enable a potential user to avail of the benefits of cheap calls.
2. The voice quality is another factor that is important for any business. A VoIP solution provider who is delivering services at low rates, but is compromising on the quality aspect should be avoided. 3. The presence of multiple routes or switches as well as the contingency for back up routes is third factor that needs to be considered.
A business Voip solution provider should be able to deliver uninterrupted telephony services with maximum call quality. Business reliability and security in terms of communication also becomes important in this context. The above mentioned points should be kept in mind, when businesses are deciding on entering the profitable domain of VoIP telephony.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Branded VoIP Reseller - a money making opportunity
Branded VoIP Reseller - a money making opportunity
by Kristen Kiya
VoIP call termination technology has got huge potential which the industry is beginning to realize and this realization is followed with large number of industry players belonging to different sectors and scale along with residential users opting for this service. Slowly and steadily the users of voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP, as it popularly referred to as, are increasing as the users of traditional telephony or public switch telephony network are switching over VoIP.
The key difference between voice over internet protocol and PSTN is that VoIP uses World Wide Web to transmit the calls of using cable wires. There is tremendous opportunity for resellers in this rising new field especially for those who have sharpened marketing skills and a large client base to cater the service.
VoIP resellers act as an interface between the wholesale providers of VoIP and the end users. End users or residentials can utilize voice over IP service to reduce their cost of calls both long distance and international by almost half the cost. The most important leverage of this revolutionary technology is that it can be conveniently used from any location irrespective of the place you are connecting to the network from. Residentials can either use their computer along with a headset for making VoIP calls or they can even convert their traditional fixed line telephony system with the help of an analog adapter for making calls over the Internet. This analog adapter is usually provided for by the VoIP reseller.
Alternately, an IP phone can also be used which is connected to the computer for making calls. Wireless cell phones which transmit calls over the Internet have slowly started making an appearance in the market too.
Branded VoIP resellers have the advantage that everyone irrespective of demographic factor anyone can be their perspective client. Thus there is minimum risk involved in this venture. VoIP resellers have to make a considerable investment in order to help provide the telephony service to their clients. Thus, a certain level of investment as a start up cost is inevitable. However, there are certain established and peerless VoIP service providers who can help wave off this investment fee by proving all the infrastructure and software needed for call transmission to the switchless VoIP resellers.
Besides this, these set of providers also equip them with online billing software free of cost which helps the voice over IP resellers in maintaining a check on their clients account, their call duration, provide easy online recharge numbers among other features.
VoIP resellership is a great opportunity to increase the revenue generation for those with specialised marketing skills.
by Kristen Kiya
VoIP call termination technology has got huge potential which the industry is beginning to realize and this realization is followed with large number of industry players belonging to different sectors and scale along with residential users opting for this service. Slowly and steadily the users of voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP, as it popularly referred to as, are increasing as the users of traditional telephony or public switch telephony network are switching over VoIP.
The key difference between voice over internet protocol and PSTN is that VoIP uses World Wide Web to transmit the calls of using cable wires. There is tremendous opportunity for resellers in this rising new field especially for those who have sharpened marketing skills and a large client base to cater the service.
VoIP resellers act as an interface between the wholesale providers of VoIP and the end users. End users or residentials can utilize voice over IP service to reduce their cost of calls both long distance and international by almost half the cost. The most important leverage of this revolutionary technology is that it can be conveniently used from any location irrespective of the place you are connecting to the network from. Residentials can either use their computer along with a headset for making VoIP calls or they can even convert their traditional fixed line telephony system with the help of an analog adapter for making calls over the Internet. This analog adapter is usually provided for by the VoIP reseller.
Alternately, an IP phone can also be used which is connected to the computer for making calls. Wireless cell phones which transmit calls over the Internet have slowly started making an appearance in the market too.
Branded VoIP resellers have the advantage that everyone irrespective of demographic factor anyone can be their perspective client. Thus there is minimum risk involved in this venture. VoIP resellers have to make a considerable investment in order to help provide the telephony service to their clients. Thus, a certain level of investment as a start up cost is inevitable. However, there are certain established and peerless VoIP service providers who can help wave off this investment fee by proving all the infrastructure and software needed for call transmission to the switchless VoIP resellers.
Besides this, these set of providers also equip them with online billing software free of cost which helps the voice over IP resellers in maintaining a check on their clients account, their call duration, provide easy online recharge numbers among other features.
VoIP resellership is a great opportunity to increase the revenue generation for those with specialised marketing skills.
VOIP vs Every Day Phone Service - Free Trial VOIP Solutions
VOIP vs Every Day Phone Service - Free Trial VOIP Solutions
by Ivan Cuxeva Jr
For quite some time ever since its creation, the world wide web was no more than a virtual network for people to chat, communicate and meet each other all as through computer exchanged data. Besides bringing everyone together through message boards, emails and chat rooms, the internet just didn't offer a clear solution to connect users verbally. This entire situation changed ever since the VoIP technology was introduced and gave users a wa to communicate not only through text but verbally as well.
In earlier days, the web was known to bring excellent offers from companies who started to explore their possibilities by extending their business to virtual locations on web servers. A few years later, the Internet would be used more and more not only to purchase goods but to exchange information, this is why when many hear the word "internet" they are immediately reminded of "chat rooms". That is actually how the internet started to gain ground and popularity. People liked the way this emerging a new technology let them connect with they didn't know, with friends, family, etc.
Most web users at some point or another thought "Posting thoughts in a message board is OK but it doesn't beat verbal communication". This fact remained true for quite some time until software developers created software applications which allowed users to communicate verbally with each other through the internet just like if they were sending data packets. In reality, voice as well as text can be converted into computer data and sent over telephone lines. This is how most people think of VOIP, and that's in-fact very close to the way VOIP enabled devices work.
The only problem at the time was that such software applications were not able to place actual phone calls but rather all communication was conducted through a PC to PC interface which is still used today by may applications. Phone companies became aware of the possibility clients would turn their backs on their service and started offering Voice Over IP communications as an alternative choice.
Other companies emerged such as BBtelsys, Packet8, etc. These companies used this technology to more choices to clients. Many people have decided to use their Voice over IP solutions because their service fees are cheaper when compared to conventional services, which sounds good but since it is a new concept many people are not sure if this kind of technology is for them.
That's why finding VOIP companies which offer free trials is very useful. Some of them provide the service for free, as a second line which can be tested side by sides against the user's existing phone service and after thirty days the user can decide which way he/she wants to go. As you can see this is very convenient because if the service turns out to be not what you expected, you can just cancel and owe nothing.
VOIP is also used by businesses because it cuts their communication expenses a lot. But aside from being a financially smart decision, voice over IP solutions have all the features we use every day such as: caller ID, call waiting, conference calling, call forwarding, redial, call transfer and logs, message waiting, hold and speed dial. So as you see it is not that different from our current service which makes voice over IP easy to understand and use.
by Ivan Cuxeva Jr
For quite some time ever since its creation, the world wide web was no more than a virtual network for people to chat, communicate and meet each other all as through computer exchanged data. Besides bringing everyone together through message boards, emails and chat rooms, the internet just didn't offer a clear solution to connect users verbally. This entire situation changed ever since the VoIP technology was introduced and gave users a wa to communicate not only through text but verbally as well.
In earlier days, the web was known to bring excellent offers from companies who started to explore their possibilities by extending their business to virtual locations on web servers. A few years later, the Internet would be used more and more not only to purchase goods but to exchange information, this is why when many hear the word "internet" they are immediately reminded of "chat rooms". That is actually how the internet started to gain ground and popularity. People liked the way this emerging a new technology let them connect with they didn't know, with friends, family, etc.
Most web users at some point or another thought "Posting thoughts in a message board is OK but it doesn't beat verbal communication". This fact remained true for quite some time until software developers created software applications which allowed users to communicate verbally with each other through the internet just like if they were sending data packets. In reality, voice as well as text can be converted into computer data and sent over telephone lines. This is how most people think of VOIP, and that's in-fact very close to the way VOIP enabled devices work.
The only problem at the time was that such software applications were not able to place actual phone calls but rather all communication was conducted through a PC to PC interface which is still used today by may applications. Phone companies became aware of the possibility clients would turn their backs on their service and started offering Voice Over IP communications as an alternative choice.
Other companies emerged such as BBtelsys, Packet8, etc. These companies used this technology to more choices to clients. Many people have decided to use their Voice over IP solutions because their service fees are cheaper when compared to conventional services, which sounds good but since it is a new concept many people are not sure if this kind of technology is for them.
That's why finding VOIP companies which offer free trials is very useful. Some of them provide the service for free, as a second line which can be tested side by sides against the user's existing phone service and after thirty days the user can decide which way he/she wants to go. As you can see this is very convenient because if the service turns out to be not what you expected, you can just cancel and owe nothing.
VOIP is also used by businesses because it cuts their communication expenses a lot. But aside from being a financially smart decision, voice over IP solutions have all the features we use every day such as: caller ID, call waiting, conference calling, call forwarding, redial, call transfer and logs, message waiting, hold and speed dial. So as you see it is not that different from our current service which makes voice over IP easy to understand and use.
A Look into VoIP and Its Services
A Look into VoIP and Its Services
by Kristen Kiya
Traditional public switch telephony network along with PBX has taken a back seat with the advent of VoIP telephony services. It is not a hidden fact that the popularity and dependency on VoIP services has been increasing over a period of time, and it does not seem like this is going to change anytime soon. In fact, several researchers of the telecommunication field have pointed out, and rightly so, that in the near future, the entire communication structure would come to rely upon Voice over IP services. It is thus essential to understand how this technology works, in what way can residentials and businesses benefit from it and what are its disadvantages, if any.
How VoIP Works?
Voice over Internet Protocol is a mode of transmitting voice over the Internet by converting it into small digital IP packets from analog signals, so that it could be understood by the computer. The voice is decompressed and reconverted into analog signals before it finally reaches the receiver.
Equipments That Are Needed For Utilizing VoIP Solution:
A residential client would only need a computer or a SIP phone, a sound card, headsets, and an Internet connection in order to make VoIP calls. From the back-end side, all the technical equipments that are required for utilizing VoIP services are owned and maintained by the VoIP service providers. Wholesalers of VoIP procure VoIP minutes from service providers in bulk and then further sell them to resellers. VoIP Wholesale carrier service providers have their own network consisting of equipments like gateways, routers etc. VoIP resellers do not have to make any substantial capital investment for venturing into the voice over IP telephony field. The entire technical part of VoIP services is handled by the providers or wholesalers.
