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Sunday, June 29, 2008

VoIP Reseller: Preferred Globally

VoIP Reseller: Preferred Globally

by Kristen Kiya


One of the internet's strengths is its ability to help the customers find the right needle in a digital haystack of data. People these days have become very avid users of internet, and they seek to find the solution for every query from the 'so called 'internet'. Moreover, several unique innovations have taken place in this arena of internet too like the unique VoIP call termination service. Actually, it is also known as voice over internet protocol which specially uses a technology that can easily transmit the phone calls to the internet and facilitate the surfers to access the long distance calls at very cheap rates.

In this case the caller automatically gets rid of the tangled fibre wires and stays dependent primarily on the internet. In this process the call rates automatically get cut down when compared to other conventional or traditional phone lines. The best thing which attracts the user to utilize the VoIP service is that one can access the international calls at very reasonable rates. However, for this purpose the speed of the internet is also very important. You can talk to your beloved ones for long hours who reside in the other part of the globe at very cheap rates. The VoIP reseller programs can be said to be the ultimate way to access the low cost voice calls on the IP services by using the fast speed internet connection anywhere and everywhere. The VoIP reseller plans basically take the assistance of the internet to access the calls very comfortably and easily. However, the whole procedure requires high speed of internet connection to allow the users to access all the facilities very comfortably.

The VoIP business plans are very lucrative and one may not require to invest huge amounts of money to become a part of the reseller program. The consumers would be charged as per the minutes which are provided by the concerned reseller. Moreover, the consumers can get the required software and hardware absolutely free of cost and avail other attractive services such as international local access number, calling cards and call back facility etc.

Basically the VoIP reseller are the one of the best means through which the browsers can connect to the end users of his choice. Anyone can easily venture into the the VoIP services and the VoIP business plans to increase the revenues at ease. They can prove to be the ultimate means to access the international calls very comfortably. The users just have to avail the calling cards to access the distant calls at very reduced rates. Moreover, this process automatically enhances the VoIP business opportunity of that concerned company.

The VoIP business plans have various value added services and offer the users ultimate satisfaction at ease. The consumers can avail such services and manage a competitive edge as far as internet services are concerned. The most efficient part of this procedure is that it permits the reseller or the consumer to become a global player and form a global distribution company very steadily.

The VoIP Race - New Technology in Communication

The VoIP Race - New Technology in Communication

by Rosie Grace Brooks


VoIP or Voice over IP, communications and service providers are situated an industry with a furious growth rate and positive trends, paving the future for business, corporate, social and scientific communication. VoIP usage in the USA is expected to have soared from just over one billion Dollars in revenue in 2004 to almost twenty billion Dollars by 2009. VoIP services are relatively new to the market prompting an incredible boost in its usage and sales. Although it would seem that the change from regular phones to VoIP phones and services is predominant in large enterprises and the small to medium enterprises, as well as domestic settings are sticking with the traditional telephone services available, VoIP is still taking over the world.

The VoIP Race
With the influx of demand on VoIP services, communication carriers and suppliers are taking up the trend and converting to these services, offering customers the best in VoIP technology whilst being teamed with an existing carrier. However, an issue affecting the service providers' business is the usage of VoIP. Many companies are installing it simply for the extra benefits and complex applications such as voice mail and relying on traditional telephones as means for direct communications instead of converting their entire PBX to VoIP. Most people are happy with regular telephones and high bills - something new is somewhat frightening to them. With these perceptions and "fears" of new technology such as VoIP, the industry will not progress as quickly as it should.

Due to the race for better prices, more features and lowest costs, the marketing features surrounding VoIP companies comes at quite a price, leading fees to increase. The cycle is a vicious one and the only provider able to combat this problem is the provider who focuses on their features being better than the rest. Small business enterprises will benefit greatly from the better features available from competing companies.

Times are a-changing!
The fearful perception of VoIP is a huge downfall for businesses still relying on old methods. The out dated methods of communication simply do not offer the advantages a VoIP PBX can. Many small businesses are fearful of moving to this technology because the technology is advanced and relatively unknown to employees and leaders of the companies. However, VoIP providers today have managed to escape the confusion and fear labelled to their services through clever changes. For example, some providers allow calls to be made through the normal phones over PSTN until clients are ready to receive calls using VoIP.

Users and observers not "in the know" may be under the misconception that VoIP is only concerned with phone calls using the internet. VoIP is not simply "talking over the internet." Features such as voice mail that is accessible over any phone or internet connection, Call Forwarding; CLI; Hunt Groups; Call Barring; Call Restriction; 3-way Conferencing; Music and Message on-hold email, fax, multiple connectivity, easy access to user features settings and much more.

Smart Communication
Many communication companies are catching on to the benefits of joining forces with VoIP service providers, incorporating good value for money deals whilst expanding both companies customer base. This amalgamation of companies allows cheaper calls and services to subscribers in the sphere of customers of both companies.

The VoIP generation is growing. Despite some fears from the public as to the technical side of the services, the growth of VoIP in the communications market, especially in corporations and businesses, is becoming greater and greater.

Sunday, June 22, 2008

VoIP Carriers: Modernise The Network with IP Technology

VoIP Carriers: Modernise The Network with IP Technology

by Kristen Kiya


In the early years of 21st century, the IP technology has become "next-generation" networks for all forms of "unified" communication. By end of the century, it is predicted that a fixed-line carrier or PSTN service will be ruled by the advanced voice over IP network. By modernizing networks with the VoIP technology, there are many strong drivers impelling service providers to deploy "next-generation" services and well known as VoIP carriers. With the lingering doubts and inhibitors on product maturity and interoperability, the unproven business and corporate houses are steadily diminishing, which is leading to increased investment.

