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Monday, March 31, 2008

The Different stages that Lead to VoIP Service

The Different stages that Lead to VoIP Service

by Kristen Kiya


VoIP service is an ideal means of sending telephone calls over IP networks. The Voice over IP works on the principle of converting analog signals to small packets of digital data and then sending them over a broadband internet connection that ultimately connects the users with the service providers. There are several advantages of using this service. The main reason why people acquire this connection is quite straightforward; the expenses incurred while making long distance calls using such a service is low as compared to the traditional phone line connections.
As VoIP service is based on the transfer of digital data, so the service provider can actually do a lot with this technology. Among the most prominent of the services that a service provider can provide are storing of incoming voice mails in the mailbox, sending of email attachments and 3 way calling. Let us consider a scenario in which the user is busy and wants not to be disturbed by any telephone calls. In such situations, the incoming calls can be stored in the voice mail of the subscribers. A person can also send a voice mail as an email attachment which can be accessed on a computer. Then there are plans where up to three people can involve themselves in conference calling. In fact, calling through Voice over IP is far from restricted. The service allows the user to talk to the entire family in one call. Then there are also the options of sending images, videos and voice to people with whom a person is conferencing.

The internet does not differentiate between calls made to a person living next door from calls to people living in another part of the world. The call charges remain the same; such is the benevolence of the VoIP phone service. It is the benefit in price rates that makes people opt for this service in the first place. Moreover the technology is simple and one only requires some simple tools to access the service. An Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) is provided by the VoIP service provider. This tool helps to convert analog voice to digital samples by use of Analog to Digital Converter. These digital samples are then compressed by the digital signal processors (DSPs). The DSPs make use of codecs for compression and eventually segmentvoice signals to frames that are then stored asvoice packets. The final process involves transfer of these packets in compliance with Voice Communication Protocol or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP).

When these packets arrive at their destination, they have to be decoded; the entire process is carrier out, albeit in a reverse order. The IP packets are decapsulated in compressed data forms. These data are then decompressed to retrieve the original data making use of the same codec that was initially used to perform the compression. The data is then sent through a digital to analog converter that converts it to the original analog voice format for the listener to hear the voice distinctly. So, VoIP service is actually based on a very simple format but requires fast internet service to ensure an effective and soothing calling experience. This becomes all the more important in the context of business VoIP service, wherein the quality of calls becomes a yardstick in determining the expertise of a particular organization.

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Voip Phones & Pbx High Quality Communication Which Is Better

Voip Phones & Pbx High Quality Communication Which Is Better?

by Daniel Millions


The Siemens Gigaset C470IP VoIP phone comes with dual mode functionality that allows you to switch between internet VoIP and fixed-line calls at the touch of a button. You can make internet calls without a PC and access up to 6 SIP accounts from different VoIP providers directly through the handset.
It allows you the freedom to make 3 parallel calls by using additional Gigaset handsets that wirelessly connect to the same base. Two of these calls can be VoIP calls and one a fixed line call. Finally, its simple and modern design matches any interior or sophisticated decor.

The Gigaset C470IP boasts a handy e-mail notification feature, bringing you alerts of new messages on the set. The details will include the date, time and subject line of the mails. If you happen to be away from home, you can program the Gigaset C470 IP to alert you of any missed calls by sending you an SMS to your cell phone or another external number.

The VoIP phone also provides information services like weather forecasts as screensaver. For multi-taskers with busy lifestyles this phone is a great convenience as its hands free feature allows you to carry on with whatever you happen to be occupied with or just lie back on the couch with your hands behind your head while you enjoy a relaxing chat in brilliant sound quality.

The Gigaset VoIP phone also incorporates the new energy saving ECO DECT technology, which consumes up to 60% less energy than our conventional cordless phones. Like all Gigaset cordless phones, it also variably reduces transmitting power from the handset to base station according to the distance; it also goes further in a number of other ways. Choosing ECO Mode on this model reduces the base station's transmission power by 80%. It is an energy-efficient way of staying connected with your world.

The Gigaset C470IP phones can be combined with an Asterisk PBX to shape an unbeatable wireless VoIP telephony solution for small or very small business or even for hosted PBX and distributed PBX environments. More robust and reliable than a Wifi phone, the Gigaset C470 IP DECT VoIP phones are perfect when wireless freedom is required in business environments.

The Gigaset IP phone can take great advantage of the features that the Asterisk PBX has to offer, especially for setups requiring more than 6 extensions. Finally the phones can be incorporated with more advanced messaging platforms and services that can be integrated with the Asterisk PBX. These subscription services such as RSS feeds and weather information can then be accessible directly via your Gigaset handset.

The Asterisk PBX brings small to medium enterprises a feature-rich, cost-effective, reliable telephony solution. The implementation of the Asterisk allows one connect and make calls between a wide range of different SIP-enabled VoIP phones and soft phones. Asterisk implementation is fairly simple when using available GUIs like Asterisk NOW, but its deployments can get more complex. Combining the Siemens Gigaset C470IP with the Asterisk PBX can create a powerful, robust and flexible solution.

Managed VoIP Services: a support for business users

Managed VoIP Services: a support for business users

by Kristen Kiya


Effective communication is the 'mantra' behind the success of any endeavour - business or otherwise. Whether it is an individual or an institution, there is no substitute for an open channel of dialogue wherein the pressing issues can be resolved and pending situations dealt with. However, for big corporations, it seldom becomes rather difficult to manage their communication infrastructure on their own. And if the infrastructure in question is VoIP, then the management becomes all the more critical. The help of qualified professionals are very much required in such conditions. And this is where the managed VoIP services come in.
Managed VoIP services are just that- they are managed by third party service providers for the corporate clients. These services are like a God-send for the corporations that are contemplating on changing their communication infrastructure from traditional systems to IP telephony. The varied requirements of the corporate users are solved in a comprehensive manner with the users having little to complain about.

The proper running of an IP telephony system requires certain special skill sets that are in short supply. It takes quite a lot of effort on the part of the corporate users wanting to change to Voice over IP to do it using their own resources. Managed VoIP services often become the best available option. The technical resources are delivered by the providers of the managed partitioning services.

In these VoIP services, the infrastructural support- in terms of equipment, software, NOCs, VoIP switch and other such resources are delivered by the service providers themselves. Moreover, the costs of these services are often very reasonable. In addition, with such a service in place, the organizations can keep a track of their cost of operation quite easily and without doing much in terms of active involvement.

Moreover, the voice quality in Voice over IP has seen a lot of improvement in the last couple of years and so the users do not have any reason to complain on this front. As a matter of fact, there are specific parameters for objectively measuring the same and effective steps can be taken if there is any deviation from the standards. The providers of managed partitioning service have the necessary know-how to deliver the same to their clients in the most cost effective manner possible.

More specifically, the VoIP providers of managed switch partitioning must have

1. Skill sets to deploy and manage voice over IP networks in real environments
2. Proven track records for delivering the best in voice quality
3. Expertise for effective monitoring of the system in different situations

The managed VoIP service should ideally be flexible in nature. The providers delivering such services should be stable in their standing. They should be able to offer the necessary equipment and infrastructural support as and when the need for the same arises. They should understand the vision of the company going in for the change and be ready to support them with the technical expertise at their disposal.

Friday, March 28, 2008

VoIP Carriers: a replacement for traditional means of connectivity

VoIP Carriers: a replacement for traditional means of connectivity

by Kristen Kiya


The VoIP carriers have become an ultimate means of achieving connectivity or terminating calls with ease. This works well as the carriers have merged their services with other higher version network providers. This has, in a way, resolved the issue of fast connectivity at low rates for many users - business or otherwise.
In general, the VoIP carriers offer their services to the resellers. The system follows a three tier rule. Tier 1 carriers offer their services to Tier 2 that in turn enables the functioning of Tier 3. The Tire 1 consists of those companies that come with their physical network either in one country or in some regions of the world. The carriers at this level can terminate the voice traffic or can carry forward a call using their own equipment and expertise. The second is the Tier 2 that consists of companies that take the network of Tier1 on leases it in order to terminate international calls. The Tier 3 consists of service providers that make use of Tier 2 or Tier 1 carriers to terminate international calls.

With the introduction of VoIP, several technologies have converged so as to enable a more reliable and sophisticated service in the realms of communication. The convergence of the Internet with other allied networks has led to the generation of an infrastructure that supports the carriers and suppliers of IP telephony services more comprehensively. As there are several suppliers of origination services, so now the VoIP carriers prefer to have connections that give them the flexibility to switch to different origination services as and when the need arises.

This new capability in VoIP carrier service is achieved by a Session Internet Protocol (SIP) that is actually another interconnection. This connection provides unique efficiencies in networking and also maintains flexibility in its design so as to cater to the needs of different categories of carrier customers. Though SIP allows the customer to switch to different origination services but it is actually based on inbound and outbound call service. That is to say that once an inbound call is received, the customers can use the Ă¢€˜Global Crossing CarrierĂ¢€™ or outbound service to send the call back to its destination. So, for a VoIP service provider, SIP is used as a gateway for telephony, internet conferencing, events notification and instant messaging.