Functionality of VoIP:
1. It is the most cost-effective way of making local, long distance and international calls even while getting the same voice quality as with the traditional mode of calling. 2. It helps in unifying the communication structure of an organization, thereby increasing the productivity along with it. 3. It is mobile. One can take it anywhere along with them and still be able to make calls at the same reduced rates. Not only this, but all the calls will automatically be routed directly to your VoIP number, irrespective of the network from where you are connected to the Internet. 4. VoIP service providers offer other service features free of cost which PSTN providers normally charge for. For instance, call forwarding and call waiting. They increase your businesses functionality. 5. It is easy to integrate your existing services with business VoIP.
The only negative aspect which had hampered the growth of VoIP services the time it was invented is its poor voice quality. However, with time, several improvements have been made as a result of which VoIP solution gives us the same voice quality as with any traditional PSTN service.
by Kristen Kiya
Traditional public switch telephony network along with PBX has taken a back seat with the advent of VoIP telephony services. It is not a hidden fact that the popularity and dependency on VoIP services has been increasing over a period of time, and it does not seem like this is going to change anytime soon. In fact, several researchers of the telecommunication field have pointed out, and rightly so, that in the near future, the entire communication structure would come to rely upon Voice over IP services. It is thus essential to understand how this technology works, in what way can residentials and businesses benefit from it and what are its disadvantages, if any.
How VoIP Works?
Voice over Internet Protocol is a mode of transmitting voice over the Internet by converting it into small digital IP packets from analog signals, so that it could be understood by the computer. The voice is decompressed and reconverted into analog signals before it finally reaches the receiver.
Equipments That Are Needed For Utilizing VoIP Solution:
A residential client would only need a computer or a SIP phone, a sound card, headsets, and an Internet connection in order to make VoIP calls. From the back-end side, all the technical equipments that are required for utilizing VoIP services are owned and maintained by the VoIP service providers. Wholesalers of VoIP procure VoIP minutes from service providers in bulk and then further sell them to resellers. VoIP Wholesale carrier service providers have their own network consisting of equipments like gateways, routers etc. VoIP resellers do not have to make any substantial capital investment for venturing into the voice over IP telephony field. The entire technical part of VoIP services is handled by the providers or wholesalers.
Functionality of VoIP:
1. It is the most cost-effective way of making local, long distance and international calls even while getting the same voice quality as with the traditional mode of calling. 2. It helps in unifying the communication structure of an organization, thereby increasing the productivity along with it. 3. It is mobile. One can take it anywhere along with them and still be able to make calls at the same reduced rates. Not only this, but all the calls will automatically be routed directly to your VoIP number, irrespective of the network from where you are connected to the Internet. 4. VoIP service providers offer other service features free of cost which PSTN providers normally charge for. For instance, call forwarding and call waiting. They increase your businesses functionality. 5. It is easy to integrate your existing services with business VoIP.
The only negative aspect which had hampered the growth of VoIP services the time it was invented is its poor voice quality. However, with time, several improvements have been made as a result of which VoIP solution gives us the same voice quality as with any traditional PSTN service.
VoIP - The Technology That Keeps You Talking
VoIP - The Technology That Keeps You Talking
by Dennis Jaylon
For quite some time since its inception, the Internet was nothing more than a virtual platform for people to meet and communicate with each other in a non-verbal fashion. Apart from bringing the whole world closer through chat rooms and emails, there wasn't much that the Internet could do to connect users verbally. This scenario changed with the entry of the VoIP technology that gave users a much needed verbal communication platform.
As far as the development is concerned from a manufacturer's point of view, it is just another usual turn of events. However, users have a different story to tell about the VoIP technology, which has actually narrowed the distance between them and their friends to a great extent. Internet users can now talk to their friends and relatives over Internet telephones or VoIP phones, to be precise through this technology.
The VoIP technology works on the calculation of transmitting voice calls over the Internet or through an IP based network. Through this technology, two kinds of phone services are available in the form of regular telephone adapter based VoIP phones and software based VoIP phones. The former can be used to make and receive calls to and from any phone, while the software based VoIP phones need a computer to transmit the voice signals.
To enjoy the benefits of the VoIPtechnology, all you need is a broadband Internet connection or your regular telephone that is connected to an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) given by the provider to get going. With several impressive options laid out through this technology in the form of voice mails, caller ID, call forwarding, etc., VoIP phone users stand to gain a lot.
by Dennis Jaylon
For quite some time since its inception, the Internet was nothing more than a virtual platform for people to meet and communicate with each other in a non-verbal fashion. Apart from bringing the whole world closer through chat rooms and emails, there wasn't much that the Internet could do to connect users verbally. This scenario changed with the entry of the VoIP technology that gave users a much needed verbal communication platform.
As far as the development is concerned from a manufacturer's point of view, it is just another usual turn of events. However, users have a different story to tell about the VoIP technology, which has actually narrowed the distance between them and their friends to a great extent. Internet users can now talk to their friends and relatives over Internet telephones or VoIP phones, to be precise through this technology.
The VoIP technology works on the calculation of transmitting voice calls over the Internet or through an IP based network. Through this technology, two kinds of phone services are available in the form of regular telephone adapter based VoIP phones and software based VoIP phones. The former can be used to make and receive calls to and from any phone, while the software based VoIP phones need a computer to transmit the voice signals.
To enjoy the benefits of the VoIPtechnology, all you need is a broadband Internet connection or your regular telephone that is connected to an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) given by the provider to get going. With several impressive options laid out through this technology in the form of voice mails, caller ID, call forwarding, etc., VoIP phone users stand to gain a lot.
Selection Of VoIP Carriers Just Became Easy!
Selection Of VoIP Carriers Just Became Easy!
by Kristen Kiya
According to recent reports by various research analysts VoIP users have grown by more than 125% in 2006 by accomplishing more than a million subscribers. This great leap shows that the VoIP market is red hot now and only needs one to hit the hammer hard at the right time in order to get the best out for this promising technology.
VoIP carriers provide call termination, wholesale carrier services, reseller programs and business solutions. Depending upon your requirements you can easily opt for one these services if you want o get ahead of the competition and increase your profit generation.
To a great extent your profitability and the quality of service that you receive will depend upon your VoIP carrier. It is thus of utmost importance that you carefully analyze before finalizing the voice over IP carrier.
Method of Selecting a VoIP Carrier Service Provider
Keeping the following points in focus can help you in getting not just a quality service but will also ensure a smooth operationing of the business functions.
1. Look for the Quality - Quality of service should be the first thing you watch out for. Ask your VoIP carrier provider about the ACD, ASR and PDD. ACD should ideally range between 2-3 minutes for good quality and anything above 6 minutes would give excellent quality. ASR should be between 40-50% and above 60% will guarantee enhanced quality. PDD should not be more than 3 seconds to give quality service.
2. Rates - There are multifarious VoIP carrier providers in the telecommunication market offering the same service but at different rates. So make sure that you do an in depth market analysis in order to get the service from the best voice over IP carrier.
3. Availability Of 24x7 online support - There are several premium VoIP providers who offer round the clock online support service to their clients ensuring uninterrupted telephony communication.
Besides this, make a list of features which are essential for enhancing the way you operate and accordingly shortlist the VoIP carrier.
by Kristen Kiya
According to recent reports by various research analysts VoIP users have grown by more than 125% in 2006 by accomplishing more than a million subscribers. This great leap shows that the VoIP market is red hot now and only needs one to hit the hammer hard at the right time in order to get the best out for this promising technology.
VoIP carriers provide call termination, wholesale carrier services, reseller programs and business solutions. Depending upon your requirements you can easily opt for one these services if you want o get ahead of the competition and increase your profit generation.
To a great extent your profitability and the quality of service that you receive will depend upon your VoIP carrier. It is thus of utmost importance that you carefully analyze before finalizing the voice over IP carrier.
Method of Selecting a VoIP Carrier Service Provider
Keeping the following points in focus can help you in getting not just a quality service but will also ensure a smooth operationing of the business functions.
1. Look for the Quality - Quality of service should be the first thing you watch out for. Ask your VoIP carrier provider about the ACD, ASR and PDD. ACD should ideally range between 2-3 minutes for good quality and anything above 6 minutes would give excellent quality. ASR should be between 40-50% and above 60% will guarantee enhanced quality. PDD should not be more than 3 seconds to give quality service.
2. Rates - There are multifarious VoIP carrier providers in the telecommunication market offering the same service but at different rates. So make sure that you do an in depth market analysis in order to get the service from the best voice over IP carrier.
3. Availability Of 24x7 online support - There are several premium VoIP providers who offer round the clock online support service to their clients ensuring uninterrupted telephony communication.
Besides this, make a list of features which are essential for enhancing the way you operate and accordingly shortlist the VoIP carrier.
VoIP Phones - Connecting Economically
VoIP Phones - Connecting Economically
by Jack Triston
It is clearly one of the best examples of progress that can be cited in today's date. From the erstwhile era of the conventional analog telephones to the age of mobile phones, to yet another level of advancement with VoIP phones, it is one eventful journey till this stage. And all of it was possible due to our constant hunger for further evolution at every step.
The Internet is the base, on which the functionality of the VoIP phones rest. This is reason why they are also known Internet phones. According to the technology on which these phones work, analog audio signals are fed to be converted into digital data signals, which are later transmitted over the Internet to other compatible phones across the globe.
Three communication standards of transferring voice signals over a network are employed in the process. VoIP phones can function through software phones, analog telephony adapters (ATA) and IP phones to provide users with reliable and cost-effective VoIP solutions. Software phones are simple ways of communicating over the Internet with the help of a computer software and a microphone. ATA converts analog signals to digital signals by connecting itself into your analog telephone, your computer and the Internet connection. IP phones connect themselves to a router or wall jack through an Ethernet connector with the software being provided by the maker.
With VoIP phones, you can get connected to people using similar phones or even any other phones at the most economic of charges you can imagine. Newer phone makers have entered the market to capitalise on the emerging trend and showcase their products.
by Jack Triston
It is clearly one of the best examples of progress that can be cited in today's date. From the erstwhile era of the conventional analog telephones to the age of mobile phones, to yet another level of advancement with VoIP phones, it is one eventful journey till this stage. And all of it was possible due to our constant hunger for further evolution at every step.