The VoIP carrier services deliver a complete application solution such as integrated VoIP, unified communication proxy, advanced call routing support, network management support and enhanced interactive voice response. Furthermore, the packet switching technique of IP network minimses the network congestion. This technology allows to reduce bandwidth consumption by up to more than half, as it combines several voice and images packets into a single packet.

These services allow users to switch intelligently between circuits and IP. As a matter of fact, the IP services provide scalable, centralised network routing control and administration for larger networks. These carrier services also offer enhanced network routing flexibility including the QoS, source based and extensive network. Moreover, the VoIP technology also helps to lower down the maintenance costs through centralized provisioning, alarm monitoring and CDR collecting.

There are three types of VoIP carrier service providers namely Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier3. The Tier1 or wholesale carrier service providers have their own networks. They can easily manage and operate their service globally. While, the Tier-2 carriers comprise of companies that lease their services from Tier-1 providers. Lastly, the Tier- 3 providers either lease their services from Tier- 1 or Tier-2 carriers and then deliver to the end users.

Therefore, it would not be wrong to say that to a great extent, the profit and quality of service are depended upon your VoIP carrier. The users must keep various points in mind, before selecting the VoIP carrier service provider such as:

1. Quality of services: The quality of service should be the priority. One must check out the ACD, ASR and PDD. As a matter of fact, the ACD should ideally range between 2-3 minutes while, ASR should be between 40-50%. To give quality of services, the PDD should not be more than 3 seconds.
2. Rates: The market is flooded with VoIP carrier providers who offer same IP service but at different rates. Therefore, the users must carry out the depth market analysis in order to get the service from the best voice over IP carrier.
3. Availability of technical support: In this competitive world to the best, several premium VoIP providers offer round the clock online support service to their clients. This ensures uninterrupted telephony communication.

To conclude, these VoIP carrier services ensure business houses can save on their phone bills by up to 40-60 percent.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

VoIP: An Impressive Technology To Connect The World

VoIP: An Impressive Technology To Connect The World

by Kristen Kiya


VoIP is the latest means of telephony. It is an alternative that can overcome the backlogs of traditional means of telephony. The user can make use of its several features to connect to others. The connection is established with just an internet connection and devices such as computers. However, nowadays, VoIP is also available on mobile phones that makes it a completely independent wireless system.

The best part of VoIP is that there is no difference in charge rate whether the calls are long distant ones or local calls. Infact, the Voice over IP do not have any concept like international call. All calls are local and the user is charged the same even for long distance or inter-continental calls. It is a norm that the charges involved are less as compared to traditional telephony services. The system is convenient as there is no need to draw long wires to connect the phone with the service provider's office. The internet makes it possible for users to connect very easily by means of an analog adaptor that converts digital signal to analog forms. This is the reason why VoIP phone, VoIP calls and VoIP technology are enjoying huge popularity all over the world these days.

This system of telephony actually works on the principle whereby analog signals are converted to digital forms and are transferred over a PSTN network to the end user. The user retrieves the call and converts them back to analog form from their digital format. Calls are instantly transfered without any delay. The users of Voice over IP network can also simultaneously transfer pictures, videos and other attachments while making the calls. There is also the option of call conferencing and sending and receiving of files and storing the same on the memory of the secondary device that is being used to connect to the Internet.

The payment options is also very simple for VoIP (VoIP phone, VoIP call and VoIP technology). Now, it is possible to make payments of monthly bills with the aid of credit cards. Billing software are also available and once they are installed, it gives detailed information about calls being made, remaining balance in the account and the total expenditure incurred. Sometimes the service providers of VoIP offer amazing deals with their services. Under such deals it is sometimes possible for users to avail voice over service free of costs for a specified period of time. There may also be offers such as unlimited monthly or yearly benefits. The benefits may be in the form of free minutes of talk time.

The best part about Voice over IP is that it has features that are not generally found in traditional telephony services. These features are softphone, voicemail, call waiting, call ID, 3 way calling, call forwarding, in network calling, simultaneous ring and call return. These options make the system very useful and the users can make ultimate use of the technology.

The VoIP phone looks just like a traditional phone -Broadband Phones

The VoIP phone looks just like a traditional phone -Broadband Phones

by Prakash Singh


Phones that use Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, are generally referred to as broadband phones. The major function of such phones is converting analog voice data into digital data so it can be transmitted over the Internet. The phones link to high-speed Internet connections via computers that enable voice communications. Broadband phones have transformed the Internet into a technology that can provide telephone calls for free by avoiding traditional phone service providers.

VoIP phone technology has the capability of changing the way people talk to one another around the world. VoIP service providers are growing by leaps and bounds, and major phone firms are establishing a presence in markets worldwide by offering calling plans that have bundled VoIP broadband phones with their other services. The Federal Communications Commission and other regulators around the world have started to investigate the new technology and study the impact and future risks associated with it.

The VoIP phone looks just like a traditional phone. While a regular phone connects to the wall socket with an RJ-11 connector, a broadband phone connects to a computer or router using an RJ-45 connector. All broadband phones come with software pre-loaded to handle IP calls. In a recent innovation, Wi-Fi VoIP broadband phones have become available. These phones can make calls via any Wi-Fi hotspot. VoIP can also use ATA sets, which are telephone-like boxes that connect to a computer and convert analog voice data to digital signals. VoIP can connect calls made from one computer to another computer as well. This means users only pay for the Internet connection and not for the call itself. VoIP phones are dedicated devices and can be used only for making calls using this technology, however. To get a taste of what is available in a VoIP phone, users can check out the latest version of Yahoo Messenger, which is voice-enabled. It can be used to make computer-to-computer calls, and it is very easy. Another place to check is . VoIP phones can be used to call anywhere in the world that has a broadband Internet connection. VoIP firms offer rate plans similar to those of cell phone companies for individuals who want only VoIP broadband phones, usually $30 to $80 per month. Users can take their phones anywhere or use a laptop computer to make PC-to-PC calls.