The VoIP carrier service is not just restricted to the use of telephone connections and computers. There is more than one way of assessing these services. Quite a few carriers have expanded their services to mobile phones as well. The Wi-Fi technology has enabled receiving of voice over IP services in mobile phones. In fact, the fixed wire-line service providers are facing stringent competition from the mobile "Voice over IP" service providers. In case of mobile, the technology works well if the location where it is installed is Wi-Fi enabled. However, a location can be converted to Wi-Fi so as to access such a service. So, now offices, homes and college campuses can easily be converted so as to allow every mobile user to access voice over IP services. In case of mobiles, the mobile service providers have to collaborate with other VoIP carrier service providers. This would help avoid any controversies.

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - What Is It?

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - What Is It?

by Howard Nielson


This new type of telecommunication is simply the transmission of your voice over the internet using packet switching. Packet switching in plain English simply means that data (your voice in this case) is broken down into smaller parts, sent (using your internet connection), and then the data (your voice) gets reassembled on the other end (who you called). This transmission process only takes fractions of a second to complete. It is important to note that in order for VoIP to work correctly, you need to currently have a broadband connection like DSL or cable for the VoIP. It also requires a switch box that gets connected to your cable or DSL modem. It is this switch box that you plug in your cordless phone to. This process is so easy that I am sure that anybody or their young kids could do it.
The reason that VoIP is taken the telecommunications industry by storm is for one simple reason, it is very cost effective and the smart consumers have figured it out. Depending on your calling habits, you can really save on your long-distance charges. Let's think about this folks. If you use the VoIP service you really do not have any need for a regular landline phone anymore. That would probably save you at least $20 to $40 bucks a month, not including any long distance charges you may incur. If you make a lot of long distance calls on your landline phone, you are charged a monthly fee for the phone and additional fees for your long distance calls.

VoIP services simply charge one flat fee for the service regardless of the amount of long distance calls you make. However, keep in mind that this applies to calls placed within the United States and sometimes Canada and Mexico. You will be charged additional fees for most international calling. VoIP is also really advantageous to the person who travels much of the time. You can simply take your VoIP switchbox with you and make cheap calls from your hotel or motel room by simply plugging it into the broadband connection in your room. No more need for those expensive roaming charges from your cell phone or expensive calls from your room phone! VoIP switchbox plugged into broadband connection, telephone plugged into switchbox, make a telephone call and save. Could it be any easier?

Common issues people have had with VoIP are that they complain that it sounded choppy, there were delays in voice transmission, and the voices echoed. That's true of the first generation VoIP systems, but the new generation VoIP technology has eliminated those issues, but you must use a broadband connection not a dial-up. Another common concern is that you have to connect your VoIP switchbox up to a computer. Granted, if you are one of the few people in the industrialize world that does not own a computer, you are simply out of luck. If you own a computer and have a cordless phone, it is a great option. The cordless phones, especially the ones that have more than one headset that can be plugged into various locations throughout your home gives you all kinds of flexibility.

VoIP Reseller Programs: with maximum benefits

VoIP Reseller Programs: with maximum benefits

by Kristen Kiya


In this contemporary world, more and more companies are deploying the internet telephony solutions to reach new & greater heights in their respective areas of activity. These solutions provide a unified communications system that makes effective communication possible with the least possible expenditures. These solutions allow the users to enjoy long distance as well international calls at significantly lower rates. The motive of using these services is not restricted to the lowering of call expenses. As a matter of fact, a switch to these solutions also simplifies the process of business communication to a considerable extent. Furthermore, the spurt in the demand for IP telephony solutions has also led to an increase in the opportunities pertaining to Voice over IP. The emergence of specially designed VoIP reseller programs can be taken to further elucidate the point.
With a growth in the internet telephony services, the VoIP providers, wholesalers and resellers are now facing increasing opportunities to excel in this domain. The resellers are building up a valuable chain between the business houses on the one hand and the VoIP providers on the other. Providers are now offering innovative VoIP reseller programs. These programs are much in demand among institutional users that are using the same to make their foray into the competitive world of IP telephony. It can be said that the resellers are using these programs to deliver the Voice over IP solutions to a maximum number of end-users, across the world.

Depending upon the scale and requirements in specific instances, resellers can opt for either private label VoIP or they can go with white label programs. Both these VoIP related reseller programs are profitable and easy to use. The private label VoIP reseller programs allow the resellers to focus on their core competencies, as the VoIP providers offer infrastructure as well as hardware support.

Therefore, it can be said that in the private label program, the resellers can avail the maximum benefits with the minimum investment. The resellers can make the best use of their marketing skills in attracting an extensive client base. For authenticity in the billing process, resellers can make the most of the online billing panels. This way, they can monitor the accounts of their clients, accompanied with easy recharge options and many other benefits. The resellers can decide easily on the profit margins without any interference from the VoIP providers end.

On the other hand, in white label VoIP, the resellers are provided with the additional benefit of re-branding the services and products with their own brand names.

The VoIP resellers are in fact making the most of these programs to ensure that their services reach each and every end- user who has opted for it. To make their services accessible to wider customer base, the providers are designing and delivering some very special VoIP resellers programs. The resellers need to select the right VoIP service provider to ensure that the services conform to certain established quality standards.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Voice Over IP Phone

Voice Over IP Phone

by Nkeno Kapya


You have probably heard of VoIP but do you know what it is ? VoIP basically stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. So what is it then ?
With the advent of broadband internet it has become possible to use this new VoIP technology to make regular phone calls through that internet connection. You must have a broadband connection though. Dial-up just won't do it. It is too slow.

The benefits of making the switch to Voice Over Internet Protocol phone systems are mainly significant savings in call costs, and superior call quality. For example, you can expect free continental US calling (including to Canada in some instances). It isn't like with cellphone companies where you have to wait until the evening or weekends to make free calls. If you have ever used Skype to make calls you will better understand what it means to experience amazing calling quality. It is much clearer than a phone as we know it.

As with your regular telephone service you get the usual standard features such as:

Caller ID Call Waiting Call Forwading

With a VoIP connection you can expect very favorable monthly rates starting as low as $6.99. A lot of businesses are catching up with this technology due to its associated costs.

Most VoIP providers require three main things to get connected, and these are:

Telephone Broadband connection Home Router

The good thing about using this service is that the person you are calling need not be a VoIP subscriber too. You can call anybody that has a telephone, be it a landline or a cellphone.

Do you make frequent international calls ? Voice Over Internet Protocol technology would be perfect for you then. Maybe you have family and friends abroad and you want to speak with them ocassionally, as opposed to sending text messages ? VoIP providers have you covered. Some providers offer free calls to countries such as Australia, France, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK, just to name a few. You need to check with the provider for more details. Rates to other countries, such as India for example, can start as low as 2 cents a minute. That is way cheaper than using those calling cards if you ask me. At least you don't have to worry about connection fees.

Some VoIP providers do not even require you to be a resident of the United States in order to use their services. As long as you fulfill the requirements mentioned above, you are eligible to start using voice over internet protocol phone systems.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Get the most out of your VoIP provider

Get the most out of your VoIP provider

by Hamesh Brown


Features and pricing are the two prime considerations in selecting your VoIP provider and deriving the maximum benefit from the product. With most VoIP users, all the features available in a particular product will rarely if ever be used. All leading service providers promise a range of features that look impressive as a marketing strategy, but often do not deliver as practical options. "Features" do not always translate as "benefits." Pricing is also a relative factor and is linked to "quality" in the long run. Let us look closely at the packages offered by three market leaders of today: Skype, Lingo, and Vonage.
Skype has three basic usages: a PC-to-PC call, which is free voice communication between two computer users across the world with an Internet broadband connection; a paid SkypeOut voice call from a Skype user to a landline/mobile phone; and a paid SkypeIn call from a landline/mobile phone to a Skype user. For a home requirement of chatting with family and friends, the Skype PC-to-PC free call delivers on most promises made on the official Skype website, including voice quality. If you are not against being "wired" to your computer with your multimedia speakers and headphone, this free offer is the best option in this category.

However, if your requirement is for a full-scale voice service that caters to PC-to-telephone and telephone-to-PC services, you need to step up to the paid categories. SkypeOut offers a flat global rate of € 0.017 per minute for some of the most popular destinations worldwide, and has specific rates for other destinations. SkypeIn, which is still in Beta, makes it possible for your family, friends, and business acquaintances to reach you from a landline by dialing a number assigned to you. SkypeIn charges are independent of your location; if you are assigned a Chicago number but are currently in Japan, the party making the call only pays for a call to Chicago. If you buy a Skype number--an annual subscription will cost you € 30 and a quarterly subscription comes at € 10--you also get Free Skype Voicemail bundled in the package.

Skype's cost plans are uncomplicated, and making a choice is relatively simple. Compare this with Lingo's Home, Office, and International plans, and the corresponding plans from Vonage:

From this analysis, Lingo emerges as the service that will save you more on your telephone bill. However, to get more out of your VoIP, you need to look at the international pricing because that's where VoIP scores over a traditional connection. If you make frequent international calls to Asia, you can take advantage of Lingo's Asia package. Lingo's international rates to individual countries are also lower than those of Vonage, but higher than Skype. Here is a comparison of the rates for three destinations:

Skype has the lowest call rates, but is limited in features. At the other end of the spectrum is Vonage, which offers the most consistent call quality and delivers on features, but is heavier on your pocket. Although it loses out on voice quality, Lingo has the features to match Vonage.