The Internet is the base, on which the functionality of the VoIP phones rest. This is reason why they are also known Internet phones. According to the technology on which these phones work, analog audio signals are fed to be converted into digital data signals, which are later transmitted over the Internet to other compatible phones across the globe.
Three communication standards of transferring voice signals over a network are employed in the process. VoIP phones can function through software phones, analog telephony adapters (ATA) and IP phones to provide users with reliable and cost-effective VoIP solutions. Software phones are simple ways of communicating over the Internet with the help of a computer software and a microphone. ATA converts analog signals to digital signals by connecting itself into your analog telephone, your computer and the Internet connection. IP phones connect themselves to a router or wall jack through an Ethernet connector with the software being provided by the maker.
With VoIP phones, you can get connected to people using similar phones or even any other phones at the most economic of charges you can imagine. Newer phone makers have entered the market to capitalise on the emerging trend and showcase their products.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
VoIP Solution Providers: saves money and increases productivity
VoIP Solution Providers: saves money and increases productivity
by Angela Hayden
Bills! Bills! Bills! If every month you spend half of your salary on telephone bills then switch on to Voice over IP telephony system. Unlike, traditional PSTN services, VoIP solution providers offer unlimited long distance and international calls at minimal cost. While offering services, solution providers stress on delivering good voice quality, reliability, efficient network and security. With these benefits, VoIP technology is widely used by corporate houses and individual users from different spheres of industry. No doubt, corporate houses and residential user are benefited with VoIP solutions as they cut down on monthly communication cost in the long run. Moreover, one can carry the phone across the globe and can have access to calls at at very low rates. VoIP business solution providers offer different solutions to different businesses depending upon operations of business.
VoIP solutions can be easily accessed by anyone who possesses high speed Internet connection, Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) as well as phone. One can avail ATA hardware for free from solution providers of VoIP. So, while making selection of efficient providers, user must opt for a provider that offers high-end communications services and solutions like caller ID, voice mail and 3-way conferencing. Well, the best VoIP provider is the one who provides wide range of wholesale carrier service, reseller program and business solution.
Unlike conventional PSTN, VoIP uses single cable for sending and receiving data, voice and video packets. Thus, single packet increases the efficiency of Voice-over-IP services. VoIP solution providers help users to share data seamlessly with this unique and flexible technology. Seamlessly network transition in business helps to minimally affect the network operations during switching process. This helps the network operations to increase the efficiency and productivity of different corporate houses, contact centers or Internet service providers.
by Angela Hayden
Bills! Bills! Bills! If every month you spend half of your salary on telephone bills then switch on to Voice over IP telephony system. Unlike, traditional PSTN services, VoIP solution providers offer unlimited long distance and international calls at minimal cost. While offering services, solution providers stress on delivering good voice quality, reliability, efficient network and security. With these benefits, VoIP technology is widely used by corporate houses and individual users from different spheres of industry. No doubt, corporate houses and residential user are benefited with VoIP solutions as they cut down on monthly communication cost in the long run. Moreover, one can carry the phone across the globe and can have access to calls at at very low rates. VoIP business solution providers offer different solutions to different businesses depending upon operations of business.
VoIP solutions can be easily accessed by anyone who possesses high speed Internet connection, Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) as well as phone. One can avail ATA hardware for free from solution providers of VoIP. So, while making selection of efficient providers, user must opt for a provider that offers high-end communications services and solutions like caller ID, voice mail and 3-way conferencing. Well, the best VoIP provider is the one who provides wide range of wholesale carrier service, reseller program and business solution.
Unlike conventional PSTN, VoIP uses single cable for sending and receiving data, voice and video packets. Thus, single packet increases the efficiency of Voice-over-IP services. VoIP solution providers help users to share data seamlessly with this unique and flexible technology. Seamlessly network transition in business helps to minimally affect the network operations during switching process. This helps the network operations to increase the efficiency and productivity of different corporate houses, contact centers or Internet service providers.
VoIP platform providers: supports service providers
VoIP platform providers: supports service providers
by Angela Hayden
VoIP platform providers offer Next Generation IP Telephony business solution to it's customers. This platform is best suitable for those business houses that have access to strong client base spread in geographical arena. Along with that, efficient and sound sales department is mandatory for venturing in VoIP platform services. The provider's main target is to provide tremendous growth and potential opportunities in IP Telephony. No doubt, Voice over IP telephony has changed the traditional method of communicating through PSTN. With VoIP technology, any end-user can communicate seamlessly, provide better cost controls and high productivity in his organization. VoIP offers single platform for sending data, voice and video to other user over high speed Internet. This helps to improve efficiency of resources and allows end user to make more than one call at any time.
VoIP platform providers deliver superior clarity and high quality business VoIP solutions to Next Generation carriers, businesses and individual users. Various services are offered to wholesaler VoIP carrier, contact centres, ISP or ITSP solution, corporate business and swtichless resellers.
The work of voice over IP is to convert analog audio signal to digital data so that it can be transmitted over Internet. This service by VoIP provides to reduce the cost of communication. With its state-of-art-technology, platform providers provide its end users with a complete flexible, scalable and reliable communication. The main motive of any VoIP provider is to offer low cost communication over long distance and international calling.
The aim of VoIP platform provider is to increase the output and to expand the business arena. Providers of VoIP offer wholesalers and retailers with some part of the VoIP switch at an affordable rate. Thus, considering the global market, renowned platform providers operate their work 24x7x365, i.e. they support their services around the clock.
by Angela Hayden
VoIP platform providers offer Next Generation IP Telephony business solution to it's customers. This platform is best suitable for those business houses that have access to strong client base spread in geographical arena. Along with that, efficient and sound sales department is mandatory for venturing in VoIP platform services. The provider's main target is to provide tremendous growth and potential opportunities in IP Telephony. No doubt, Voice over IP telephony has changed the traditional method of communicating through PSTN. With VoIP technology, any end-user can communicate seamlessly, provide better cost controls and high productivity in his organization. VoIP offers single platform for sending data, voice and video to other user over high speed Internet. This helps to improve efficiency of resources and allows end user to make more than one call at any time.
VoIP platform providers deliver superior clarity and high quality business VoIP solutions to Next Generation carriers, businesses and individual users. Various services are offered to wholesaler VoIP carrier, contact centres, ISP or ITSP solution, corporate business and swtichless resellers.
The work of voice over IP is to convert analog audio signal to digital data so that it can be transmitted over Internet. This service by VoIP provides to reduce the cost of communication. With its state-of-art-technology, platform providers provide its end users with a complete flexible, scalable and reliable communication. The main motive of any VoIP provider is to offer low cost communication over long distance and international calling.
The aim of VoIP platform provider is to increase the output and to expand the business arena. Providers of VoIP offer wholesalers and retailers with some part of the VoIP switch at an affordable rate. Thus, considering the global market, renowned platform providers operate their work 24x7x365, i.e. they support their services around the clock.
Call Center Solutions: Offers instant solutions
Call Center Solutions: Offers instant solutions
by Kristen Kiya
Call Center solution provides instant assurance of customer satisfaction. This is made possible with an innovation of automated system of online solutions. To maximize market opportunity, call center solutions are essentials for data management. This helps to ensure business success of clients in promotion and selling of products with considerable increase in profit margin. Call center services include voice based responses and Internet transactions like e-mail, instant messaging and online communication. Thus, considering their services and problems, solution providers have come up with call center solution to assist them. Well, while pacing up with modern era sales challenges, contact center solution provides latest marketing tools that are offered by experts.
While focusing on solutions for its call center clients, efficiency and professionalism of customer service is essential. Considering this fact, an expert enhances on timely e-commerce solutions for getting orders and credit card authorization, online marketing, FAQ and processing of product inquires. This automated system of management ensures security with industry standards to assure or increase confidentially in business transaction. With the development in communication technology, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has made things easier. With VoIP client, avail efficient and cheaper way of communication with solution providers across the world. In addition, VoIP services allow businesses to set up number of lines to provide instant solution when required.
So, to meet desired parameters of call center or increase productivity and profitability, solution provider of VoIP provide various valuable services to its clients. For instance, to meet global market, solutions for call centers are easily available round the clock i.e. 24x7. Contact center solutions help to gain huge reduction in capital expenditure. Solution provider let their clients enjoy mobility and flexibility of operations. While providing solutions, these centers make best use of intelligence survey to make its presence felt in the market. Therefore, for maintaining offshore customer relations, call center solutions offer best alternatives for success!
by Kristen Kiya
Call Center solution provides instant assurance of customer satisfaction. This is made possible with an innovation of automated system of online solutions. To maximize market opportunity, call center solutions are essentials for data management. This helps to ensure business success of clients in promotion and selling of products with considerable increase in profit margin. Call center services include voice based responses and Internet transactions like e-mail, instant messaging and online communication. Thus, considering their services and problems, solution providers have come up with call center solution to assist them. Well, while pacing up with modern era sales challenges, contact center solution provides latest marketing tools that are offered by experts.
While focusing on solutions for its call center clients, efficiency and professionalism of customer service is essential. Considering this fact, an expert enhances on timely e-commerce solutions for getting orders and credit card authorization, online marketing, FAQ and processing of product inquires. This automated system of management ensures security with industry standards to assure or increase confidentially in business transaction. With the development in communication technology, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has made things easier. With VoIP client, avail efficient and cheaper way of communication with solution providers across the world. In addition, VoIP services allow businesses to set up number of lines to provide instant solution when required.
So, to meet desired parameters of call center or increase productivity and profitability, solution provider of VoIP provide various valuable services to its clients. For instance, to meet global market, solutions for call centers are easily available round the clock i.e. 24x7. Contact center solutions help to gain huge reduction in capital expenditure. Solution provider let their clients enjoy mobility and flexibility of operations. While providing solutions, these centers make best use of intelligence survey to make its presence felt in the market. Therefore, for maintaining offshore customer relations, call center solutions offer best alternatives for success!
Becoming a VoIP Reseller: best business opportunity
Becoming a VoIP Reseller: best business opportunity
by Kristen Kiya
To survive in the world of high-end communication, one must opt for new opportunities. While shuffling pages of latest opportunities in communication industry with less investment, VoIP reseller rated more credit compared to any other profile. Well, becoming active VoIP reseller means holding huge potential for spreading call termination services across the world. They have to ensure that their services reach the end-user effectively. With this as job profile, number of voice over IP resellers are increasing as it has wide scope across the globe, for instance, even the remotest areas are also accessing VoIP calls. So, it can be said that it's the time to bid an adieu to traditional channel of communication i.e. Public switch Telephony network or PSTN and switch on to VoIP.