Long-distance callers may be making VoIP calls involuntarily using their VoIP phones and paying regular costs. This is because most phone firms around the world want to reduce their bandwidth by routing some calls through circuit switches to an IP gateway.

Experts predict that all the existing phone technology that currently uses circuit-switched networks will be replaced by packet-switching technology. VoIP offers financial and infrastructure efficiencies, costs less, and is more effective. Broadband phones are used by most corporations, and it only a matter of time before they are commonly used in individual households. VoIP phones can be used to call anywhere in the world that has a broadband Internet connection. VoIP firms offer rate plans similar to those of cell phone companies for individuals who want only VoIP broadband phones, usually $30 to $80 per month. Users can take their phones anywhere or use a laptop computer to make PC-to-PC calls.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Common Disadvantages Of VoIP

Common Disadvantages Of VoIP

by Rivers Cruz


VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) or IP telephony is rapidly changing the way we communicate. Aside from being a lot more cheaper than traditional phones, certain features such as portability makes it attractive for residential and business owners alike. But as with all modern technologies, VoIP has its own disadvantages. These flaws are minor, and solutions are being worked out as you read this. One thing is clear, though. The advantages of VoIP clearly outweighs its disadvantages.

1. VoIP is dependent on bandwidth. Even the best of the best ISP (Internet Service Provider) experience technical issues. Since VoIP uses your Internet connection, it is bound to be affected. If your Internet is down, you will not be able to make or receive a call. If your connection is exceptionally slow, then expect low voice quality. A user might also encounter problems if he makes or receives a call while streaming videos or audio, or while downloading a large amount of data. If bandwidth is the problem, then it might be time to change your provider. Search for a more reliable and stable ISP and don't forget to ask your friends for referrals.

2. Voice quality issues. This has been a problem attributed to VoIP calls ever since its birth. Static noise, echoes, and delays are a common complaint of users. There are a number of factors that affects VoIP's voice quality: internet connection, the hardware in use, the VoIP provider, distance of call, and many more. It is best to try out the service before committing to it. Also, try different combinations of hardware until you get the results that you want.

3. VoIP needs power. Unlike traditional phones, VoIP needs electricity to work. You have to plug in your modem, ATA, and other VoIP hardware for you to be able to make and receive a call. You can not use your phone if there is a power interruption. Emergency power generators might be a little far-fetched for a regular home to have, but if you are running a business then you should probably get one.

4. Emergency calls. If you use traditional phones to dial 911, it will be diverted to a call center nearest to you where the operator has the ability to see where exactly you are calling from. Using VoIP, there is no way to trace where your call is coming from. In addition, if the emergency involves a power interruption then you will not be able to make a VoIP call. There is a new service called E911, which a lot of VoIP providers are offering. It is for your best interest to ask your provider regarding this and other emergency calling issues.

To be on the safe side, having a traditional phone aside from the VoIP phone is a good idea. It will also help if you could write down individual phone numbers of emergency facilities (local police, fire station, hospitals, etc.) and post it near your phone.

Keep in mind that these are just minor inconveniences and every passing day VoIP is advancing. Its advantages and benefits are too many to pass up. Soon it will replace traditional phones as the communication technology of choice.

The Advantages of Private Label VoIP

The Advantages of Private Label VoIP

by Kristen Kiya


The users of Voice over IP find it very convenient to access telephony services if they are registered with the Private label VoIP. It is due to the fact that Private label offers a very simplified communication solution. It eases establishing connection to wholesale service providers. Once the connection is established it obviously becomes easy to terminate calls to distant places on earth. Hence, unlimited calling becomes possible with the private label VoIP.

The VoIP technology and VoIP reseller programs comes loaded with rich features that make the entire process of telephony very exciting. Moreover, with the advent of private label VoIP, telephony has become far more simplified than ever. The users can now access services of VoIP from wholesalers and re-sell them in their own brand name. The users can also use the services for personal reasons. It makes the entire process of making calls very thrilling and cost effective. VoIP as such is known for its low cost service. The Private Label makes it more cost effective as it empowers the users to become service providers.

The services of VoIP reduces the financial burden on its users by reducing the long distance call rates to local call rates. The user is benefited with unlimited calls at price rates that have never been possible before with traditional networks. On availing the Voice over IP network, the users can access services such as Voicemail, Visual voicemail, email and a lot of calling facilities. Notable calling facilities such as call waiting, call forwarding, conference calling and the do not disturb feature have been widely appreciated amongst all segments of its clientèle. The private label VoIP works on low international call rates that benefit the users by offering the option of making emergency calls. In case of White label VoIP, making emergency calls may not be possible, as the user avails the voice over service in the brand name of the wholesaler. Whereas in case of Private label, the user does his own branding and optimises the whole array of VoIP services to meet all communication requirements.

So, with varied VoIP reseller programs, there is an enormous scope for business to grow. Infact, VoIP business opportunity has considerably enhanced with the emergence of Private Label as it offers numerous user-friendly options of connectivity. The users stand to gain by using the wide spectrum of services that VoIP offers. Its customer-friendliness extends to easy billing provisions, technical support in the form of call centers, free software for better control, flat rate with no hidden costs.

Little surprising then, the Voice Over IP has grown tremendously all over the world. People now really have started to understand the massive business opportunity provided by VoIP. Moreover, branded VoIP reseller in the form of Private Label VoIP has really eased things and people who are basically "users" have started becoming service providers in an unprecedented way.