There are a few other features mentioned by both Lingo and Vonage--such as Anonymous Call Rejection and Do Not Disturb in Lingo, and Click-2-Call and Call Hunt in Vonage--but these are more in the way of cosmetic embellishments than utility tools.

The features are many, the utility diverse. To get the most out of your VoIP provider, you need to place the key factors of pricing and features at both ends of a see-saw, and weigh them with the cornerstone of quality--that will position you enticingly in making the right choice and getting the maximum out of your service provider.

Eight important factors to consider when getting VOIP

Eight important factors to consider when getting VOIP

by John Leonardelli


VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is becoming the alternative to the high cost of local telephone service. The primary advantage is the savings on local and long-distance calls. There are also savings for all the extra features that are included in the basic VoIP service. Traditional telephone companies charge extra for things like call display, voice mail and call forwarding. Many VOIP providers offer these features at little or no cost.
With this new technology there are eight important factors to consider before you take the plunge and get a VOIP service.

1) You need a High Speed Internet Connection

In order to use VoIP, you need to have a high-speed Internet connection, such as DSL or cable. If you do not have this then your costs to have VOIP will be higher.

2) Power Outages

VoIP is dependant on commercial AC power from your local utility. Your standard telephone runs on phantom power that is provided over the line from the telephone central office. Even if your AC power goes out, your standard telephone still works. The VOIP gateway, ATA equipment and high-speed Internet modem requires AC power. During a power failure if you do not have a UPS or back up power system, you will not be able to make or receive telephone calls. This could be a problem if you need to call 911. These is why some people use Voice over IP for long distance calling only and keep their existing telephone number with their standard telephone service.

3) Emergency 911

The 911 systems do not know what you physical address is because of the SIP addressing scheme. With SIP there is no way to associate a geographic location with an IP address, so calling 911 in an emergency can be a serious problem. You could be in Vancouver using a Toronto number and the 911 dispatchers would not know that. Most VOIP service providers have a work around that has you call into their 911 center where they can find out where you are and then dispatch the local emergency services to you. This could cause a delay in getting emergency services to you quickly. The standard telephone service uses a North American Number Plan and the local service provider knows your address based on the number called that's in their database. Keep this in mind when deciding to cancel your standard telephone service. Ask your provider how they are handling 911 emergency calls; your life may depend on it.

4) You may still need your standard telephone line

Satellite TV subscription services and home security systems all use a standard phone line to communicate. There is currently no way to integrate these products with VoIP. Consider your requirements if you are planning to discontinue your local standard telephone service.

5) Local Telephone White Page Listings

VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance or local white page listings.

6) Reliability

Because VoIP uses a high-speed Internet connection, it is susceptible to all the problems normally associated with home broadband services. All of these factors will affect call quality: Latency, Jitter, noise, and Packet loss. Telephone conversations can become distorted, garbled or lost because of these transmission errors. It is important to have a High Quality connection from a reputable internet service provider.

7) Security

Like many Internet based programs, VoIP is susceptible to worms, viruses and hacking. Make sure you use anti-virus and firewall security software.

8) Extensions

The standard telephone service is analog. It uses 2 wires to transmit and receive the telephone call. You local telephone company may have already outfitted your residence with extension jacks throughout the house. With VOIP, the main connection point becomes where your High Speed Internet modem is located. You may not have cabling connections at that location to the rest of the house. The solution is to have an electrician assist you in cabling the extensions or using a cordless telephone.

Monday, March 17, 2008

How to choose a VoIP provider

How to choose a VoIP provider

by Hanu Nirukurti


VoIP (or voice over internet protocol) has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional long-distance phone calls. The reason? Cost. A VoIP provider can reduce your phone bills by as much as 80%, more than justifying the initial costs of buying the equipment and monthly or annual fees.
Choosing to go VoIP is easy; which VoIP provider you sign up with is trickier. With the number of companies and the diversity of packages to choose from, it's hard to tell if you're really getting your money's worth. Here are some things to consider as you narrow down your choices:

* How much are you willing to spend? Look at your budgets. How much can you allot for this service? How much do you really save by getting it? * How much of your phone calls are long distance? If you rarely make long distance phone calls then you won't really feel the "savings"; but if you have friends and family around the world, then VoIP is a lifesaver. Look at your previous phone bills and make a rough estimate. Compute the cost of those calls on a traditional phone provider and through VoIP. * How good is their customer service? Customer service is frequently the worst in companies that offer very low rates. They usually have a deluge of subscribers whose needs or quieries they may not be able to handle Check out how their after-salves customer service is by asking friends who use VoiP or VoiP sites that have message boards? * What features are included in the package? Some packages may appear that they are cheaper but It could be because they have a very skeletal list of services. Others have a higher fee but offer so many additional services. But crucial to this is asking yourself which services are most important to you. Do you want call waiting? Do you need 3 way calling? Do you want fax capabilities? By defining what your priorities are you can weigh the overall monthly subscription fees with the kind of value you get for your money. * Can you keep your old number? Some companies allow you to transfer your existing phone number to the VoIP service. This is a very helpful feature that saves you the trouble of informing others or, even more importantly, losng contact with those who were not told about the change. This can be too much of a risk to people who run homebased businesses. * Do they offer emergency services? Not all VoIP services allow emergency numbers like 911. In this case it's advisable that you retain a cell phone or land line. It pays to be safe than sorry! * How many international calls do you need to make? There is a wide variety of packages that appropriate a certain number of minutes for long distance calls. Find out your typical usage and assess how much you need.

VoIP and the Communications Industry

VoIP and the Communications Industry

by Bob Hett


Are you worried about the costly long distance phone rates? Do you want to find some ways on how to call your loved ones in a cheap way? Are you a student who finds it hard to make a call with your parents? Is your company paying too much for long distance call? Have you heard how VoIP contributes in communication business? The waiting is over, VoIP is the answer.
VoIP can eliminate all those expensive long distance rates. To further discuss, VoIP is the newest and most advanced audio communications technology.

VoIP stands for Voice over internet protocol. This latest communication innovation which has a variety of different applications and features in order to give a clear and affordable conversation all over the world.

How does VoIP work?

Many people are quite amazed on how VoIP works. Well, its features work on a revolutionary technology. It has a communication method that streamlines the sending analog audio signal. The signal is converted into a sound to be sent digitally over transmission lines through the internet.

According to the service providers of VoIP, by using this technology the user can have free "by minute charges". That is one of the great things about VoIP plans.

If the "by minute charges" is consumed, the user will have to pay the monthly fee and make all the calls they want over the computer.

The VoIP procedure is very simple but an elegant and simplistic way of communication. It can be the greatest solution for long distance call problems that everyone is waiting for.

The VoIP works on several ways, in communication, like circuit transmitting, data pocket exchanging and retrieval of information by using the computer.

This communication system can also send the information by finding the open channels that are available rather than out-and-out lines. The information transmitted simply assembled at the source location. Comparatively VoIP works more efficient.

In order to be aware of how VoIP works, it is first important to know the basic concept of traditional analog audio communication. The analog audio communication can be very helpful in terms of VoIP communication.

The basic analog phone calls are actually made on the fiber optic communication network. These networks can make a voice communication by collecting voices communications. The voices are delivered directly to the destination, while the signals are also converted to analog.

VoIP can assure a cheap or even free telephone call for the users. For some companies, it also means generating income. This is good news for the companies who want to cut some of their expenses. Most of the companies spend thousands of dollars per year just because of long distance calls alone.

Now, if the company would like to have far-reaching consultation call, VoIP can make more sense when it comes to that issue. It can also combine conference options like sharing of documents and multiple conversations.

According to some statistics, most of the companies that patronize VoIP has earned 80 percent of its revenues compared to other telecommunication that only gives 55 percent.

The great shift of VoIP is starting to hit top rating national telecommunication industry and international mobile corporations.

As a conclusion, VoIP is indeed a very interesting breakthrough when it comes to communications. It is the most well-organized, accurate, efficient, and much less expensive way of talking to the people you need to communicate to. Why not try VoIP? It can be the answer to all of those communication hindrances.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Choosing SIP VOIP

Choosing SIP VOIP

by Van Theodorou


Choosing SIP VOIP
Are you searching high and low trying to figure out which SIP VOIP service provider is for you? It can be a difficult decision for anyone, particularly since there are several providers available on the market today. They all tell you that their service is the best and the cheapest, but how can you really know? There are a few different things that you should be looking at and considering before you decide on any one provider.

These things include: * Features
* Customer Service
* Price
* Customer Satisfaction

These are all important aspects of any service provider and SIP VOIP is no different. The one thing you want to do is look at the different service providers and determine which features are most important for you.

For instance, perhaps a feature such as Caller ID Name, in which the name shows up with the telephone number on the caller ID is important to you. Some VOIP companies offer this as a standard feature and some do not.