Scope of becoming a reseller is increasing; as earlier their services were opted by corporate houses and business organization only. But with the time and looking at benefits, reseller's services are also becoming popular among residential users. IP resellers builds pivotal link between the service provider and end-users. To become a reseller VoIP, one must have an established customer base in specific geographical areas, as well as a sound and efficient sales department. Moreover, one must also possess basic knowledge about Voice over internet protocol domain. Therefore, an individual is free from investment in infrastructural set-up.
The work of a branded IP reseller is to avail and allocate some portion of VoIP switch from providers to the end users respectively. So, while availing portion of switch from voice over IP provider, any reseller must look into few features like:
1. Best quality of service to find appropriate ASR, ACD and PDD from any service provider.
2. Affordable rate with best quality of services.
3. Availability of technical support round the clock i.e. 24x7x365
Lastly, relationship with IP provider and reseller is considered as a one-step opportunity to connect with the best carriers.
by Kristen Kiya
To survive in the world of high-end communication, one must opt for new opportunities. While shuffling pages of latest opportunities in communication industry with less investment, VoIP reseller rated more credit compared to any other profile. Well, becoming active VoIP reseller means holding huge potential for spreading call termination services across the world. They have to ensure that their services reach the end-user effectively. With this as job profile, number of voice over IP resellers are increasing as it has wide scope across the globe, for instance, even the remotest areas are also accessing VoIP calls. So, it can be said that it's the time to bid an adieu to traditional channel of communication i.e. Public switch Telephony network or PSTN and switch on to VoIP.
Scope of becoming a reseller is increasing; as earlier their services were opted by corporate houses and business organization only. But with the time and looking at benefits, reseller's services are also becoming popular among residential users. IP resellers builds pivotal link between the service provider and end-users. To become a reseller VoIP, one must have an established customer base in specific geographical areas, as well as a sound and efficient sales department. Moreover, one must also possess basic knowledge about Voice over internet protocol domain. Therefore, an individual is free from investment in infrastructural set-up.
The work of a branded IP reseller is to avail and allocate some portion of VoIP switch from providers to the end users respectively. So, while availing portion of switch from voice over IP provider, any reseller must look into few features like:
1. Best quality of service to find appropriate ASR, ACD and PDD from any service provider.
2. Affordable rate with best quality of services.
3. Availability of technical support round the clock i.e. 24x7x365
Lastly, relationship with IP provider and reseller is considered as a one-step opportunity to connect with the best carriers.
Why VoIP Is Becoming So Popular
Why VoIP Is Becoming So Popular
by Dennis Jaylon
Voice Over Internet Protocol is one of the latest discovery in the field of communication. The simple function upon which it sells itself is the factor that it uses the Internet to make calls. Endowed with several advantages, VoIP is believed to be one of the best and the most economical ways to make calls to international locations today. Moreover, quite easy to set up and use, the service can be availed easily too.
As said earlier, VoIP lets you make calls through the Internet, wherein you are charged for the Internet facilities you are using during the call process. In this condition, you have to pay only the local call charges and the usual Internet expenses. Thus, it makes no difference whether you are calling an international location or domestic one since the charges will remain the same. Thus, for companies operating in different countries, and for people who make a lot of international calls, VoIP is the best solution to cut down on telephone bills and save plenty of money.
Further advancements have deployed Internet telephony to be availed free of cost. All you need is a headset, sound card, a computer and an Internet connection. The next thing you need to do is to download any of the many VoIP software packages like Skype, Net2Phone, Gizmo and Free World Dialup. After you have installed any of these softwares, ask all your friends or people you want to chat with to install the same software. After the software has been loaded on both sides, you are free to make calls.
Not only is this service seamless, but quite economical too. Using VoIP solution assures you better voice quality than what you get on traditional calling. Moreover, VoIP enabled phones are equipped with several features like call forwarding, voice mail box, redial button and call records, which make the communication easier. Portability is another important feature attached with it. Even when you are travelling, you can make calls through Internet telephony.
by Dennis Jaylon
Voice Over Internet Protocol is one of the latest discovery in the field of communication. The simple function upon which it sells itself is the factor that it uses the Internet to make calls. Endowed with several advantages, VoIP is believed to be one of the best and the most economical ways to make calls to international locations today. Moreover, quite easy to set up and use, the service can be availed easily too.
As said earlier, VoIP lets you make calls through the Internet, wherein you are charged for the Internet facilities you are using during the call process. In this condition, you have to pay only the local call charges and the usual Internet expenses. Thus, it makes no difference whether you are calling an international location or domestic one since the charges will remain the same. Thus, for companies operating in different countries, and for people who make a lot of international calls, VoIP is the best solution to cut down on telephone bills and save plenty of money.
Further advancements have deployed Internet telephony to be availed free of cost. All you need is a headset, sound card, a computer and an Internet connection. The next thing you need to do is to download any of the many VoIP software packages like Skype, Net2Phone, Gizmo and Free World Dialup. After you have installed any of these softwares, ask all your friends or people you want to chat with to install the same software. After the software has been loaded on both sides, you are free to make calls.
Not only is this service seamless, but quite economical too. Using VoIP solution assures you better voice quality than what you get on traditional calling. Moreover, VoIP enabled phones are equipped with several features like call forwarding, voice mail box, redial button and call records, which make the communication easier. Portability is another important feature attached with it. Even when you are travelling, you can make calls through Internet telephony.
Let Your Business Soar With VoIP Solution
Let Your Business Soar With VoIP Solution
by Kristen Kiya
Business houses need a lot more than just the ability to make and receive calls when it comes to their communication requirements. With a definite change in the way corporates function and evolving business scenario, it has become imperative to switch to VoIP solution if you want to earn profits and have a successful and steady run in long term.
The traditional public switch telephony network( PSTN) though offers a quality and reliable service to corporates and residentials, it proves to be quiet expensive to utilize it for daily communication needs especially if you have to often make long distance and international long distance calls. VoIP has come as a better and upgraded alternative to PSTN with its cost effective call rates.
Business solution VoIP makes it possible to cut down the cost of calling to more than 50% thereby allowing businesses to save on their telephony expenditure. Since the calls are made by exploiting the service of Internet the cost of operations is also bare minimum.
VoIP uses a single connection for sending data, voice and video packets thereby the efficiency increases a great deal with voice over IP services. Corporates can also depend on VoIP to increase their productivity. Most of the users of VoIP or SIP solution VoIP claim that it has helped them in achieving their targets faster in the first month of migration itself.
VoIP solution providers can help integrate the different branches of an organization seamlessly with this unique and flexible technology. This enables free of cost communication between different branches thereby giving you the ability to work as a single robust entity.
For virtual workers VoIP has come as a great advantage. Mobile, small office or home office work force can now communicate by utilizing cheapest VoIP solution. Till recent they had to rely on mobile phones or other expensive modes of communication to remain in contact with their head office. Moreover, when a call from a client came at the head office for them the client had to be told to contact the worker at a different number. As a result the potential client had to make a second call to get through to the required worker, which at times he would not make. With VoIP at help, the call can be directly forwarded to worker thereby saving the sale.
by Kristen Kiya
Business houses need a lot more than just the ability to make and receive calls when it comes to their communication requirements. With a definite change in the way corporates function and evolving business scenario, it has become imperative to switch to VoIP solution if you want to earn profits and have a successful and steady run in long term.
The traditional public switch telephony network( PSTN) though offers a quality and reliable service to corporates and residentials, it proves to be quiet expensive to utilize it for daily communication needs especially if you have to often make long distance and international long distance calls. VoIP has come as a better and upgraded alternative to PSTN with its cost effective call rates.
Business solution VoIP makes it possible to cut down the cost of calling to more than 50% thereby allowing businesses to save on their telephony expenditure. Since the calls are made by exploiting the service of Internet the cost of operations is also bare minimum.
VoIP uses a single connection for sending data, voice and video packets thereby the efficiency increases a great deal with voice over IP services. Corporates can also depend on VoIP to increase their productivity. Most of the users of VoIP or SIP solution VoIP claim that it has helped them in achieving their targets faster in the first month of migration itself.
VoIP solution providers can help integrate the different branches of an organization seamlessly with this unique and flexible technology. This enables free of cost communication between different branches thereby giving you the ability to work as a single robust entity.
For virtual workers VoIP has come as a great advantage. Mobile, small office or home office work force can now communicate by utilizing cheapest VoIP solution. Till recent they had to rely on mobile phones or other expensive modes of communication to remain in contact with their head office. Moreover, when a call from a client came at the head office for them the client had to be told to contact the worker at a different number. As a result the potential client had to make a second call to get through to the required worker, which at times he would not make. With VoIP at help, the call can be directly forwarded to worker thereby saving the sale.
VoIP technologies
VoIP technologies
by Victoria Malinovskaya
Many people do not have any imagination about VoIP. The task of this article is to consider what is VoIP at all, its technologies, software and billing.
What is VoIP?
This abbreviation means Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP technologies include different technologies that give us possibility to use IP networks for voice applications of various types. For example, it may be voice instant messaging, telephony, teleconferencing etc. Many software developers think that VoIP technologies have great future because it has different solutions almost in every level of IP network. It may be voice applications for specialized application, like Skype, which is one of the most popular VoIP software, or quality measures of the lowest levels that allow to run those applications in a smooth way.
There is also such utterance as VoIP billing. This is a new concept and its application will allow you to save a lot of money on paying of your telephone bills.
VoIP and its applications
As it was mentioned above VoIP technologies include different technologies that give us possibility to use IP networks for voice applications of various types. This applications may include the following: telephone services, desktop applications and phone systems of corporate type.
At first, telephone services. This is a service that will allow you to save money on telephone billing, it was named VoIP billing.
The next applications is desktop applications. This service was named VoIP software. It will allow you to use different software from voice-chat which was loaded on your PC desktop to IP-based telecommunications networks, such as Mac, which are used in large corporations.
On the one hand, VoIP technologies is technology investment which will allow to develop a lot of streams that will make possible to get your own profit.
On the other hand, VoIP technologies will alow to simplify your corporate network and to make some imrovements of telephony experience for users of network, this is a great advantage for enterprise network engineer.
