What is VoIP?
VoIP means ‘Voice over Internet Protocol’.
How does it work in practice?
VoIP allows you to communicate via the internet. So, rather than using a phone or mobile, you can speak to someone using VoIP. Calls over the internet are usually free-of-charge. VoIP is also referred to as IP Telephony (Internet Protocol Telephony).
Can I speak to someone who doesn’t have VoIP?
Yes, you can call either fellow VoIP users or people who have a standard telephone and telephone number. You will have to buy credits so at this stage the phone call is no longer free but it is still usually far cheaper.
What do I need?
At its simplest level you can download some software (the most well known is Skype, but there are many others available), set up your details and you’re able to communicate with anyone with the same system. Skype, for example, is free and all you need to purchase is a headset and microphone. You can even get a phone that accepts both VoIP and normal calls.
Is it something that I can install myself?
Again, at a basic level it is easy to set up. That said, for a company wide system it can be more complex.
Why do I need it?
Quite simply because it’s cheaper to use than standard phone calls and in many cases, such as VoIP user to VoiP user, it’s free. Once you’ve found your contacts, friends and family you can make free calls at any time.
What other free VoIP packages are available?
For home users and small organisations there are Skype, Google Talk, Jabbin, Mind Spring, AOL and Yahoo to name a few.
What if I want a VoIP system but the freeware solutions are not appropriate?
For larger organisations where there are more complex issues to resolve, you will need to discuss your requirements with a specialist provider.
Can I communicate with other VoIP users if they are using another freeware package?
Unfortunately not. This is the main reason that they are free. In order to do this you need a more complex system and would as a result need to pay.