Monday, June 16, 2008

The Virtual Call Center - courtesy of the VoIP PBX

The Virtual Call Center - courtesy of the VoIP PBX

by Chris Brown


Imagine working in a call center that handles customer service duties for several major lending institutions across the country. Out of millions of clients, there will surely be a tens of thousands that miss a payment. It means that hundreds of thousands of outgoing calls must be made monthly. Many clients will not be contactable on the first, second or even third call and experience tells us that they don't return calls from debt recovery agents. Over ninety percent of these calls will be long distance calls.The duration of some calls may exceed 30 minutes such as when details require clarifying or payment arrangements negotiated. Now imagine what the monthly phone bill would be for such a call center. When one takes this information into consideration it becomes clear why so many businesses have installed a VoIP PBX or signed up with a VoIP virtual call center.

All businesses must do their best to eliminate unnecessary costs where ever possible. But, in some instances there are costs that are unavoidable. In years past, a call center could not operate without incurring enormous line rental and call charges associated with long distance calls. A VoIP virtual call center equipped with a VoIP PBX and soft predictive dialers provide an alterative model that delivers relief from the burden of long distance calls over the PSTN.

For those not familiar with VoIP, it stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. In laymen's terms, a VoIP system allows two or more parties to speak with one another over a packet switched IP network. Voice communication is effectively carried across networks as packets of data in the same way as data associated with IT applications. This means that long distance telephones conversations can by-pass the PSTN and instead use the Internet or private networks to carry voice over expensive long distance legs. As a consequence, VoIP has dramatically cut the cost of business communication and VoIP business solutions have emerged as the new de facto standard business telephone system.

Originally, VoIP started as an extension of internet messenger services but now it has been integrated into various business software programs. The use of VoIP PBX software is a huge money saver for businesses; particularly those businesses that make extensive use of the telephone. Needless to say, a virtual call center using VoIP as its primary communication service will make enormous cost savings.

The common denominators that characterize today's virtual call centers include: (1) Application integration and convergence. (2) The ability for software to connect customer service functions through a web interface. (3) The use of packet switched communication protocols for all voice communication. (4) The ability to route calls quickly and efficiently to their proper destination. (5) The ability to scale up or scale down operations without significant capital expenditure commitment.

The VoIP PBX makes this possible since it uses IP based software applications that are more flexible and adaptive than hardware centric circuit based solutions.

A VoIP based virtual call center makes numerous options available to SMBs that need to expand their operations, but do not want to invest huge amounts of capital. Then again, even large corporations benefit from the streamlined approach that a VoIP virtual call center offers. That is why such systems are gaining in popularity every day.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

VoIP requirements list-You can start using VoIP now

VoIP requirements list-You can start using VoIP now

by Kamran Chow


Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the newest technology letting you to make and receive voice calls by utilizing a net connection, especially broadband, as a replacement to an analog or the ordinary telephone line. In addition, it's known as the Broadband telephony, Voice over Broadband, IP Telephony Broadband Phone, and Internet telephony.

Your voice is transformed into a digital signal which goes over the cyberspace through the VoIP services. When calling a regular phone number, the signal is coverted to a regular phone signal just prior to its arrival at the address. VoIP could let you make a call either instantly from a special VoIP phone, a computer, or a conventional phone connected to one particular adapter. Wireless "hotspots" like airports and parks let you to link to the net enabling you to utilize VoIP service wirelessly.

The primary elements for having a VoIP telephone system is the telephones, the service, and the connection. The telephones are the actual units you handle for speaking. The service pertains to the firm which causes the whole system operates and links up telephones to the worldwide telephone network. The connections are the cables or hosts, gateways, switches, and routers which are running fully and linked up to the Internet and to the PSTN.

A broadband or a high speed net connection is one principal necessity for using VoIP. Such connection could be managed with a cable modem or high speed services, like a local area network (LAN) or a digital subscriber line (DSL). Your computer is also a very significant equipment that is involved. The adaptor or special phone is also needed.

Your business will need to have an internal Ethernet network because of the IP network utilization for VoIP. Once you are utilizing computers in your business, you surely have it, so you do not have to worry. However, in case you realize that you do not have one, you can purchase an affordable one then have it easily set up.

VoIP services might let you to call others who are using the same service; But, there are a few that lets you call everyone having a phone number. This includes international numbers, cell phones, local telephone number, and long-distance call.

It can be predicted that in the next two decades, every home would be using a VoIP telephone system. This would stand for a substantial revolutionized communication technology.

The Benefits of VoIP For Consumers Around the World

The Benefits of VoIP For Consumers Around the World

by Anthony Coleman


Do you have family that lives abroad? Do you travel overseas in your job frequently and wish to stay in touch with your loved ones back home? No one has to tell you that international phone calls can get expensive and yes, instant messaging via the Internet is free but you don't get the same warm feeling reading words on a scream as you do when you actually get to talk to someone.

VoIP let's both individuals that wish to simply keep in touch as well as businesses talk to friends, relatives and business associates internationally, and in some cases the call will be free or simply a nominal charge. Also, VoIP is available even in areas where there are not phone lines, all you need is the ability to access the Internet through a WiFi connection and this is easy if you're using a cell phone.

Imagine being on a business trip and stopping at an Internet cafe to check your email and also have the ability to make a phone call to someone nearly anywhere in the world either at their own computer, cell phone or land line.

Using a computer to make VoIP calls is a snap. There are many services that require a very small (and usually free) software download. Some companies charge a small monthly subscription fee and others do not. The subscription based VoIP providers generally provide a wider range of services.

To make a VoIP call over your PC, you merely need to connect your headset and microphone so you can hear and be heard; then connect to the website of the VoIP provider. Usually you will input that you're calling from and the number you wish to connect to. If you're using a PC - there is often an option to state so and in some cases your cell phone number. The VoIP will send out an automated phone call that will either connect to your PC or call the cell phone. When you answer, the VoIP provider will call the other number of the party you wish to call. When they answer, simply begin speaking normally and enjoy your phone call.