For the home user, VoIP technologies is really great possibility to cut the charges on the old telephone bill.
Services based on VoIP
Many companies suggest voice calling services which are really cheap. This is realised with the help of your broadband connection. Some of the offer calling services even cheaper than $9.95 per month. This is allowed with the help of VoIP technologies. Providers of IP service over voice usually use the internet to transfer voice signals from their own networks up to the phone located at your home. That is why their bills are much more cheaper that bills of other companies, because VoIP telecommunication is not organised in that way like traditional telecommunication phone lines.
What is expected for VoIP in the future?
One of the new VoIP technologies is cell-phones based on VoIP. It is almos ready for application. It will allow people to avoid interruption of communication driving your car, entering your office and then the signal will be transmitted to your laptop using Wi-Fi network. This type of technology is already existing but it is not widely used.
There are also a lot of different VoIP technologies which are not very widespread today. But it is expected the great future for them.
by Victoria Malinovskaya
Many people do not have any imagination about VoIP. The task of this article is to consider what is VoIP at all, its technologies, software and billing.
What is VoIP?
This abbreviation means Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP technologies include different technologies that give us possibility to use IP networks for voice applications of various types. For example, it may be voice instant messaging, telephony, teleconferencing etc. Many software developers think that VoIP technologies have great future because it has different solutions almost in every level of IP network. It may be voice applications for specialized application, like Skype, which is one of the most popular VoIP software, or quality measures of the lowest levels that allow to run those applications in a smooth way.
There is also such utterance as VoIP billing. This is a new concept and its application will allow you to save a lot of money on paying of your telephone bills.
VoIP and its applications
As it was mentioned above VoIP technologies include different technologies that give us possibility to use IP networks for voice applications of various types. This applications may include the following: telephone services, desktop applications and phone systems of corporate type.
At first, telephone services. This is a service that will allow you to save money on telephone billing, it was named VoIP billing.
The next applications is desktop applications. This service was named VoIP software. It will allow you to use different software from voice-chat which was loaded on your PC desktop to IP-based telecommunications networks, such as Mac, which are used in large corporations.
On the one hand, VoIP technologies is technology investment which will allow to develop a lot of streams that will make possible to get your own profit.
On the other hand, VoIP technologies will alow to simplify your corporate network and to make some imrovements of telephony experience for users of network, this is a great advantage for enterprise network engineer.
For the home user, VoIP technologies is really great possibility to cut the charges on the old telephone bill.
Services based on VoIP
Many companies suggest voice calling services which are really cheap. This is realised with the help of your broadband connection. Some of the offer calling services even cheaper than $9.95 per month. This is allowed with the help of VoIP technologies. Providers of IP service over voice usually use the internet to transfer voice signals from their own networks up to the phone located at your home. That is why their bills are much more cheaper that bills of other companies, because VoIP telecommunication is not organised in that way like traditional telecommunication phone lines.
What is expected for VoIP in the future?
One of the new VoIP technologies is cell-phones based on VoIP. It is almos ready for application. It will allow people to avoid interruption of communication driving your car, entering your office and then the signal will be transmitted to your laptop using Wi-Fi network. This type of technology is already existing but it is not widely used.
There are also a lot of different VoIP technologies which are not very widespread today. But it is expected the great future for them.
VoIP for Your Loved Ones
VoIP for Your Loved Ones
by Dennis Jaylon
VoIP has more benefits than just work-related advantages. It has entered our households, our leisure zones and in many other different things that are associated with our lives and lifestyle. VoIP has helped the anxious mother stay in touch with her sons and daughters living abroad, on a day-to-day basis. VoIP has helped the wife to stay connected with her husband (touring to different countries) and ensure his well-being. VoIP has enabled the boyfriend (transferred to another country with job) to speak to his girlfriend for long hours. VoIP is helping us to do all that plus much more.
VoIP comes in various avatars. You can utilise VoIP services through your computer or laptop with Internet connection. Now you have VoIP enabled phones. Some VoIP phones come with Skype facilities while others have Messenger service. VoIP phones can be used both for chatting as well as calling. It is as simple as using Skype or Messenger through your computer. The only difference is that you do not require your laptop or desktop to use VoIP. All you need is an Internet connection; one can also use VOIP enabled phones for call termination.
Apart from VoIP phones, you can also use VoIP in Smartphones, PDAs and palmtops. These devices, some of them at least, come with ready VoIP facilities. However, an important thing to remember while deploying VOIP services is the Internet connection. You can get this connection through any VOIP service providers. There are numerous service providers out there. But you have to be careful while choosing one. You have to see the services provided by each of them and whether they can meet your requirements. Also, the rates part is important - do not forget to check that out. Having done that, you can select one service provider and enjoy VoIP facilities to your heart's content.
by Dennis Jaylon
VoIP has more benefits than just work-related advantages. It has entered our households, our leisure zones and in many other different things that are associated with our lives and lifestyle. VoIP has helped the anxious mother stay in touch with her sons and daughters living abroad, on a day-to-day basis. VoIP has helped the wife to stay connected with her husband (touring to different countries) and ensure his well-being. VoIP has enabled the boyfriend (transferred to another country with job) to speak to his girlfriend for long hours. VoIP is helping us to do all that plus much more.
VoIP comes in various avatars. You can utilise VoIP services through your computer or laptop with Internet connection. Now you have VoIP enabled phones. Some VoIP phones come with Skype facilities while others have Messenger service. VoIP phones can be used both for chatting as well as calling. It is as simple as using Skype or Messenger through your computer. The only difference is that you do not require your laptop or desktop to use VoIP. All you need is an Internet connection; one can also use VOIP enabled phones for call termination.
Apart from VoIP phones, you can also use VoIP in Smartphones, PDAs and palmtops. These devices, some of them at least, come with ready VoIP facilities. However, an important thing to remember while deploying VOIP services is the Internet connection. You can get this connection through any VOIP service providers. There are numerous service providers out there. But you have to be careful while choosing one. You have to see the services provided by each of them and whether they can meet your requirements. Also, the rates part is important - do not forget to check that out. Having done that, you can select one service provider and enjoy VoIP facilities to your heart's content.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Simple Strategies for VoIP Implementation
Simple Strategies for VoIP Implementation
Business managers and owners are looking at new ways to stay ahead of the game. Current ads promise that IP Telephony is the answer to many of today's business dilemmas. While technology can be used to enhance a business model, technology for technology sake is never the answer. If it has been determined that IP Telephony is one of the tools to boost productivity and customer service; there are ways to purchase that technology.
Years ago, many businesses utilized Centrex lines to reduce large capital expenditures for telephone equipment. This meant that the business kept no main telephone equipment on site, it simply "rented" lines and telephones for each of their phone locations. The goal was to enhance features while reducing cost. However, the opposite became true when new and less expensive competitors were able to compete with the local phone companies. A company that was in business for 10+ years could have easily purchased a phone system of their own a couple times over. Today, the phone company and other IP service providers are offering the next generation of this concept - - Hosted IP or IP Centrex.
The hosted IP/IP Centrex services do offer some very nice benefits including very little or no capital outlay for new phones and features, plus a highly flexible disaster recovery plan for incoming communication.
Some questions that should be asked before instituting a contract for Hosted IP/IP Centrex are as follows: 1.Are the additional features going to enhance business practices? 2.Can the provider effectively deliver 9-1-1 calls? 3.If the goal is monthly payments rather than a large capital purchase - is there a lease option or other type of solution that would provide equity when the term is attained? 4.Is the IP Centrex vendor going to be able to service the contract until completion? Remember that even though a vendor may be new to this type of service, if they have proven to stand by other service roll-outs it may not be a huge risk. 5.Are there short term contracts available? Try to obtain a contract that has a business downturn clause that will allow a reduction of lines so payment is not required for phones no longer need. 6.Is there an installation fee? And if so will this fee combined with the monthly payments exceed a new system purchase?
Many people in the business community today utilize digital telephone systems by a variety of manufacturers. Some manufacturers such as CISCO, 3-Com or Interactive Intelligence only offer IP Telephony. However, others such as NEC, Inter-Tel, Toshiba, Avaya, etc. offer a combination of both digital and IP Telephony or all of one or the other. There are inherent differences between the two technologies. Digital Technology 1.Uses cables that are separate from the computer system. 2.Does not have to run on CAT5 or CAT6 cable. 3.Typically has a telephone cabinet with a processor and separate circuit boards for connection of lines and phones. 4.Very reliable
IP Technology 1.Can run on the same cable as the computer. 2.Must be connected to a minimum of a CAT5 cable even if it does not share with the computer on the desk. 3.Stores system software on a server, in a router or in a traditional telephone cabinet. 4.Competes with bandwidth on the data network.
IP Telephony has benefits that are great for some companies and irrelevant for others. 1.Ability to connect remote workers using a cable modem, DSL line or other high speed internet connection. 2.Customized call routing based upon inbound caller identification, status ID for callers (known as presence). 3.Advanced custom applications. Attendance and student record review in a school district, database integration for car dealership sales and service departments, inventory control and updates for manufacturing companies. 4.Desk to Desk video at a very inexpensive rate. 5.One network to maintain.
While there are benefits to this technology, there are also things to watch out and prepare for (This is just a partial list). *Now that the phone system is part of the data system it is vulnerable to viruses and other spy-ware threats. *Warranty times are generally far less traditional phone systems so the on-going maintenance costs may start 90 days following installation. *IP phones require power at each phone - either by a local power outlet or data switch equipped with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability. *Quality of Service (QoS) is vital to prioritize voice over data calls. *IP phone have more stringent distance limitations. *A ten year life cycle cannot be anticipated. *Analog lines (plain old telephone lines) and analog phones, fax, modems, etc. are often challenging and costly to connect to a full IP system. *Data cable (minimum CAT5 rating) must be available at each phone location. *The environment must be conducive to the IP equipment. Certain manufacturing floors require refrigerated and sealed cabinets for their PC's. The same would be required for an IP phone set. *Internal support departments may need to be structured. If there are separate support groups for voice and data they may need to be combined or one eliminated. This assessment is extremely important to the success of an IP Telephony project. Do not overlook this important aspect before making a purchasing decision. Uneducated decisions are recipes for disaster in any project. Don't rush into a change of this magnitude. Take the time to assess the business functions, the existing network infrastructure and support groups, and make sure the environment and resources are in place this type of change.