Perhaps a hardware type of SIP VOIP is for you, then you would want to choose a provider that is based on hardware instead of software. Most companies offer the following as part of their standard package:

* Standard Caller ID
* Call Waiting
* Three-Way Calling
* Call Forwarding
* Voicemail
* Email Voicemail
* Free Subscriber Phone Calls

If you want additional features, you may either have to pay more or find a provider that offers them, as not all providers offer all features. Some VOIP providers offer call transfers, in the event of power failure they will forward calls, busy call forwarding, no answer call forwarding, call blocking from anonymous callers, automatic redial, call return, and so much more.

You might even be able to block you own outgoing calls, block telemarketers, get a customized caller ID contact list, enjoy distinctive rings, or even use a do not disturb feature.

Finding the right VOIP provider means looking for the price and features that are most important to you. Some providers offer the ability to fax and accept faxes right over the telephone, as well as offer 800 telephone numbers.

When looking at price, be sure to look at the number of minutes included. Some providers will offer a by the minute rate, an unlimited local calling rate, or even a package that allows you to call any number within a certain area or country without any extra charges.

VoIP Carriers: gaining importance in the market

VoIP Carriers: gaining importance in the market

by Kristen Kiya


The Voice over IP is an emerging technology that uses internet rather than PSTN lines and links to enable communication between telephones or mobile phones. Unlike coaxial wires in the pre-existing telephony systems, VoIP uses fiber optics to empower the communication with others at relatively lower rates. However, quite a few entities other than business users are availing the benefits of IP telephony services. To take a case in point, the residential users are also promoting IP telephony solutions to curb their monthly telephony expenditures. And the driving force that is making all these possible would definitely be the VoIP carriers.
The carriers are offering high-end services to different categories of users. A simple process is being followed wherein voice is first digitalized and then transferred over the internet. With a broadband internet connection, the carriers are able to deliver excellent voice quality and cut down on the calling costs for their clients. Over time, the providers of carrier services develop their own network of gateways and switches. Moreover, these service providers offer a number of support functions such as facilitating hardware, and monitoring of call volume & call quality.

One can say that the channels through which Voip services reach the end users are better known as "carriers." The providers of wholesale carrier services together with resellers procure minutes from the Tier 1 providers and then sell them off to the end users. This transaction in wholesale carrier services is considered a valuable business proposition for entities that have a large customer base and efficient marketing team. The VoIP carriers provide number of services to their users depending upon the specific needs and requirements.

The VoIP market is flooded with a plethora of VoIP carriers, so it is necessary to identify the best of the lot based on the following factors:

1. Quality of Service: The users must concentrate on quality of services in terms of Average Success Ratio (ASR), Average call duration (ACD) and Post Dial Delay (PDD). Therefore, the end users must look for a VoIP carrier service provider that offers switches with a number of "points of presence" and supporting routes. This is expected to ensure good quality service with minimum latency. In addition, there should also be the provision of back up routes.
2. Customer Support Service: The users must ensure that the providers are offering competent 24/7 customer support for uninterrupted services.
3. Service and reliability: The user must gather the information about service providers from various sources. Apart from that, users must opt for a carrier provider that offers a money back guarantee, in case of dissatisfaction with the service.
4. Rates: While selecting a provider of VoIP carrier services, one must compare the call charges without compromising on the quality of services (QoS). As a matter of fact, users must opt for the provider that offers minimum tariff with various value-added services.

To conclude, it can be said that to keep a pace with a tough competition, the providers of VoIP carrier services must offer innovative features such as 3-way calling, caller ID, call forwarding, audio as well as video conferencing, call waiting and many more.

Friday, March 14, 2008

Real Estate Macro-Marketing with Microsites

Real Estate Macro-Marketing with Microsites

by Gary Ashton


You don't need a big website in order to make a big impression online. Smaller, more focused websites, called microsites, are now the tools of choice for many companies in search of a new marketing angle, and they're working quite well. That's great news for real estate agents looking to improve their online presence without starting from scratch. It's also good for target audiences tired of combing through huge sites in order to find the information they want. Real estate agents who understand the basics of microsite development can make huge marketing progress on their own, or with the help of a web development company.
The best microsites typically support new products by well-established companies. Whether that product is a new car or a romantic comedy movie, the microsite format seems to attract more attention on its own than as a part of a large corporate website. One of the reasons for this is that microsites exist on their own URL and are easily branded separately. Movies also typically make great URLs, so the marketing angle comes naturally there.

While largely untested in real estate, the microsite concept could have many applications. Home sellers looking for an edge in the market could consider registering a unique domain to promote their listing, such as Street_Address.com, and real estate agents looking for new clients could register a domain promoting a new service, such as Buyers_Service.com. Many real estate agents with well-established sites face the challenge of keeping their site current with the latest popular keywords, and microsites could be the way to address that very challenge.

Because microsites only need to attract traffic for one or two keywords, and often receive most of their exposure through linking or advertisements, their forms are a little less strictly defined. Microsites can feature more pictures and graphics than a typical website, and generally don't need any kind of rigid site architecture in order to perform well.

Microsites are often conceived the same way as blogs: to keep track of a single topic in an uncomplicated format. Indeed, many microsites turn out to be blogs with a fancy landing page attached, or a little more branding. This is fine - in fact promising - for real estate agents, home sellers, and buyers. Imagine a unique brand for every home on the MLS - that's the promise of a microsite.

Bryan Ellis on Real Estate Investing - 7 Dangerous Factors For Every Subject-To Purchase Agreement

Bryan Ellis on Real Estate Investing - 7 Dangerous Factors For Every Subject-To Purchase Agreement

by Bryan Ellis


In the world of creative real estate investing, few strategies are as powerful or desirable to a real estate investor as Subject-To transactions, in which the real estate investor acquires legal title to a property in exchange for taking over payments on the existing mortgage. Using this strategy, a real estate investor is literally unlimited in terms of the amount of property they can acquire without ever using their own credit.
But while subject-to transactions are 100% legal in most of the United States, there are some legal pitfalls that face novice real estate investors. My own experience as a real estate investor suggest there are 7 key legal issues that must be addressed to keep your subject-to real estate investing activities on legally solid ground:

1. Misrepresentation of Mortgage Terms & Other Liens. Reserve the right to terminate the agreement in the event that the owner fails to disclose all encumbrances against the property along with the terms of those encumbrances. (Remember, all liens become your problem after you accept title to the property.)

2. Misrepresentation of Mortgage Balance. Property owners frequently misrepresent their mortgage balances, albeit usually unintentionally. Since the balance of those mortgages will become your responsibility after closing, reserve the right to adjust the agreement in your favor if the mortgage balances provided to you are inaccurate.

3. Stipulate "Non-Assumption" of the Debt. A subject-to purchase agreement must be clear that the buyer is not assuming the debt of the seller. Assumption entails acceptance of liability to the lender, which is not acceptable for a subject-to transaction. Rather, the real estate investor's liability should be exclusively to the property seller in the form of the purchase and sale agreement, rather than to the lender in the form of a mortgage.

4. Due-On-Sale Disclosure. It's absolutely critical to inform the seller that his mortgage is probably subject to a "due-on-sale" clause which gives his lender the right to foreclose the property merely by taking part in this type of transaction. While the lender is unlikely to ever know or care about the transaction, the wise real estate investor will nevertheless give full disclosure about this issue.

5. Specifically Address The Pay-Off Date. Include language that indicates when you will satisfy (pay off) the existing mortgage(s) and lien(s) against the property. If you have no intention of limiting your time to satisfy the mortgages and liens, include precise language to that effect so that no confusion exists at a later time.

6. Date of First Payment. Stipulate the date of the first payment that the buyer is required to make, so that the seller will be clear that they are required to continue making payments on the property until that time.

7. Attorney Review. Ask your attorney to review your contract with each separate transaction, as subject-to transactions have received some negative publicity which has led to changing laws in a few states. Further, require in writing that the seller have the contract reviewed by their own attorney to avoid any future charge that the seller was misled or pressured into the agreement.

Subject-To transactions are undeniably one of the most powerful ways to quickly and easily increase the size of your real estate portfolio without using your own credit. So use these tips to make sure that you're not only acquiring a lot of great properties, but you're doing so in a legally safe manner.

VoIP Services | IP Telephony | Inclarity

VoIP Services IP Telephony Inclarity

by Chrsitine Da Silva


VoIP Services and IP telephony Save Costs, Time and Effort
The emergence of smaller business enterprises has come suddenly and successfully as many entrepreneurs tackle the ever more cut throat industries they compete within. However, many small businesses find the simple accessories which big corporations benefit from difficult to come by or hugely expensive to run. It would seem that in the telecommunications accessories of today to subscribe to the best services a business needs to be a multinational corporation with a lot of capital to cover the cost and its own technical department to run the system. Small business enterprises are thus suffering as the only availability to them seems to be a telephone and a very simple switchboard instead of advanced communication solutions. There has become a solution available however which can suit the largest corporation to a two man small business. With hosted VoIP (voice over internet protocol) costs are cut and time is saved. VoIP works on a system of routing voice conversations over the internet using IP based networks.

Inclarity is a UK based company who manage VoIP services to provide users with an advanced telephony system at competitive prices. The telephone system is incredibly easy to subscribe to: simply go the user friendly and simple site to sign up for Inclarity hosted VoIP services. Simply log onto the site, click on the VoIP in a box option and complete the five steps to get advanced telephony and superior services.