If you're calling from a cell phone or land line, your VoIP provider will most likely either have an access number you dial locally wherever in the world you may be (many providers have access numbers around the world). When you call the access number, you'll input your personal PIN to identify yourself and then make your phone calls.

There are also services that allow you to plug a simple VoIP jack into your USB port and make phone calls anywhere in the US and Canada for free. These same services also allow people in other countries to use these VoIP jacks in their own computers and make phone calls to the United States and Canada for free. This saves hundreds if not thousands of dollars on international phone calls.

Voip Service for Business

Voip Service for Business

by Simon Templar


Skype can be very beneficial as a voip service for business, not just individuals. In addition to that, Skype is capable of much more than inexpensive VoIP communication. It offers a host of features available for free, including instant messaging and free video chats.

There are fee based features that Skype offers that can improve the way you do business. By incorporating Skype into your business, you are taking a step towards increased productivity and profit margins. Skype provides business owners with extra tools and features that can set them ahead of their competition. Skype can be much more than a business voip service. It can also be a productive business tool, if applied to it's full potential.

Perhaps the most useful aspect of using Skype VoIP for business is that Skype offers the ability to make and receive calls outside of the Skype network. But that isn't the only time and money saving benefit of Skype. The following are key features of Skype VoIP for business:

SkypeOut
The feature called SkypeOut allows you unlimited calling for a low locked in rate. This tool can save you business lots of money increasing productivity.

SkypeIn
The Skype feature called SkypeIn can also be incorporated into your business. With this effective feature you receive a personal phone number that allows the user to get calls from anywhere in the world through Skype. This tool can be incorporated into your business by becoming the main number of your business. You can receive calls from regular landline phones and mobile phones with this feature. This tool gives your business an international number to stay in constant contact with your customers locally or overseas.

Skype Voicemail
This feature works inbound and outbound. It is like having a 24/7 virtual secretary working for your business. Skype Voicemail feature takes voice messages when you're offline, busy with another call, and unavailable to answer the phone. This tool is perfect for any business.

Call Forwarding
Here is another useful feature of Skype that is easily incorporated into your business. It allows you to answer calls even when you do not have access to a computer.

Skype SMS
You can make business conference calls and chat with multiple people at once by incorporating the Skype SMS feature.

Summing Up with Skype
Many businesses miss important opportunities and customers because they lack an effective means of maintaining open lines of communication. Incorporating Skype VoIP service for business will provide a flexible, powerful communication system to stay in touch with your customers and business contacts.

VoIP Solutions: The New Age Telephony

VoIP Solutions: The New Age Telephony

by Kristen Kiya


Voice over Internet Protocol(VoIP) is a more common term of 'phone over the Internet'. If you have a reasonable quality Internet connection then you can get phone services delivered to your Internet connection. Before reaching the destination, the technology converts voice into regular telephonic signal. By using this service, you can directly make calls from your computer with the help of a special VoIP phone or a traditional phone connected to a special adapter. This function can either be included into the phone itself or in a separated box like a Analog Terminal Adapter(ATA).

Some people use VoIP solutions along with their traditional phone service, though VoIP solution providers usually offer lower rates than the traditional companies. Sometimes VoIP phone calls (even international) can be absolutely FREE. Several service providers are present who provide these type of â€Å“free” facilities. Examples are: 'Free World Dial up' and 'Skype'. The service providers sometime permit to select an area code different from the area. On the other side, some VoIP providers do charge for a long distance call for outside calling area, just like the traditional wireless telephone service. And some VoIP solution providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number for a minute.

The VoIP-to-VoIP phone calls are sometimes free while VoIP calls connecting to Public Switching Telephone Network (VoIP-to-PSTN) may have an attached cost that is charged by the VoIP service provider.

There are three categories of VoIP service provider. These are, Single line resident/business plans service provider, B2B service provider-bulk organisational/terminal service provider (Business VoIP solutions) and RIP VoIP service provider.

You can use your computer while talking on the VoIP phone and some service provider offers service that can be used where a high speed Internet connection is not available. Using VoIP service in a new location may affect your ability to connect directly to emergency services. So, be ready to use the services of VoIP solutions but with due care.

VoIP: Cost Effective Calling Rates

VoIP: Cost Effective Calling Rates

by Kristen Kiya


Cost effective, flexibility and mobility are some of the major criteria which people seek to avail in the telecommunication arena. One can avail the facilities of VoIP to enjoy long distance and international calls at very cheap rates. In fact, the technology is developing at a very fast face which in turn offers various cost effective solutions for almost every type of problem. With this VoIP technology, one can enjoy the voice calls by using the high speed internet connection instead of an analog phone line. One can make local, national and international calls at ease without any concern for the affordability factor.

Some of the VoIP services operates over a special VoIP phone or a computer while there are some which would efficiently allow the users to use their landline phone which should be connected to the VoIP adapter. These services work on the principle of converting the user's voice into digital signal which would travel through the internet. As a matter of fact, if the caller is using a frequently used phone number, the signal gets converted to the telephone signal before reaching the destination. As such, one can enjoy making calls directly from his or her computer, landline phone or a specific VoIP phone. Moreover, there are certain points of interest such as airport, Internet cafes and parks etc which would easily connect you to the internet and help you to access the VoIP service wirelessly.

To avail high speed internet connection a DSL or a cable modem, or local area network is required. Now, if you want to avail this unique services on your computer, some specific software and a good microphone are quite necessary. By using this amazing VoIP technology, one can enjoy talking with more than one person simultaneously. Moreover, the 24 x 7 customer care service offered by the technology would give you ultimate freedom to crosscheck all your queries regarding any issue. You can also share certain pictures, videos and text apart from talking to friends and beloved ones through the VoIP calls.