Business managers and owners are looking at new ways to stay ahead of the game. Current ads promise that IP Telephony is the answer to many of today's business dilemmas. While technology can be used to enhance a business model, technology for technology sake is never the answer. If it has been determined that IP Telephony is one of the tools to boost productivity and customer service; there are ways to purchase that technology.
Years ago, many businesses utilized Centrex lines to reduce large capital expenditures for telephone equipment. This meant that the business kept no main telephone equipment on site, it simply "rented" lines and telephones for each of their phone locations. The goal was to enhance features while reducing cost. However, the opposite became true when new and less expensive competitors were able to compete with the local phone companies. A company that was in business for 10+ years could have easily purchased a phone system of their own a couple times over. Today, the phone company and other IP service providers are offering the next generation of this concept - - Hosted IP or IP Centrex.
The hosted IP/IP Centrex services do offer some very nice benefits including very little or no capital outlay for new phones and features, plus a highly flexible disaster recovery plan for incoming communication.
Some questions that should be asked before instituting a contract for Hosted IP/IP Centrex are as follows: 1.Are the additional features going to enhance business practices? 2.Can the provider effectively deliver 9-1-1 calls? 3.If the goal is monthly payments rather than a large capital purchase - is there a lease option or other type of solution that would provide equity when the term is attained? 4.Is the IP Centrex vendor going to be able to service the contract until completion? Remember that even though a vendor may be new to this type of service, if they have proven to stand by other service roll-outs it may not be a huge risk. 5.Are there short term contracts available? Try to obtain a contract that has a business downturn clause that will allow a reduction of lines so payment is not required for phones no longer need. 6.Is there an installation fee? And if so will this fee combined with the monthly payments exceed a new system purchase?
Many people in the business community today utilize digital telephone systems by a variety of manufacturers. Some manufacturers such as CISCO, 3-Com or Interactive Intelligence only offer IP Telephony. However, others such as NEC, Inter-Tel, Toshiba, Avaya, etc. offer a combination of both digital and IP Telephony or all of one or the other. There are inherent differences between the two technologies. Digital Technology 1.Uses cables that are separate from the computer system. 2.Does not have to run on CAT5 or CAT6 cable. 3.Typically has a telephone cabinet with a processor and separate circuit boards for connection of lines and phones. 4.Very reliable
IP Technology 1.Can run on the same cable as the computer. 2.Must be connected to a minimum of a CAT5 cable even if it does not share with the computer on the desk. 3.Stores system software on a server, in a router or in a traditional telephone cabinet. 4.Competes with bandwidth on the data network.
IP Telephony has benefits that are great for some companies and irrelevant for others. 1.Ability to connect remote workers using a cable modem, DSL line or other high speed internet connection. 2.Customized call routing based upon inbound caller identification, status ID for callers (known as presence). 3.Advanced custom applications. Attendance and student record review in a school district, database integration for car dealership sales and service departments, inventory control and updates for manufacturing companies. 4.Desk to Desk video at a very inexpensive rate. 5.One network to maintain.
While there are benefits to this technology, there are also things to watch out and prepare for (This is just a partial list). *Now that the phone system is part of the data system it is vulnerable to viruses and other spy-ware threats. *Warranty times are generally far less traditional phone systems so the on-going maintenance costs may start 90 days following installation. *IP phones require power at each phone - either by a local power outlet or data switch equipped with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability. *Quality of Service (QoS) is vital to prioritize voice over data calls. *IP phone have more stringent distance limitations. *A ten year life cycle cannot be anticipated. *Analog lines (plain old telephone lines) and analog phones, fax, modems, etc. are often challenging and costly to connect to a full IP system. *Data cable (minimum CAT5 rating) must be available at each phone location. *The environment must be conducive to the IP equipment. Certain manufacturing floors require refrigerated and sealed cabinets for their PC's. The same would be required for an IP phone set. *Internal support departments may need to be structured. If there are separate support groups for voice and data they may need to be combined or one eliminated. This assessment is extremely important to the success of an IP Telephony project. Do not overlook this important aspect before making a purchasing decision. Uneducated decisions are recipes for disaster in any project. Don't rush into a change of this magnitude. Take the time to assess the business functions, the existing network infrastructure and support groups, and make sure the environment and resources are in place this type of change.
Choosing A VOIP Provider
Choosing A VOIP Provider
by Ron King
There are 2 basic VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) provider options: free services or paid providers that charge a monthly fee. Making that choice depends on how you plan to use VOIP.
If you just want to chat with friends and family over the Internet, a free service may be adequate. If you're looking for a true alternative to normal phone service, however, consider a VOIP service with a paid package deal.
Package Choices
There are so many choices. To determine which is the best service for your money, you must decide which services you need, and whether you want to quit your existing telephone service completely. Most VOIP providers offer package plans with free calls to a designated geographical area. Nearly all providers offer free call waiting, call display, and conference call services.
Even though the basic package for a similar fee is the same with most providers, there is a great rivalry between VOIP service providers, with each striving to offer services that set them apart from their competitors. To make the right choice, you'll have to check several packages to find the best for your needs.
For example, if you make a lot of overseas calls, a package that includes international calls makes sense. Or if you receive most of your calls from a specific city, get a package that offers a specific phone number that allows people to call you at that local rate.
Service and reliability are other critical factors when selecting a VOIP provider. This information is available from reviews on the internet or by asking your friends which providers they use. One suggestion is to find a provider offering a money-back guarantee.
Find out how much bandwidth is required for a particular VOIP service. If the information is not available from the company's web site, send an e-mail to verify that your broadband connection is suitable for their VOIP service. Usually 128 kbps on the upload side is sufficient.
Problems
Emergency calls are 1 of the technical drawbacks with VOIP, because it's hard to determine your physical location on VOIP calls. 911 calls may not be routed to the correct call center, and if they are, operators can't establish your location if you are unable to communicate. The Federal Communications Commission, in the United States, is demanding that VOIP service providers find a solution.
Providing phone service during a power outage is another technical problem. Since VOIP requires electrical current to operate modems, in a power outage the VOIP phone line goes dead. One solution is to use a computer with a battery backup. Another is an electrical generator to provides emergency household electricity.
Finally, you may want to retain your existing phone service after signing up for VOIP. Not all providers offer this service, so if it's important, verify that ability in advance.
by Ron King
There are 2 basic VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) provider options: free services or paid providers that charge a monthly fee. Making that choice depends on how you plan to use VOIP.
If you just want to chat with friends and family over the Internet, a free service may be adequate. If you're looking for a true alternative to normal phone service, however, consider a VOIP service with a paid package deal.
Package Choices
There are so many choices. To determine which is the best service for your money, you must decide which services you need, and whether you want to quit your existing telephone service completely. Most VOIP providers offer package plans with free calls to a designated geographical area. Nearly all providers offer free call waiting, call display, and conference call services.
Even though the basic package for a similar fee is the same with most providers, there is a great rivalry between VOIP service providers, with each striving to offer services that set them apart from their competitors. To make the right choice, you'll have to check several packages to find the best for your needs.
For example, if you make a lot of overseas calls, a package that includes international calls makes sense. Or if you receive most of your calls from a specific city, get a package that offers a specific phone number that allows people to call you at that local rate.
Service and reliability are other critical factors when selecting a VOIP provider. This information is available from reviews on the internet or by asking your friends which providers they use. One suggestion is to find a provider offering a money-back guarantee.
Find out how much bandwidth is required for a particular VOIP service. If the information is not available from the company's web site, send an e-mail to verify that your broadband connection is suitable for their VOIP service. Usually 128 kbps on the upload side is sufficient.
Problems
Emergency calls are 1 of the technical drawbacks with VOIP, because it's hard to determine your physical location on VOIP calls. 911 calls may not be routed to the correct call center, and if they are, operators can't establish your location if you are unable to communicate. The Federal Communications Commission, in the United States, is demanding that VOIP service providers find a solution.
Providing phone service during a power outage is another technical problem. Since VOIP requires electrical current to operate modems, in a power outage the VOIP phone line goes dead. One solution is to use a computer with a battery backup. Another is an electrical generator to provides emergency household electricity.
Finally, you may want to retain your existing phone service after signing up for VOIP. Not all providers offer this service, so if it's important, verify that ability in advance.
Equipment Options For VOIP Communication
Equipment Options For VOIP Communication
by Ron King
The marriage of computer and telephone technology goes by the funny name of VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). But the cost savings are no laughing matter.
The Simplest Solution -- Headphones
Attach a headset to your computer's sound card and you can try VOIP for free!
Download any one of the many VOIP software packages -- Skype, Gizmo, Free World Dialup, and Net2Phone are some of the big names. Install and invite your buddies to install the same software. It's that easy to set up. Special features like call display, call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calls are also free as long as both parties are using computers.
It's even easier to use. Just click on a name to start a call. Most of these so-called "soft phones" allow you to place and receive calls at no charge to and from anywhere in the world, so long as you are not connecting to cellular or landline phones.
Internet Phones
The next step up from headsets is Internet phones. They plug into the USB port or sound card of your computer.
Because you still need VOIP software installed on your computer to make and receive calls, these phones are also considered soft phones. But they seem more like "real" telephones because they ring, have regular number pads and are used like conventional phones.
Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA)
Progressing up the VOIP ladder, ATA is next. It allows you to connect a regular analog telephone to a broadband modem. It is usually free when you sign up with a provider, similar to signing up with a telephone company. There is a monthly charge for this service, and you may have to sign a contract committing you to that provider for a specified period.
Using an ATA for Internet phone calls is straightforward. You pick up the phone and dial a number. Anyone calling you won't even know that you are using VOIP.
A computer is not needed for this kind of link. It connects to either a DSL modem linked to your phone line or cable modem attached to your cable television connection. Any traditional telephone can also be plugged into an ATA.
You can even take your ATA with you when you're traveling and receive phone calls from anywhere by connecting it to any broadband modem. Calls to your home phone number will be routed to your ATA (which has a unique identification) at the same cost as the call to your residence.
IP Phone
The final VOIP option is an IP phone (not the same as an Internet Phone). IP phones plug directly into the modem; Internet phones plug into the sound card or USB port of your computer.
An IP phone is a handset that has all the hardware and software built into it. You connect an IP phone to a broadband modem, then make or receive calls the same way that you would with an ATA. The advantage of an IP phone over an ATA is that it is a completely integrated unit. You don't need an extra telephone to plug into it. Another IP phone advantage is that your phone numbers are all stored and the display screen provides information about incoming calls.