Once signed up to Inclarity VoIP services customers have been known to forget they are using an IP phone! The features of VoIP are endless and extremely cost effective. Traditional PBX functionality is offered, as well as the ability to add lines when you please, as the system is fully scalable. Future updates are available without expensive upgrades due to built in future proofing. The Hosted VoIP solution from Inclarity is unique as it uses traditional and new innovative technology to make clients IP telephony experiences a better one. The system allows for multiple connections between branches and free calls between users and the online tools help to avoid time consuming training. The voicemail service can be accessed from any phone or internet connection, viewed in email format or you can listen to them. Customers can control when, where and from who they are able to receive calls and faxes are sent to your inbox immediately as digital files. The system is managed through the internet and enables a business administrator to access and control user features and functions. There is a phone manager tool operated through the internet enabling every user access to configurations, features and functions. Multiple calls can be managed through an operator console allowing receptionists to manage calls through one interface. Other helpful functions include call forwarding, music and message on hold, call barring, 3-way conferencing and function keys on handsets which are programmable to include online call details, an auto attendant and many more. Inclarity also offers a 24 hour a day, 365 days a year support service for any technical problems or other queries customers may have and maintenance of Inclarity services are free.

Inclarity offers seamless business solutions for clients who do not want to waste their time on complicated and overpriced telephony systems. Time is money and with IP Telephony, you save time and money. The prices of Inclarity services are highly competitive yet do not compromise on service excellence. This makes Inclarity the ideal suppliers of VoIP services to every business and also allows small business enterprises the same advanced features as large corporations without the enormous price tag.

VoIP Phone: a means to start a small business

VoIP Phone: a means to start a small business

by Kristen Kiya


The need for making long distant calls at cheaper rates led to the introduction of VoIP. This secondary means of connecting people proved very fruitful. Using this technology, people were able to make calls at very reasonable rates, while simultaneously viewing the person at the other end on a web cam. Over the years, this technology has proved itself in more ways than one. It is easy to use, reliable and the cost involved is comparatively less than traditional telephony systems.
Many a times, all that is required for getting connected using VoIP is an adapter. The process is simple. Voice sounds get transmitted using data grams on the IP network. When this is done, telephony gains the same characteristics of a data network connection. So, these data grams can be used by different software to perform tasks such as conference calling. Equipment such as routers support the proper functioning of the system. So, Voice over IP performs better when the switches, routers and network links are faster. Ethernet is usually the means of connecting networks that are Voice Over applications. The servers therefore fulfill many telephony roles such as call switching and connection management, call recording and auto-attendant function besides call conferencing. This thus gives the traditional phones access to VoIP. It also facilitates making calls to end points with varying audio capabilities.

The VoIP phone calls can connect a server that can be used for call management. The Voice over IP server can be connected to a PSTN without any hassles. Once connected, it becomes very feasible for making calls at reasonable price rates. As long as a WAN connectivity exists, a VoIP server can act as a PSTN gateway for IP phones. So, now you need not worry at all if you have made up your mind to start a small business. The DSL or cable network should work nicely to meet the needs of one to two people. So, it is possible for you to run an office from your home itself. If the number of employees is more than two, then you should opt for a different Internet telephony service. What you should always check is the bandwidth of the connection that you are opting for. So, with greater bandwidth the number of users who can access the IP telephony also increases. Supposing if you have a small PBX system or any other business telephone system, then simply purchase a media gateway. This will directly connect you to the internet without replacing any of your phone parts.

So, the internet telephony service has turned this world to a high tech place. Hassle free communication at cost effective rates has increased productivity in business. At a personal level also, cheap telephone calls have become the norm in different parts of the world. To avail the best of the VoIP service, one needs to have the best hardware device supported by software. The factors that become indispensable in this context include an Analogue Terminal Adaptor (ATA), a high speed broadband connection, and an IP phone service.

Telephone Options: Cell Phones, VoIP, And Standard Phone Lines

Telephone Options: Cell Phones, VoIP, And Standard Phone Lines

by Gabriel Adams


Ah, the almighty telephone--if only Alexander Graham Bell were here to see what has become of his wonderful invention! If it wasn't amazing enough to be able to communicate by phone in the first place, now we're doing so wirelessly from practically everywhere.
Take a quick moment and realize how cool that is! It's actually really amazing when you think about it! A decade or two ago, no one would have believed that every man, woman and child would have their own portable phone, but now they do!

But it doesn't end there; now cell phones are taking over to the point where many people are canceling their standard phone service! And others, yet, are turning to their internet connections for phone service as an alternative!

Just like every technology that is on the fast rise and changing so quickly, the era of modern telephone tech is starting to confuse the masses. Let's demystify your options quickly.

We'll look at each type of phone you can have, which ones are good, and which to ditch!

Standard Phone Lines

Standard phone lines used to be the only kind you could have. Another term used to describe a standard phone line is "a land line."

Standard Phone Advantages:

* Call Quality is Most Consistent Compared to other Phone Line Types * Easiest To Use to Make Basic Calls * No Complications or Added Features to Get in the Way * Free Nationwide Long Distance is Often Offered * Works during Power Outages * No Need To Recharge Phone Batteries, if Cord Phone is used * Harder to Lose Than Cell Phones * Always Works Indoors * Has Been Around Longest Thus Most Developed Technology * Easy to Find Service and Phones Anywhere * Useful in Home-Based Emergencies (less worries about dead batteries) * Fewer Dropped Calls than Cell Phones and VoIP * Better Customer Service than Cell Phone Providers

Standard Phone Disadvantages:

* Can't Use Outside Home (except perhaps in yard) * No Extra Features Like Text Messaging, Internet Access, Games, etc. * Can Be an Extra Unneeded Cost When Also Using Cell Phone * More Likely To Receive Telemarketing Calls in the Middle of Dinner * Do Not Usually Have Built-In Address Book * Not Generally Blu-Tooth Compatible

Cell Phones

Cell phones are quickly becoming as popular, if not more, than standard phone lines. Many people have struggled with whether they should still keep a standard phone line or not if they have a cell. There are valid arguments for and against this mindset. To decide, have a look at the advantages and disadvantages of cell phones.

Advantages of Cell Phones:

* Portable, Work Almost Anywhere * Have Extra Features like Text Messaging, Internet Access, Games, etc. * Have Built-In Address Book Standard * Blu-tooth Compatible Standard * Helpful in Emergencies outside the Home * Keep in Touch with People When Not Home * Better Call Quality than VoIP * Have Been Around Longer than VoIP

Disadvantages of Cell Phones:

* Don't Always Work Indoors * Quality Not Consistent * Dropped Calls * More likely to be Lost or Stolen * Fraudulent Charges on Bill More Likely * Lower Quality Customer Service than Land Lines * Have Not Been Around as Long as Land Lines = Less Developed Technology

VoIP Phone Lines

VoIP (voice over internet protocol) are internet-based phone lines. They are the newest, weakest and least popular technology in the current telephone industry. The future is bright, however, especially as internet speeds and reliability increase, and the advent of "internet everywhere" draws near.

Advantages of VoIP Phone Lines

* Often Less Expensive than other Phone Lines * Free International Communication is offered * Useable anywhere there is Internet Access * Work Better At Home than Some Cell Phones

Disadvantages of VoIP:

* Lower Call Quality Reported * Dropped Calls Most Common Among All Telephone Types * You Must Share Your Internet Bandwidth with the Phone * New and Under-developed technology (Arguably in a Beta Stage)

It is recommended not to use VoIP as an alternative to any other type of phone at this time. VoIP is probably "the future," as mentioned previously, but is not ready to be your primary phone line just yet. International callers and certain business people will find them useful, but they are not recommended for the masses as of now.

You should not consider getting phone service through your cable or internet service provider as an alternative to cell phones or land lines. VoIP, as a supplemental phone line is fine, however.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

VoIP Solutions: for improvement in business productivity

VoIP Solutions: for improvement in business productivity

by Kristen Kiya


The business houses that are cost conscious have employed the best-of-breed IP telephony services as well as products to avail the benefits that they represent. With a dependence on the internet, voice over IP services have been successful in delivering phone calls, text chat, video streams as well as images to the users on a global scale in a cost efficient manner. As a matter of fact, the VoIP solutions have gained a strategic advantage in todayĂ¢€™s contemporary market by simplifying, augmenting and unifying the different spheres of communication. In these solutions, video and audio signals can be captured, compressed and streamed over a high speed IP network. The users are able to enjoy seamless communication as these solutions are based on the packet switching technique. Routing of calls or videos over Internet connections using the packet switching technique makes the IP solutions distinct from the traditional PSTN services.

Unlike expensive PSTN systems, the VoIP solutions deliver high quality voice services and reduce calling costs quite significantly. The internet telephony solutions assist the business houses to be more innovative, flexible, competent and productive; they help the business houses to successfully take on their competitors.

With a dependence on VoIP solutions, making long distance calls is no longer a reason for concern or worry, as the monthly telephone expenditures are kept within limits. As a matter of fact, it is possible to save up to 40-60 percent with these solutions, more so when compared to the pre-existing PSTN services. Moreover, depending upon the usage and requirement, a VoIP solution provider would offer desirable business solutions to users.