The efficient VoIP phone uses the Internet connection. With these phones, you can comfortably save a considerable amount at the end of the month. In fact these services would offer you exciting extra features such as call forwarding, call waiting, call diverting etc at ease.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Know More About Hosted Contact Center VoIP Solutions

Know More About Hosted Contact Center VoIP Solutions

by Kristen Kiya


In this contemporary world, business and corporate houses are searching for various ways to increase their competitiveness in terms of lowering down the calling costs and improving the organizational proposition. As a matter of fact, the traditional telephone networks are designed to carry low-fidelity signals with a high level of reliability. Though they are very reliable for the audio communication, but are not suited to provide services for digital communication applications. Thanks to the new technology called VoIP- Voice over Internet Protocol for initiating 'unified' communication.
The voice over internet protocol allows the users to send & receive voice, data and images over a single IP network. Apart from this, the main attraction of hosted business VoIP services is its calling price. The calling price over this technique is minimal as packet switching technique is used in them. The VoIP solutions use packet-switched networks to facilitate non-real-time data using much less bandwidth. The advantages of internet telephony solutions include flexibility, efficiency, and scalability.

1.Flexibility: The hosted business VoIP services provides flexibility. As a matter of fact, these services can be used in a variety of configurations to suit a number of users, client/server application requirements and desired bandwidth.
2.Efficiency: The bandwidth is consumed when needed. Unlike traditional PSTN services, the service providers cover same network for carrying voice and data networks i.e. voice, video, fax, and data traffic. Furthermore, this increases the efficiency of the bandwidth, as many terminals on the same connection are shared with the network.
3.Scalability: In the hosted VoIP solutions, one can easily extend or add the telephone lines as per the demand of the organization.

These advantages help the users to save money and improve the organizational productivity. As per the statistics, more than 25 million small & medium businesses or SMBs are making use of VoIP services.

To improve the sales and market shares, contact centers have refined their marketing strategies. Considering this fact, VoIP contact center solutions have widened their scope in various sectors including telemarketing, e-mailing, instant messaging and online communication. With the application of hosted contact center VoIP solutions, the users or clients of business and corporate houses are able to grow instantly without spending much on the infrastructural enhancements. Moreover, with these services, the users enjoy freedom to locate and relocate anywhere across the globe.

To conclude, the business users or clients can enjoy the benefits of technical assistance or customer services at any time of the day, as and when required. Hence, it can be stated that hosted business VoIP solutions allow the users to enjoy long distance and international calling at discounted rates.

Friday, June 6, 2008

VoIP Phones: Unbeatable Connectivity And More

VoIP Phones: Unbeatable Connectivity And More

by Alice Erin


The VOIP phones are self contained and look just like conventional phones. These gadgets work on broadband networks and deliver effective connectivity at some unbelievable prices. VoIP phones are not restrictive in the way that they can be used. Potential users could use them with suitable plans from the providers of IP telephony services. This way, the users can make the most of existing modules and make calls to international numbers at low costs.
The international standards of connectivity are met by VOIP as it can connect with almost every gadget and that too from any place on earth.

Many of these gadgets come with answering machines that make life easy for the potential users. The users are able to personalize these gadgets by downloading polyphonic ringtones of their choice. Vibrant colour schemes, Wi-Fi, and the capabilities to send sms messages are the added benefits of using many of these devices.

The VoIP phones are known for their inherent ability to serve people with the best of services available. These services can be availed at very affordable costs.

The mobiles can be bought on options such as pay as you go where by the user has the freedom to connect internationally as well as locally at low cost rates. The caller can also identify gadgets in over 30 countries worldwide using the VOIP phones and then can make calls to these countries at a very minimum international call rate.

The handsets are furnished with large memory support and allows the users to store files of use. The battery too is slated to render long hours of standby time and talktime. This adds more capacity to the Voip Phones that can now be used for sending messages, making calls for long hours and for carrying the phone to distant places after recharging the battery once.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

VoIP Phone Service: Manifesting Itself As A Giant Means of Telephony

VoIP Phone Service: Manifesting Itself As A Giant Means of Telephony

by Kristen Kiya


VoIP Phone Service, is a trend-setter in itself with a number of service providers working to provide the best of IP services to customers worldwide. This service has successfully overcome many backlogs of the past. This type of telephony makes it evident that users can utilise high end services at a reasonably low cost in every place of the world. The system simplifies broadband telephony and makes the services low cost ones. The international rates charged on phone calls are actually local rates. So, the users are not troubled with the concern of having to pay huge call rates.
There are many attractive features of VoIP. It includes cheap international rates, money back guarantee, 30 calling features and customised accounts. These have generated a huge clientele for VoIP in the entire world. The world has sufficed technologies that are the best and bring to limelight connectivity methods with VoIP as a interactive mode. There are several advantages associated with VoIP phone service. The Voice over IP services include:

1.Substantial savings in comparison to traditional phone lines.
2.Local phone service is not necessary with VoIP.
3.It opines to one's ability to move anywhere in the world.
4.It gives a detailed online tracking so as to monitor one's account actively.
5.There are unique phone features that are unavailable with traditional providers.
6.Video conferencing is offered by several service providers.

The broadband VoIP phone service ensures high call quality and customer support. One just needs to subscribe to a VoIP service provider and the rest of the facilities are provided by the service provider. There are rich features such as fax support, call logs, speed dial and three-way calling that the service provider of VoIP furnishes. The extras features of VoIP internet phone service include call forwarding, selective call rejection, priority ringtones and caller ID recognition. The VoIP phone service provider offers free software to people so as to allow them avail the services of Voice over network.