There you have it: 4 choices that will all add up to substantial telephone savings.
by Ron King
The marriage of computer and telephone technology goes by the funny name of VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). But the cost savings are no laughing matter.
The Simplest Solution -- Headphones
Attach a headset to your computer's sound card and you can try VOIP for free!
Download any one of the many VOIP software packages -- Skype, Gizmo, Free World Dialup, and Net2Phone are some of the big names. Install and invite your buddies to install the same software. It's that easy to set up. Special features like call display, call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calls are also free as long as both parties are using computers.
It's even easier to use. Just click on a name to start a call. Most of these so-called "soft phones" allow you to place and receive calls at no charge to and from anywhere in the world, so long as you are not connecting to cellular or landline phones.
Internet Phones
The next step up from headsets is Internet phones. They plug into the USB port or sound card of your computer.
Because you still need VOIP software installed on your computer to make and receive calls, these phones are also considered soft phones. But they seem more like "real" telephones because they ring, have regular number pads and are used like conventional phones.
Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA)
Progressing up the VOIP ladder, ATA is next. It allows you to connect a regular analog telephone to a broadband modem. It is usually free when you sign up with a provider, similar to signing up with a telephone company. There is a monthly charge for this service, and you may have to sign a contract committing you to that provider for a specified period.
Using an ATA for Internet phone calls is straightforward. You pick up the phone and dial a number. Anyone calling you won't even know that you are using VOIP.
A computer is not needed for this kind of link. It connects to either a DSL modem linked to your phone line or cable modem attached to your cable television connection. Any traditional telephone can also be plugged into an ATA.
You can even take your ATA with you when you're traveling and receive phone calls from anywhere by connecting it to any broadband modem. Calls to your home phone number will be routed to your ATA (which has a unique identification) at the same cost as the call to your residence.
IP Phone
The final VOIP option is an IP phone (not the same as an Internet Phone). IP phones plug directly into the modem; Internet phones plug into the sound card or USB port of your computer.
An IP phone is a handset that has all the hardware and software built into it. You connect an IP phone to a broadband modem, then make or receive calls the same way that you would with an ATA. The advantage of an IP phone over an ATA is that it is a completely integrated unit. You don't need an extra telephone to plug into it. Another IP phone advantage is that your phone numbers are all stored and the display screen provides information about incoming calls.
There you have it: 4 choices that will all add up to substantial telephone savings.
Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?
Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?
by Andrew Kelly
VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This translates into free, or very low cost long-distance calling. Because VoIP uses the power of the Internet, traditional phone companies are left completely out of the loop. Of course, now that the idea of VoIP is catching on more and more, traditional phone companies are developing and offering their own VoIP options so as not to be left out. From the consumer's point of view, this competition is keeping options open and pricing low. For businesses, this is particularly good news, since many VoIP providers will want the business of business--this is a huge market, which providers are aware, of, so the savvy businessperson will take advantage of this, conduct thorough research, and seek out the best possible option to meet the company's needs.
What are the Pros to Using VoIP?
Cost is a number one factor. If your business does a high volume of long distance calling, this can be an extremely affordable way to go. Another positive is that the future of long distance calling is VoIP. As time passes, more and more options will be available and the market will become even more competitive. It is also easy to use, although a business set-up will be more complicated than a home set-up.
What are the Cons?
One disadvantage that many users report is that there tends to be an "echo" when using VoIP. How much of a disadvantage this is may depend on the user. There can also be a slight lag at the beginning of the conversation.
Another potential disadvantage is that the technology is fairly new. As VoIP becomes standard, improvements will take place. In the meantime, it is up to each business to determine if this is a way to go.
Also, because VoIP operates through your Internet connection, should you lose Internet service for whatever reason or power, you will not have phone access until the service or power is restored.
Is VoIP Right for my Business?
As with any business decision, you should examine your needs and available services before making a purchasing decision. VoIP may produce substantial savings, but it could also produce substantial headaches. Whether or not your company can navigate potential glitches with minimal interruption is something you need to determine. Many traditional service providers offer competitive pricing, and the security of the existing structure may not be worth the potential problems with VoIP. It is also necessary to price and compare the technical requirements; will your existing structure support VoIP, or will the investment in technology offset the potential savings?
VoIP Business Options
On the bright side, because VoIP is a growing service, many companies provide business solutions and the offers and pricing are competitive. One thing to consider as you compare options is contract terms. Because the technology is expanding, it is wise to avoid any long- term contract, as a better option may come along in the meantime. A variety of companies offer business solutions. The following list is just a few:
•Sprint: http://www.sprint.com/business/products/categories/voip.jsp
•Lingo: http://www.lingo.com/voip/business/unlimited_internet_phone_ service.jsp
•Quest: http://www.qwest.com/largebusiness/products/voip/
•Pipex: http://www.pipex.net/products/voip/
How to Get Set Up for VoIP The technology required will depend on the service you choose. There are three types of VoIP methods.
•ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor. It connects to your computer or Internet connection and uses regular phone.
•IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect with an Ethernet connector.
•Computer-to-computer is an easy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you only pay for the software. While this method can work in a business setting, it may not be the best solution, even though it is very cost effective.
VoIP requires a high-speed Internet connection, and for business purposes, your set-up needs to be able to handle the additional use that VoIP incurs. Essentially, there is no "one size fits all" set-up guide for business VoIP options. The service you choose and your company's individual requirements will determine what you will need.
by Andrew Kelly
VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This translates into free, or very low cost long-distance calling. Because VoIP uses the power of the Internet, traditional phone companies are left completely out of the loop. Of course, now that the idea of VoIP is catching on more and more, traditional phone companies are developing and offering their own VoIP options so as not to be left out. From the consumer's point of view, this competition is keeping options open and pricing low. For businesses, this is particularly good news, since many VoIP providers will want the business of business--this is a huge market, which providers are aware, of, so the savvy businessperson will take advantage of this, conduct thorough research, and seek out the best possible option to meet the company's needs.
What are the Pros to Using VoIP?
Cost is a number one factor. If your business does a high volume of long distance calling, this can be an extremely affordable way to go. Another positive is that the future of long distance calling is VoIP. As time passes, more and more options will be available and the market will become even more competitive. It is also easy to use, although a business set-up will be more complicated than a home set-up.
What are the Cons?
One disadvantage that many users report is that there tends to be an "echo" when using VoIP. How much of a disadvantage this is may depend on the user. There can also be a slight lag at the beginning of the conversation.
Another potential disadvantage is that the technology is fairly new. As VoIP becomes standard, improvements will take place. In the meantime, it is up to each business to determine if this is a way to go.
Also, because VoIP operates through your Internet connection, should you lose Internet service for whatever reason or power, you will not have phone access until the service or power is restored.
Is VoIP Right for my Business?
As with any business decision, you should examine your needs and available services before making a purchasing decision. VoIP may produce substantial savings, but it could also produce substantial headaches. Whether or not your company can navigate potential glitches with minimal interruption is something you need to determine. Many traditional service providers offer competitive pricing, and the security of the existing structure may not be worth the potential problems with VoIP. It is also necessary to price and compare the technical requirements; will your existing structure support VoIP, or will the investment in technology offset the potential savings?
VoIP Business Options
On the bright side, because VoIP is a growing service, many companies provide business solutions and the offers and pricing are competitive. One thing to consider as you compare options is contract terms. Because the technology is expanding, it is wise to avoid any long- term contract, as a better option may come along in the meantime. A variety of companies offer business solutions. The following list is just a few:
•Sprint: http://www.sprint.com/business/products/categories/voip.jsp
•Lingo: http://www.lingo.com/voip/business/unlimited_internet_phone_ service.jsp
•Quest: http://www.qwest.com/largebusiness/products/voip/
•Pipex: http://www.pipex.net/products/voip/
How to Get Set Up for VoIP The technology required will depend on the service you choose. There are three types of VoIP methods.
•ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor. It connects to your computer or Internet connection and uses regular phone.
•IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect with an Ethernet connector.
•Computer-to-computer is an easy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you only pay for the software. While this method can work in a business setting, it may not be the best solution, even though it is very cost effective.
VoIP requires a high-speed Internet connection, and for business purposes, your set-up needs to be able to handle the additional use that VoIP incurs. Essentially, there is no "one size fits all" set-up guide for business VoIP options. The service you choose and your company's individual requirements will determine what you will need.
Does Voice Over IP Telephony Spell the End for Traditional Telephones?
Does Voice Over IP Telephony Spell the End for Traditional Telephones?
by Nick Carter
Just What is Voice Over IP Telephony?
Voice over Internet Telephony is technology that means you can hold telephone calls over the Internet or an IP network. It eliminates the need for having separate lines for your Internet connection and dedicated voice transfer lines. There are many advantages to VoIP but because it is still an advancing technology you need to shop around to find the best deal. No cumbersome circuit switching is required and there is no depletion in the bandwidth associated with normal dual line systems. VoIP protocol means that voice data is only sent over the network when it needs to be, freeing up that bandwidth when you aren't making 'calls'.
What are the Advantages of VoIP.
Voice over Internet Telephony isn't widely used in office networks, let alone in the home, however if you make international phone calls then you are probably being routed through IP infrastructure because of the lower costs of calls. What this does mean, though, is that the infrastructure is quite obviously already in place and anyone who chooses can do so easily. This means that you can 'call' friends, family or associates using your own VoIP without the need for them to have the same technology installed.
The costs are phone calls that are reduced dramatically by using VoIP and once the infrastructure is in place there are usually little or no additional infrastructure charges required making it a cost effective and affordable telephony solution.
Because VoIP is a new technology you get the usual advantages of employing a new technology; increased technological advances and new technologies are employed meaning you get a state of the art system. Telecommunications providers have been regularly using IP networks to transfer voice data and so most of the teething problems have been thoroughly investigated and ironed out and all the advancements made have been integrated into a system you can have installed in your home, office or business.
You don't necessarily have to transmit your calls over the Internet, and for more secure calls you can use private IP networks. For this reason many large businesses already have IP systems in place making inter-business calls much cheaper.
Electronic numbering makes it possible to dial traditional E 164 phone numbers connected entirely by your Internet connection. This means that you won't face any call charges whatsoever, and all you will have to pay will be the cost of your Internet connection.
Is VoIP available for me to use now?