Given all these reasons, the VoIP business solutions have gained in importance in various industries such as finance, telecommunication, insurance, travel and media. With various benefits and the latest applications, IP telephony solutions have almost achieved a complete market penetration, leaving their mark on both institutional as well as individual users.

The business solutions of VoIP are beneficial, as they allow business users to access more than one call at a particular time and users can avail the benefits of sending images, videos and voice through the same IP network. Apart from that, VoIP business solutions enable the users to access long distance calls at significantly cheaper rates. The wide array of benefits does not end here, as these solutions are backed with other features such as scalability, reliability and flexibility. These features ensure security in communication with others.

Before opting for IP solutions, business houses must carry extensive research for the best offers provided by VoIP providers. The market is replete with service providers. To attract users, providers have come up with value-added services such as call waiting, call forwarding, 3-way calling and call conferencing.

To conclude, VoIP solutions play a vital role in the improvement of the business productivity without compromising on the voice quality.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

New Companies in support of VoIP Service

New Companies in support of VoIP Service

by Kristen Kiya


The emergence of VoIP has revolutionized communication in today's fast track life. This service is now viewed as a wonder mechanism by which making calls to distant places at cheap rates has become a reality. Voice over IP is being canonized as the ultimate technology for providing cheap calling services to people world-wide.

The suppliers of VoIP services have come up in innumerable numbers. The scenario is such that now it is difficult to compare between PC to Phone and Broadband phone service providers. Each of these service providers is claiming their services to be the best. They are offering cheap price rates for their connections and setting exclusive rates for long distance or international calls.

Quite a few VoIP service providers have made a distinct position of excellence for themselves in the market. These companies have established their market dominance within a short period through press releases and extensive marketing budgets. The market conditions are volatile and there is room for all providers delivering high-end services at industry leading costs. Small and new providers of business VoIP service have come up that are offering attractive deals at cheap rates and as part of astonishingly low monthly packages. And the best part is that the VoIP services that are being offered conform to the established standards in quality.

Within a span of two years, a new revolution is being seen in this business. A new group of VoIP service providers have emerged that are offering free calls to a number of destinations and so are gaining a large market share. The point is that competition is intense and consequently the price rates for such services have declined quite drastically. Many new entities, wanting to curve their own niche in the world market, are catering to the evolving needs of the modern-day users in the best ways possible. The providers of VoIP services are delivering their services with special emphasis on cost efficiency and issues pertaining to quality of service. Companies are doing all that it takes to attract and retain a fleeting base of customers.

A potential user can visit e-tailers offering business VoIP services and compare and choose for the cheapest package. He can then rank the service providers based on the international call rates that they offer or their monthly packages. On comparing, he can find out the cheapest and the best service provider to a country or destination. Listening to daily news from the industry would also keep one updated on the new trends in this sector.

So, people wanting to make the most of a VoIP phone service need to find out the best service provider and sign up with it. Once registered, they can make distant calls to faraway places at low international rates.

VoIP wholesale: Reap more profits

VoIP wholesale: Reap more profits

by Kristen Kiya


In this contemporary world, Voice over IP features best among the fastest growing business sectors. Making a foray into VoIP wholesale has become one of the most profitable opportunities among the many that are increasingly making their presence felt.

This domain is increasingly becoming a lucrative proposition for many businesses and corporate entities. The cable network operators can be taken as a case in point. Quite a few operators in different parts of the world have opted for VoIP wholesale services to add alternative revenue benefits to their pre-existing businesses.

One cannot deny the fact that a VoIP wholesaler plays a vital role in building a strong communication chain. Buying and reselling of VoIP wholesale carrier services is considered to be very lucrative. However, for venturing into this platform, wholesalers or business entities are required to make substantial investment in infrastructural set-up and purchase of hardware equipment. A wholesaler would require hardware equipment such as voip servers, switches, and gateways among other things before it can get started in offering wholesale carrier services. When one compares the activities of wholesalers with resellers, one finds a higher capital investment in case of the wholesalers. However, their profit margins are also greater than the resellers, a fact that would somewhat justify the initial expenditure involved and put it in context.

For delivering wholesale services of VoIP, business entities need to conform to certain conditions. First and foremost, a business entity wanting to be a wholesaler must have adequate knowledge about the underlying technology. This would ensure a smooth running of the business operations.

Secondly, the success of any endeavor pertaining to VoIP wholesale services would also depend upon the client base of the facilitating organisations. A vast client base would ensure smooth inflow of profits for the wholesalers.

The wholesale carrier services come with advanced VoIP switches and routes that can facilitate the process of call termination at the resellers' end. As a matter of fact, there are number of VoIP providers that offer the wholesale solutions, so selecting the best among them should be the sole concern for resellers. One can steer clear of second category services by opting for a provider with multiple points of presence and switches.

The wholesalers play a key role in the entire process. They act as VoIP service providers for the resellers and Tier 2 providers and offer their services at wholesale rates. The wholesalers ensure that the resellers are making the most of the IP telephony services that are on offer. To deliver these services in the competitive market, the VoIP wholesalers concentrate on essential factors such as provision of alternative numbers, online real time billing and access to customer services round the clock as well as price for installation.

To conclude, it can be said that VoIP wholesale services offer unparalleled profit opportunities to businesses with a vision. With necessary investment and a thorough knowledge of the technical aspects, the wholesalers can maintain their edge over competition and accrue significant profits while they are doing so.

Monday, March 10, 2008

Which Phone TV Internet Package Is Right For You?

Which Phone TV Internet Package Is Right For You?

by Daymon Hoag


Bundled phone, TV, and Internet service can be a little confusing since we're dealing with several types of service. It will help you to know that only the cable, and phone companies offer bundled plans with all three products. A phone company will typically offer landline, voip, wireless or even fios phone service with satellite TV and DSL for Internet. A cable company will most likely offer cable TV, digital phone, and cable Internet. Both DSL and Cable Internet are high speed or broadband, just different technologies.

Understanding this, you now know you have two options for a bundled plan, but both options provide all three types of service, and the only real difference is the technology used to deliver those services. Location can play a big part in determining whether to go through a cable or phone company for your bundle. If you live in the city, or well populated area, a cable bundle should be readily available. If you live in a more rural area, you may have to go with a bundle through your phone company.

If you want wireless phone service as part of your package, you'll need to go to a phone company, because cable companies do not offer wireless or cellular phone service. In the event you already have cellular service and are under contract from a company that does not service your area for landline, you may have to either break your contract to get the bundle offered by them who supplies landline in your area, or just keep your cellular plan and go for the cable bundle instead.

If you're fortunate enough to have the option of bundling through both a phone, or cable company, you'll just need to decide who offers the best plan for you financially, and which type of technology you prefer to deliver your services such as satellite TV and DSL with a phone company, or cable TV and cable Internet with a cable company. They are not interchangeable services. You cannot get cable Internet or cable TV through your phone company, and you cannot get satellite TV or DSL through your cable company. Understanding these differences will simplify the process of getting the right bundle.

Don't forget that a bundle consists of two or more products from one supplier. Though they may offer anywhere from three to four products, you don't have to get them all. If you would like to optimize your elective utilities, you can get just enough on your bundled service to qualify for a discount, then get other service that may be cheaper elsewhere. A good example would be to get your cable TV, and Internet as a bundle from your cable company. Many times this is just enough to get a discount. Then you might consider purchasing a voip phone service plan which is the cheapest as far as home phone service goes.

This might give you the cheapest phone, TV, and Internet service, but you would still be paying two separate bills. At this point it becomes a matter of convenience. If you're frugal you might endure a slight inconvenience to have a smaller bill. If on the other hand you don't want to be bothered with multiple bills, you could very well get a price you can live with for all service combined whether it be from your phone, or cable company.

Saturday, March 8, 2008

Web Phone Conferencing

Web Phone Conferencing

by Jean Simmer


These past few years, we have seen the emergence of a new technology called Voice Over Internet Protocol or VOIP. This marvelous development allows people to transmit their voices through the internet, transforming their headsets and computers into telephones. You might think that this is redundant, considering that most internet connections today use something akin to a phone line. However, you haven't heard about the benefits of web phone conferencing yet.

People today make use of different web phone meeting services in order to make sure that they are able to communicate properly and effectively without having to pay the costs of a long-distance telephone call. As you may probably know, the biggest problem that people have with using a phone to hold a teleconference is that the costs tend to vary with distance. With the development of VOIP, however, you only need to pay a fraction of the price for the connectivity.

There is one problem with this technology, however, and it lies on the fact that we are talking about a relatively new development here. People who are expecting to find the same type of quality and clarity in using online phone conferencing may end up disappointed. This is because there are still some bugs that need to be worked out in order to allow people to have the same experience as using a phone.

There are, however, some factors that make people favor internet phone meetings using VOIP over conventional teleconferences. These factors, added to the savings, make web phone conferences quite irresistible to customers. Let's take for example that this technology allows people to use the connection for other types of communications while they are on the phone.

On a normal teleconference, people can hardly multi-task. The limited technology only allows them so much leg room in order to do their jobs. With the internet teleconference, people are able to do various things such as document editing, slide show presentations and even sending video messages. This is because the entirety of the resources of the internet is not used to project voice alone. This means that you can save a lot of time and effort using internet phone meeting technology.