The VoIP phone service has many benefits whereby it is possible for the users to go for annual prepay deals, select one's area code and also avail cheap international call rates. The professional installation makes it possible for people to make international calls from their home base with the aid of a Personal Computer. The Voice Over IP service also makes it possible for people to make Video calls to others whereby the user gets the opportunity to see the person he is talking to. Sending and receiving files also becomes easy with the VoIP Internet phone service. So, one can upload pictures and videos and share them with other callers while taking to them. Thus Voice Over IP service is a method of connecting to others.

sipgate Opens Up iPhone to Third-Party VoIP Services

sipgate Opens Up iPhone to Third-Party VoIP Services

by sipgate


SAN FRANCISCO, CA - June 4, 2008 - sipgate Inc. (www.sipgate.com) today announces the immediate availability of a free application for the iPhone, which, for the first time allows consumers to natively use any VoIP service which uses the industry standard SIP. Consumers can now use their iPhones to make and receive VoIP calls from their devices over a Wi-Fi Internet connection using a wide variety of VoIP providers. The VoIP-enabling software is available from sipgate's website www.sipgate.com.
With the sipgate service, users can dial any number without using minutes from a wireless plan. This is particularly useful when calling to or from other countries, as call costs can be as high as $3 per minute. However, when using a VoIP service, costs can be kept as low as $0.01 per minute. sipgate is giving new users 111 free minutes for domestic calls for users to test out VoIP usage on the device*.

Another benefit of sipgate is that consumers can use any domestic or international number provided by their VoIP service on their iPhone. This means that they can make and receive calls from different domestic and international numbers, all on a single device.

Thilo Salmon, CEO of sipgate commented: "We love VoIP and we love the iPhone so we are giving people like us who always wanted VoIP on the iPhone the ability to use any SIP-based VoIP service they want. We are thrilled that Apple is opening up the iPhone and we look forward to taking part in future application development."

Salmon continued: "As a company we strive to make useful services accessible to everyone. There will be more innovation for businesses and consumers coming from sipgate this year, so keep your eyes open for more news."

Can A VoIP Cell Phone Save You Big Money?

Can A VoIP Cell Phone Save You Big Money?

by Paul Chartiss


It used to be that anyone who wanted to place long distance phones calls to family or friends had to sign up with a long distance phone company. This service did allow us to place long distance calls but often brought with it very high per minute costs, making long distance calls an expensive proposition. It was a great relief, therefore, when the advent of cell phone service brought great change.
Cell phone plans gave us access to a certain number of call minutes for a set price plus, usually, free nationwide long distance on evenings and weekends. Of course, they also had disadvantages such as sometimes spotty service areas, dropped calls and, all too often, bad reception. Now VOIP is bringing us yet another option for long distance service, promising greater convenience and freedom. We can even consider combining cell phones and VOIP technology. Can these promises be fulfilled?

There are three types of VOIP service usually offered: computer-to-computer, IP phone and ATA. These services are all offered through your own computer at home. The simplest, perhaps, is the ATA (analog telephone adapter) mode, which allows you to use your existing home phone. You simply connect that phone to your computer and the VOIP service converts analog sound into digital data and vice versa. IP (Internet Protocol) service uses specially designed phones. These phones look like a regular phone but are set up internally to be VOIP compatible. IP phones can be cordless, giving you the convenience of moving freely through your home or office as you speak.

The most unusual option is computer-to-computer VOIP. For this your provider will give you special software to install on your computer. Long distance calls are placed directly from the computer. Instead of a phone handset you use a microphone attached to the computer to speak. All of these services can be useful and convenient but none offer the total portability of cell phones. Now the concept of VOIP cell phones is causing some excitement, offering a combination of appealing features with low cost long distance and portability.

Most people turn to VOIP because of the savings available. Normal VOIP service offers a great combination of features such as Caller ID, Call Waiting, 3-way Calling, free domestic calls and extremely inexpensive international calling rates. For all this you will normally be charged from $19.95 to $34.95. An additional charge, of course, is for your ISP which probably runs about $40 monthly for broadband access. Even ISP and VOIP together is still likely to be cheaper, however, than continuing with a conventional phone company. This may not be true, however, if you also change your cell phone to VOIP.

VOIP cell phone plans usually have both a per-minute and a monthly fee. Someone who does not currently use all their allotted minutes in the plan they have will probably not realize any savings by switching to VOIP cell phone service. And if your Internet connection is frequently interrupted you will also experience the dropped calls that can sometimes plague traditional cell phones. Still, for someone with reliable Internet service who frequently makes international calls from their cell phone or exceeds their traditional plan minutes, VOIP cell phone service can be a great alternative.

Obviously, for some people VOIP is, even now, a great solution. All your services can be bundled into one communications package and the technology, while still young, is improving all the time. If you are constantly going over your minutes and/or make international calls from your cell phone it would make sense for you to consider a reasonably priced VOIP plan. If you don't need more minutes and don't make international calls then it probably makes more sense to wait while the technology improves and the service becomes even better.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

How Does VoIP Work? Understanding the Basics

How Does VoIP Work? Understanding the Basics

by Torrie Cantor


How does VoIP work? Like many people, you may have already heard of VoIP. If you weren't born in this decade, you may still wonder what it really is. What can VoIP do for you and how exactly is it useful?
Basic Concept

VoIP stands for voice over internet protocol. These days, it is considered an alternative to the typical method of communication involving telephones. Instead of using telephone sets that transmit analog signals, VoIP converts these signals to digital chunks. These are reconverted to audio data when it reaches the recipient. The entire transmission happens over the internet. Although VoIP technology is still far from being preferred and considered standard, some people think that VoIP will eventually replace telephones. It could very well be the next step in communications technology.

The Specifics

So how does VoIP work exactly? VoIP is best understood by understanding typical phone calls first. Regular phone calls make use of what is called circuit switching. When you make a call, your call is passed through a series of switches starting from your phone carrier. Once the other party answers the call, the circuit between the two of you is opened.