Companies like Vonage, VoicePulse and Packet8 are already offering flat monthly fees for their VoIP services meaning you can call anywhere in the country (sometimes even to other selected countries around the world) and only ever pay one flat monthly fee.
Vonage offer a service for $24.99 a month that allows you to call anywhere in the US or Canada. They also offer similar plans for small businesses.
Are there any disadvantages to VoIP?
VoIP, as a technology, is still in it's infancy and new developments are being found every day. However, there are limitations to the service and the technology which need to be addresses before it can become a complete replacement for your standard phone line.
Because the Internet knows no geographic boundaries it means that, for example, calling the emergency services would not necessarily put you through to your local emergency dispatch centre.
In addition, you can't send or receive faxes and you can't route traditional modems, alarm systems or satellite systems through your VoIP connection, because they require access to a voice grade phone line. For the moment VoIP is a compliment to your traditional phone line, rather than a replacement, until these problems can be ironed out.
The advent of the Internet and improved telephone technology has seen the introduction of VoIP. It means you can make phone calls through your broadband connection; this in turn means that for a set monthly fee you can call anywhere in your country and selected international countries for as long as required and only pay one flat monthly fee.
The advantages of VoIP are still significant for homes and business users alike. Big businesses are already saving substantial money by installing IP networks and using VoIP protocol to transfer voice data. This essentially makes the calls themselves free, only having to pay for the Internet connection and the monthly VoIP fee.
by Nick Carter
Just What is Voice Over IP Telephony?
Voice over Internet Telephony is technology that means you can hold telephone calls over the Internet or an IP network. It eliminates the need for having separate lines for your Internet connection and dedicated voice transfer lines. There are many advantages to VoIP but because it is still an advancing technology you need to shop around to find the best deal. No cumbersome circuit switching is required and there is no depletion in the bandwidth associated with normal dual line systems. VoIP protocol means that voice data is only sent over the network when it needs to be, freeing up that bandwidth when you aren't making 'calls'.
What are the Advantages of VoIP.
Voice over Internet Telephony isn't widely used in office networks, let alone in the home, however if you make international phone calls then you are probably being routed through IP infrastructure because of the lower costs of calls. What this does mean, though, is that the infrastructure is quite obviously already in place and anyone who chooses can do so easily. This means that you can 'call' friends, family or associates using your own VoIP without the need for them to have the same technology installed.
The costs are phone calls that are reduced dramatically by using VoIP and once the infrastructure is in place there are usually little or no additional infrastructure charges required making it a cost effective and affordable telephony solution.
Because VoIP is a new technology you get the usual advantages of employing a new technology; increased technological advances and new technologies are employed meaning you get a state of the art system. Telecommunications providers have been regularly using IP networks to transfer voice data and so most of the teething problems have been thoroughly investigated and ironed out and all the advancements made have been integrated into a system you can have installed in your home, office or business.
You don't necessarily have to transmit your calls over the Internet, and for more secure calls you can use private IP networks. For this reason many large businesses already have IP systems in place making inter-business calls much cheaper.
Electronic numbering makes it possible to dial traditional E 164 phone numbers connected entirely by your Internet connection. This means that you won't face any call charges whatsoever, and all you will have to pay will be the cost of your Internet connection.
Is VoIP available for me to use now?
Companies like Vonage, VoicePulse and Packet8 are already offering flat monthly fees for their VoIP services meaning you can call anywhere in the country (sometimes even to other selected countries around the world) and only ever pay one flat monthly fee.
Vonage offer a service for $24.99 a month that allows you to call anywhere in the US or Canada. They also offer similar plans for small businesses.
Are there any disadvantages to VoIP?
VoIP, as a technology, is still in it's infancy and new developments are being found every day. However, there are limitations to the service and the technology which need to be addresses before it can become a complete replacement for your standard phone line.
Because the Internet knows no geographic boundaries it means that, for example, calling the emergency services would not necessarily put you through to your local emergency dispatch centre.
In addition, you can't send or receive faxes and you can't route traditional modems, alarm systems or satellite systems through your VoIP connection, because they require access to a voice grade phone line. For the moment VoIP is a compliment to your traditional phone line, rather than a replacement, until these problems can be ironed out.
The advent of the Internet and improved telephone technology has seen the introduction of VoIP. It means you can make phone calls through your broadband connection; this in turn means that for a set monthly fee you can call anywhere in your country and selected international countries for as long as required and only pay one flat monthly fee.
The advantages of VoIP are still significant for homes and business users alike. Big businesses are already saving substantial money by installing IP networks and using VoIP protocol to transfer voice data. This essentially makes the calls themselves free, only having to pay for the Internet connection and the monthly VoIP fee.
Conducting a VoIP Readiness Assessment of Your Corporate Network
Conducting a VoIP Readiness Assessment of Your Corporate Network
by TelCon Associates, Inc
2005 is predicted to be the year of voice over IP (VoIP) solutions for a growing number of corporate enterprises - both large and small.
If you have been considering the benefits of implementing VoIP, you are certainly not alone. In its just-published "2005 Telecommunications Report," Harris Interactive found that 87% of business decision-makers are familiar with VoIP and, of that number, 12% currently use it in their organizations.
So what's the big attraction?
Cost mainly. But lowering company telecom expenses is just one aspect of the lure of implementing VoIP solutions. Other advantages include the potential for value-added services and the capability of more advanced features made possible through the integration of voice and data (e.g. videoconferencing, advanced voicemail features,etc.)
Sounds good, but here's the rub...it's also been estimated that up to 85% of corporate networks are simply not ready to handle VoIP.
Combining voice with data is a tricky proposition. After decades of getting used to near-perfect sound quality delivered over traditional voice networks, even the slightest delays in voip can be very annoying.
Before diving in to a full-blown VoIP solution, it is advisable that you conduct a voice over IP readiness assessment of your existing network. This assessment will provide you with two very important pieces of information:
1) The capability of your existing data network to deliver high-quality voip calls, and; 2) the ability to evaluate the quality of these calls during a wide variety of traffic scenarios. Keep in mind that most data networks were not designed for VoIP, so chances are that some upgrading of your existing network will be necessary.
One critical requirement for VoIP to work is QoS. (Short for Quality of Service, a networking term that specifies a guaranteed throughput level). For QoS to work, the routers and switches that manage the data traffic flow in your network must be able to prioritize VoIP data packets via QoS.
4 Steps to a Successful VoIP Readiness Assessment
1) Conduct a complete inventory of your existing network. Identify routers, switches and links in your network and store their configuration data in a database. This step is crucial before you can move to step 2.
2) Determine the current CPU, memory and bandwidth of your network devices, routers and switches. This information will give you a "baseline" of your existing network infrastructure and current capacity.
3) Simulate and compare VoIP usage scenarios to estimate the call capacity of the network.
4) Determine how well VoIP will perform on your network by measuring simulated VoIP traffic and calculating call quality based on a Mean Opinion Score (MOS).
We have recently added a VoIP bandwidth calculator tool to help you determine various codec, MOS, and bandwidth scenarios. Go to www.telconassociates.com for more information.
While VoIP can ride over the highways that your data currently does, it is a new application with new rules. A VoIP readiness assessment will give you the information you need to incorporate a VoIP solution without unnecessary hassles and expenses due to lack of proper planning and research.
If you are considering migrating to VoIP and need help, contact us and we'll help guide you to the right sources.
TelCon Associates For 32 years, TelCon Associates has helped companies of all sizes gain control and reduce telecom spending through their proprietary methods of telecom audits, telecom bill management and telecom audit training. Visit www.telconassociates.com for more information and free news and resources in the telecom industry.
by TelCon Associates, Inc
2005 is predicted to be the year of voice over IP (VoIP) solutions for a growing number of corporate enterprises - both large and small.
If you have been considering the benefits of implementing VoIP, you are certainly not alone. In its just-published "2005 Telecommunications Report," Harris Interactive found that 87% of business decision-makers are familiar with VoIP and, of that number, 12% currently use it in their organizations.
So what's the big attraction?
Cost mainly. But lowering company telecom expenses is just one aspect of the lure of implementing VoIP solutions. Other advantages include the potential for value-added services and the capability of more advanced features made possible through the integration of voice and data (e.g. videoconferencing, advanced voicemail features,etc.)
Sounds good, but here's the rub...it's also been estimated that up to 85% of corporate networks are simply not ready to handle VoIP.
Combining voice with data is a tricky proposition. After decades of getting used to near-perfect sound quality delivered over traditional voice networks, even the slightest delays in voip can be very annoying.
Before diving in to a full-blown VoIP solution, it is advisable that you conduct a voice over IP readiness assessment of your existing network. This assessment will provide you with two very important pieces of information:
1) The capability of your existing data network to deliver high-quality voip calls, and; 2) the ability to evaluate the quality of these calls during a wide variety of traffic scenarios. Keep in mind that most data networks were not designed for VoIP, so chances are that some upgrading of your existing network will be necessary.
One critical requirement for VoIP to work is QoS. (Short for Quality of Service, a networking term that specifies a guaranteed throughput level). For QoS to work, the routers and switches that manage the data traffic flow in your network must be able to prioritize VoIP data packets via QoS.
4 Steps to a Successful VoIP Readiness Assessment
1) Conduct a complete inventory of your existing network. Identify routers, switches and links in your network and store their configuration data in a database. This step is crucial before you can move to step 2.
2) Determine the current CPU, memory and bandwidth of your network devices, routers and switches. This information will give you a "baseline" of your existing network infrastructure and current capacity.
3) Simulate and compare VoIP usage scenarios to estimate the call capacity of the network.
4) Determine how well VoIP will perform on your network by measuring simulated VoIP traffic and calculating call quality based on a Mean Opinion Score (MOS).
We have recently added a VoIP bandwidth calculator tool to help you determine various codec, MOS, and bandwidth scenarios. Go to www.telconassociates.com for more information.
While VoIP can ride over the highways that your data currently does, it is a new application with new rules. A VoIP readiness assessment will give you the information you need to incorporate a VoIP solution without unnecessary hassles and expenses due to lack of proper planning and research.
If you are considering migrating to VoIP and need help, contact us and we'll help guide you to the right sources.
TelCon Associates For 32 years, TelCon Associates has helped companies of all sizes gain control and reduce telecom spending through their proprietary methods of telecom audits, telecom bill management and telecom audit training. Visit www.telconassociates.com for more information and free news and resources in the telecom industry.
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