There is, however, another limitation to be considered. You have to remember that there are a lot of people who depend on eye contact in order to transmit their message and give it emphasis. When you go with internet phone conferencing, it can only give you an illusion of having eye contact. Why is this? Well, with online phone conferences, people are given the idea that they will be able to communicate using web cams.

Although the usage of cameras can be a very significant improvement over merely depending on speech for communication, a lot of people are turned off because the experience is not quite what they expected. When they make use of video and web phone conferencing, they might expect an experience that's very much like talking in person and therefore, lack the necessary preparations to help them emphasize messages without use of their eyes.

When you make use of internet phone meeting services, you might end up not being able to prepare properly for a meeting simply because you have been convinced by different science fiction movies to expect too much from such. If you, however, wish to make your conversations more meaningful, then it would be better if you looked into the screen when listening and look into the camera when you are talking. This may seem inconvenient but it's also very effective.

VOIP is seen as quite advantageous by people in the sense that this piece of technology allows them to coordinate meetings better. With your conventional teleconference session, people have to identify themselves by voice and had to take turns talking in order to be clearly understood. However, with the emergence of phone web conferencing, people can now talk quickly and have their opinions noted without identifying themselves by name. This saves a lot of time. Of course, it still helps if people took turns speaking.

Phone web conferencing is quickly becoming a staple part of business today. It follows in the footsteps of other accessories which proved their worth to be necessities. This makes one wonder what people will think of next.

VoIP: A means to organizational productivity

VoIP: A means to organizational productivity

by Kristen Kiya


VoIP is an advanced telecommunication network. Transmitting voice over internet came as an urgent need. So, Voice over IP since then took a commercial turn. This Internet protocol is actually a network that transmits voice to distant places at the same price rate. Voice IP to VoIP phone calls is free, while Voice IP to public switched telephone may bear a cost price. There are two types of PSTN to these services. These are Direct Inward Dialing (DID) and access numbers. DID connects the caller directly to the VoIP while the access numbers requires the caller to input the extension number.

Its utility is numerous. It has a number of functionalities. In-fact these functionalities can be easily en-numerated as follows:

1. The Voice Telephone Calls can be transmitted to the same broadband telephone line.
2. This system has options like 3-way calling, automatic redialing and call forwarding. 3. Digitising and Digital transmission under standardized protocols.
4. It has location independence as only one internet connection is required to avail this connection.
5. It integrates with other internet based services like messaging, video conversation or data file exchange.

The next generation of this communication system is deployed by the v2tel Ă¢€" the leading provider of VoIP application. This move from its tradition will allow v2tel to offer feature rich communication packages to its customers. However, the process of connection remains the same i.e an adaptor connects the existing high speed internet connection. The broadband connection is through high speed devices such as DSL, cable modem or local area network. A microphone can be used to transfer voice directly to a telephone adaptor.

With such innovations in technology, VoIP has become a pioneer for providing cost efficiency while simultaneously providing a cutting-edge voice quality. It is now ruling the business world as it is a cheap means of communication. The organisational productivity also increases with its adoption. Now, local calls, long distance calls or international call can be attended at cheaper rates without compromising on the voice quality.

There are also other techniques like that of Ă¢€˜packet switchingĂ¢€™ that enables the user to have fast and excellent voice quality. This happens as the technology digitilises voice signals into compressed IP packets. The noise gets absorbed in these digital packets and renders uninterrupted communication between the sender and the receiver. The providers offer two types of hosted VoIP solutions. These are named as call termination and IP Centrex Services.

So, before opting for any service provider, one must search for the best offers that are provided by VoIP providers. In order to access the cheapest VoIP solution, one should not forget to compare the offers from several service providers. So, competition in this sector is always high and that has motivated service providers to come up with value-added services. To attract customers some service providers also offer services like call forwarding, call waiting, 3-way calling and call conferencing. These services can be availed from UK voice over ip and also from other branded voice over ip.

The 3 Skype phone - VoIP, Skype-style, in a mobile phone

The 3 Skype phone - VoIP, Skype-style, in a mobile phone!

by Mark Bonnett


Join me as I take a look at the stunning, clever, funky 3 Skypephone!

In a world where new ways of communicating are becoming ever more commonplace, it always had a bit of inevitability about it that VoIP (Voice over IP, internet calls to you and me), would take off. And it did, big time, with the monumental success of Skype. But it never realy took hold in the world of mobile phones, until recently, and the reason it did take hold was, once again, Skype. You see, they changed the rules of the game, with the fabulous 3 Skypephone.

There have been a few phones in the past that were "phones that have VoIP capability" or "phones that Skype in thi", but this is the first true, proper Skype Phone, the first phone whose entire reason for existence, its entire purpose, is built around Skype (let's face it, the name should've given that away!) You can, of course, use the 3 Skype phone as a normal style mobile phone, as it has a built-in 2 megapixel camera, music player, even Facebook access, but... well, that's kind of missing the point. because while you can stick to doing that, and treat it like a normal moble phone, you're denying the phone its reason for living.

Skype - it's fantastic!

When you press the button in the middle of the 3 Skype phone, it takes you straight into the Skype messenger service. Here you can set up a new account, but the coolest thing in that regard, is that you can log in using your own existing details! That takes you straight into the service and once it's run a quick check to make sure your Skype phone is actually working, you'll be making VoIP calls before you even know it! So, would I buy one? Well, no, because I don't use Skype, nor do I actually have any friends (or ones who use Skype, at any rate, although some would say I just don't have any friends), but if I did... well, I'd be all over it like a shot!

Small Business Telephone System with VoIP

Small Business Telephone System with VoIP

by Andrew Stratton


Moving your small business telephone system over to VoIP requires some pre-planning and consultation with an Internet provider. However, by insuring that you have the proper bandwidth, switches, and media gateway, your move to VoIP can be done quickly.

If you are changing your small business telephone system from a traditional dedicated fixed landline to the newer VoIP technology, there are some things you need to have in place to change successfully.

1. Internet Connection

To route your calls over the Internet instead of over the existing telephone fixed landlines, you need to have a powerful Internet connection and equipment to connect and communicate with.

If your small business is using a DSL or cable modem for your Internet connectivity, you need to research the bandwidth needed for of VoIP communications (Voice over Internet Protocol).

If you are one of 1-2 employees, then DSL or cable should work fine to meet your needs. DSL and cable modems are not ideal for VoIP, but they do work acceptably well for a very small office of just one or two people.

If your office grows to more than 2 users, your small business telephone system needs to grow also. It is time to consider a more robust Internet connection.

The standard DSL and cable modems offer you a quicker download than upload speed. This generally works fine for general computer usage, but it won't work so well for voice communication.

So, you will need to make sure that your Internet connection can support both the upload and download speeds that you need to have clear and consistent voice communication.

2. How Much Bandwidth?

The industry standard is enough bandwidth for about 1/3 rd of your employees to be on the telephone at the same time ... so if you have 30 lines, you should then have enough bandwidth for 10 to be used at any one time. With a business of this size, your small business telephone system will usually require a T1 connection to the Internet.

One of the best things you can do is to work with a provider who can support both your VoIP and Internet connection needs. This will insure that you have the bandwidth necessary to get both your calls and data needs taken care of.

3. Hub vs. Switch

In addition to bandwidth to the Internet, internally you should be using switches on your network rather than hubs. While hubs are fine for electronic data transmission, the transmission of voice over your network necessitates the need for switches to be used.

4. Media Gateways

If you already have a small business telephone system in place, such as a small PBX system, you can purchase a device called a "media gateway" to connect your existing phone system to the Internet without having to replace all of your phones and equipment.

This will save you money from the equipment that would have to be replaced to upgrade to VoIP services.

Moving your small business telephone system over to VoIP requires some pre-planning and consultation with an Internet provider. An experienced provider can offer the equipment and the know-how to make your move to VoIP quickly and without any inconvenience for your employees.

Search for the best VoIP Reseller Control Panel

Search for the best VoIP Reseller Control Panel

by Kristen Kiya


The latest internet telephony services and VoIP technology have ushered in a new era in communications in different parts of the world. To reach new heights in communications, every business entities as well as residential users are increasingly adopting the Voice over IP services. As a matter of fact, businesses and corporate users are bidding adieu to the years old PSTN services and promoting voice over IP technology for fulfilling their day-to-day communication needs. The advanced communication services are facilitating easy and cheap vocal communications across boundaries.

The prime motive of using IP telephony services is no longer restricted to cost effectiveness. The services come with other merits as well that include productivity benefits, voice quality management, operational support requirements and many more. Moreover, VoIP services allow users to experience unified communication. Considering these facts pertaining to internet telephony services, users are make the most of these services to transmit voice, video, images and data to others. The transmission is carried over a single IP network that enables the users to improve productivity and cut down on the calling charges. Moreover, it also allows users to accomplish multiple jobs at the same moment. As a matter of fact, VoIP services are growing rapidly, as these services allow business users as well as residential users to spend less on their telephone bills for making the long distance and international calls.

The business opportunities in the sphere of VoIP reselling cannot be denied any longer. As of now, the business opportunities in the domain of IP telephony are replete with various reseller services that are waiting to be explored by corporate and organisations. Depending upon the capital investment, one can opt for these services, as users with the low investment can venture in the domain of IP reselling with a VoIP Reseller Control Panel.