Instead of circuit switching VoIP uses packet switching. In this technology, your voice is converted to little packets of data. These packets of data come with their instructions of where they should be sent. They are then sent through a variety of possible routes. They take the nearest router and are passed on to succeeding routers until they reach the recipient. When the packets are received, they are reassembled into a form that can be understood.

Advantages of VoIP

VoIP can offer all the features and benefits of a phone service. Its advantage over traditional phones is that VoIP calls can be made from almost any part of the world. Wherever there is an internet connection, you can have VoIP. The technology can provide cheaper calls than standard telephone technology. This is mainly because VoIP does away with costly circuit switching.

Disadvantages of VoIP

VoIP can be fast, convenient and cheap. It has, however its own disadvantages. These disadvantages are basically due to: (1) the current reliance of present systems on telephone technology; and (2) the shortcomings that plague computer technology.

Telephone Connections - Such services for example as security and cable still rely on telephone connections. Unless the whole country or world agrees to switch to VoIP, these services are likely to stick to their old methods.

This is not the biggest concern though. Since VoIP relies on internet technology, it is also susceptible to the problems that confront the internet and computers. You can therefore expect such problems as viral attacks, crashes and stolen packets.

Now you know the basic answer to how does VoIP work. In reality, this piece of technology does hold a lot of potential. Like everything else, the old ways of communicating over long distances can change. VoIP is the first logical shift that can be taken. It may take a long time however, before VoIP can become a fully integrated and snag free system.

VoIP Ratings: What They Can Tell You

VoIP Ratings: What They Can Tell You

by Torrie Cantor


You can learn a lot just by looking at VoIP ratings. The quality of provider's service is reflected in a rating. Ratings are typically given from one to five with a full five being the highest. The best VoIP providers would naturally be those that fall within the 3.5-5 ratings.
VoIP ratings however should rarely ever stand alone. If you are a careful subscriber, you would normally base your decision on more than just the numerical rating. VoIP rating sites should contain a couple of other pieces of information. Here are some things that you should look for in a VoIP rating site:

- Ratings should come with reviews. Some people may not be comfortable about reading lots of text. Sometimes, it's tempting to just take a rating for what is. Then again, you should want to know why particular providers have such a rating. You can get the reasons from the review text.

- Raters and reviewers should also be publicized by these rating sites. This is important because you do not want to read reviews and ratings from ghost writers. Some sites could publish bogus reviews with the hidden intent of actually getting customers for a particular provider. Legitimate raters and reviewers may be real technology experts or actual VoIP users.

- There should be some basis for the VoIP ratings. This is especially so if the ratings are provided by technology experts. How exactly do they rate providers? Are the providers actually tested or used? Do raters only base ratings based on what they read too about these providers. First hand information should always be preferred when referring to ratings and reviews.

- An honest reviews should contain disadvantages of a particular provider. You would want a fair and balanced view about providers. One that only praises a provider is of no practical use to you. You would want to know the pitfalls of signing up with a particular provider and what you should watch out for.

- Good rating sites are those that contain a list of provider services. Of course, you can always go to the provider's web page to check what they have to offer. It would be very convenient for you however if you happened upon a review site that has all the necessary details. This will make side by side provider comparison much easier for you.

- The price list is another thing you should look for in a ratings site. It is true that the price should never be your sole basis for deciding. The price still really matters though. It would help if expert raters and reviewers considered the price alongside the features in determining whether a provider can give a good deal.

Unbiased and Independent Ratings - You may not always be able to come across independent VoIP ratings. The ones that really are independent however can really offer you great help when deciding on a VoIP provider. Take some time to research on good independent raters before you sign up with a provider.

The Real Score About Low Rate VoIP

The Real Score About Low Rate VoIP

by Torrie Cantor


It is not uncommon for people to look for low rate VoIP. In general, all forms of VoIP services are already cheaper than the usual telephone service. Since there are many VoIP providers however, service prices also tend to vary. Depending on several reasons and factors, some providers are really cheaper than others. Here are a couple of things you should know about low rates for VoIP.
Free VoIP Services

Rarely do we ever hear of truly free things these days. With VoIP becoming more popular, it is hard to imagine that anyone would offer it for free. There are however some instances when VoIP can be had for free. If you are looking for the lowest VoIP rate, nothing can go lower than free. Here are some points to consider about free VoIP services.

- Some providers may offer VoIP for free but only as part of a promo. The free service may not last for long so you should make sure to check the fine print before using VoIP with a provider.

- Some providers offer 100% free VoIP but only for a limited number of places. In some cases, they may limit the number of hours you can use the service. They may also limit the number of IP addresses you can send to.

- A number of small independent providers may offer free services with few limitations. These may be small companies though and they may not always offer the features that bigger companies offer. Voice quality may also no be as excellent.

Low Rate VoIP

You may think that free services aren't for you. You may want to have some features that just aren't available in free services. If this is the case, then you might just want to settle on paying for low rates. Again services, with low rates have a couple of considerations:

- Price isn't the only indicator that should influence your decision. The lowest VoIP rates don't always mean that you have a great deal. The low rates may be because a company is not yet well known. It may also be because they really don't offer good services. Before signing up for VoIP providers with low rates, make sure that they have fairly tolerable services.

- You may be able to get lower rates if you choose your features carefully. You may for example, not need 3-way call or redirect call features. If you want to have VoIP simply for making basic, personal and local calls, then you can pick the package with less features so you also pay less.

Checking Out a Comparison Site

Online Comparison - The best way to find the best VoIP rate deals is to go to comparison sites. Various sites rate, rank and review VoIP services. Depending on the site you are on, they may also provide the specific features of various VoIP providers.

It would be good if you picked a comparison site that actually really tests VoIP. Some sites may only offer reviews based on second hand information. An alternative would be to go to a site that has consumer reviews in it.

Low rate VoIP may not be that hard to find. You do have to spend some time though, finding out if you really have a good deal on your hands.

VoIP