The VoIP reseller plays a vital role in the communication chain. They ensure that end-users or real users avail the benefits of IP telephony solutions. However, a business entity with an extensive customer base in a specific domain can venture into this field. All that they would need is an efficient and effective team of marketing. This would ensure the optimum use of a VoIP business reseller opportunity.

In the VoIP market, there are quite a few service providers that assist businesses and corporate houses to implement VoIP reseller control panels in their respective areas of operation. The reseller acquires some portion of the switch from the wholesalers or providers and sells VoIP minutes to end users. As a matter of fact, the wholesalers sell their services to resellers; two plans can be mentioned in this context, which are the standard plan and a white label or platinum plan. Both these programs are profitable as well as convenient in use.

Unlike standard plan, white label VoIP reseller program allows resellers to add-on the benefit of branding the services under their own name. Thereby, it can be said that in white label VoIP, the resellers sell the voice over IP services with their own brand. On the contrary, in private label VoIP programs, resellers sell the same services without branding.

To conclude, it can be said that the telecommunications industry is flooded with various reselling opportunities in the present day world. VoIP resellers and VoIP reseller control panels are the few avenues open before business users wanting to make their own mark in this domain. With a host of cost effective features, internet telephony services have gained a momentum in the communications domain.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Taking A Hard Look: VOIP Service Provider Offerings

Taking A Hard Look: VOIP Service Provider Offerings

by Jon Arnold


Almost every time you turn around, somebody else is trying to pitch VOIP to you, and with all the VOIP service providers out there, how do you know which one is right for you? If you read the marketing literature and flyers that they put out to get your attention, you would think they are all the best invention since sliced bread and canned beer.

First of all, you need to realize that at the basic fundamental level, almost all of them, at least the major ones, do perform the services as advertised. In more than 90% of the cases where a problem is reported, studies have shown that the problem is not with the VOIP service provider, but rather the problem is with the residential high speed Internet connection.

You see, the VOIP service provider does not guarantee squat about the quality of your high speed Internet connection. They make the ASSUMPTION that it is reliable and stable, with sufficient bandwidth to perform VOIP functionality. But with the extremely large variations in residential DSL and cable connections, and yes even FIOS, reliability and stability of that connection cannot be assumed. And if you only have satellite for your high speed Internet connection, don't even think about implementing VOIP at your home, as it will be a source of grief and frustration on a continual basis.

But if you do have a stable and reliable high speed Internet connection, then how do you decide which one is best for you? The feature set that they have is pretty much the same - unlimited calling in the continental United States, voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, three way calling. For residential VOIP service, what else do you really need?

So if all the features are pretty much the same, let's look at how they are priced. Now this sheds entirely new light on the subject. Vonage charges $24.99 per month. Packet8 and Earthlink VOIP charge $24.99 per month. Comcast and Charter charge $29.99 per month.

There is a better and more cost effective option for you, and the price is only $19.95 per month for even more features than the others offer. For example, in addition to unlimited calls in the continental US, they also include unlimited calls to Canada and Puerto Rico. They also offer a soft phone option where you can use your computer and a high speed Internet connection to make and receive calls. And if you want to sign up for a year at a time, the price drops to under $17.00 per month.

They don't advertise at Circuit City or Best Buy, and they don't include circulars with your Visa and MasterCard statements. Instead of wasting money on that, they pass those savings on to you in the form of a cheaper rate and more service.

When you are ready to implement VOIP at your house, be sure to consider this option and you can see your savings grow even faster with this VOIP service provider. There is little sense in spending more than you need to for anything, and VOIP is certainly no exception to that rule.

Business VoIP: Delivering business opportunities

Business VoIP: Delivering business opportunities.

by Kristen Kiya


IP Telephony solution is the concept that is getting significant esteem amid small and medium businesses as well as large business houses. If truth be told, the IP telephony, a latest method of telecommunication is taking the perception of communication to broader panoramas. As a matter of fact, all this is possible because of the Internet that is providing a solid base to the idea of "information transmission." Business houses that were formerly employing the PSTN services or conventional systems of communication are now encouraging the new and innovative telephony solutions backed with Internet Protocols. The implementation of business VoIP solutions is on a roll.

By bestowing greater advantages, the IP telephony solutions have transformed the working structure of big, small and medium sized business houses.

The cutback in calling costs, generalization of the management system and the sponsorship of real-time partnership have helped in gaining the above stated situation. In addition, the managerial efficiency has also been improved. The business VoIP solutions have simplified the process of calling longer distance or international destinations, and as it is very cost effective, there is no need to worry about the increment in the amount of monthly bills. If we compare this service with other services such as PSTN and mobile connections, then it would not be wrong to say that the user can save more than 50 percent on the monthly bills by subscribing to a business VoIP service.

The VoIP Solutions help in abridging and augmenting data, voice and video interactions across the world and thus, the business users residing in every corner of this world are gaining tactical benefits in today's market. With the implementation of VoIP solutions, we have entered in the world of amalgamated communication, where the users are able to send and receive data, video and voice using a single IP network. This service is based on the modus operandi of packet switching, which permits the users to route their communication over the Internet at high-speeds.

The demand for the VoIP and its applications is increasing with every passing day. And as a result, different users from diverse backgrounds such as large corporations, contact centers, SMBs, call centers, as well as residential users are taking their first steps towards this cost efficient technological application. After considering the above statements, we can now understand the importance of the VoIP business opportunities in a better manner.

There are many business opportunities related to the VoIP. One can avail various business options in the arena of voice over IP. From being a VoIP solution provider to wholesalers and resellers, the chances of gaining benefits from this business are really high. For example, the business opportunities in the province of VoIP reselling are increasing day-by-day and as a result, becoming an IP reseller is really turning into a highly profitable business.

Though the reselling business allied with voice over IP techniques are very much beneficial, still there are some facts that one should consider before getting into it. One should have complete knowledge of the facts that inspire an end-user to raise his or her hand for a particular business VoIP service, in the first place. They should also delve into the causes that are behind the breakdown of several VoIP reselling companies at nascent stages. The point that must be understood is that the market of IP telephony is highly volatile. And having a good command over the pros and cons in this field would surely be helpful.

A VoIP reseller with good reputation and command in the market can sell the voice minutes that is obtained from a service provider under their own trademarks. Anyone can easily become a good reseller of VoIP as there are numerous service or solution providers that offer business plans for VoIP resellers. These business plans help the resellers in putting up the products and services for sale. The plans also provide them the knowledge about how to earn a huge popularity for their brand names while they are gaining some unbelievable profits.

Cheapest solution VoIP: For cost efficient telecommunication

Cheapest solution VoIP: For cost efficient telecommunication

by Kristen Kiya


st efficiency and support for cutting-edge voice quality. Moreover, these solutions can also deliver business value for corporate users by cutting down the calling costs, simplifying the business management systems and promoting real time collaboration. It can be said that the internet telephony solutions assist the business houses to be more innovative, efficient and productive to help them to take on their global competitors.

With a wide range of benefits, new and innovative cheapest solution VoIP is ruling the business world. From big business houses to small enterprises, almost all business entities are increasingly depending on communication channels routed through the internet rather than traditional PSTN services. The best part of using a VoIP solution is that it works out much cheaper than traditional PSTN phone line connections. Moreover, it results in improvement of the organizational productivity. As a matter of fact, business houses can reap more profits by lowering down their monthly telephone bills.

The advanced features of the VoIP solutions allow the users to make local calls, long distance or international calls at cheaper rates without compromising on voice quality. A shift to such solutions significantly down-sizes the monthly telephone bills by up to 40-60 percent compared to PSTN services. Unlike the circuit switching technique, this newly advanced VoIP services ensure business-class phone capabilities.

The packet switching technique enables the users to experience fast and excellent voice quality, as it digitalises the voice signals into compressed IP packets. These digital packets absorb the noise and favors uninterrupted communication between the sender and the receiver. Therefore, users can easily transmit the audio, data, pictures and video over a high-speed single IP network.

For availing the VoIP services, one requires equipment such as standard phone and Analog Transmission Adaptor (ATA). Usually, ATA is offered by the VoIP solution provider at the time of signing-in for the services.

These solutions are beneficial for any business house, as they allow business users to access more than one call at a particular time. Moreover, business users can also send images, videos and voice through the same IP network. Moreover, VoIP solutions are backed with the state-of-the-art features such as scalability, reliability and flexibility that ensure security in communication with others.

IP solutions differ from one business to other. As a matter of fact, these solutions depend upon the usage and requirement of the respective business houses. There are two types of hosted VoIP solutions offered by the service providers namely - call termination and IP Centrex services. Therefore, depending upon the requirement, business houses can opt for any one.

Last but not the least, before opting for any IP solutions, one must search and research for the best offers provided by VoIP providers. To find the cheapest VoIP solutions, users should not forget to compare the offers from various providers. As a matter of fact, competition in this domain is quite high, a fact that has motivated the providers to come up with a range of value-added services. To attract users, some providers offers services such as call waiting, call forwarding, 3-way calling and call conferencing, among other things without compromising on the cost or voice quality.

VoIP