The Skype Approach to VoIP - A Review of Skype

With internet usage reaching almost every country, and economic class, and with its permeation throughout the western world, applications designed to harness its potential in ever more practical ways are constantly arising. One such application is Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP), which continues to challenge its own limitations. There are a few leading players who are jostling for supremacy, including Yahoo! Messenger, MSN Messenger, Skype, and Vonage.

Recently, there have been many converts to Skype, including this reviewer. There are several factors that have influenced my own personal move, but my primary motivations were innovation, quality, and marketability. VoIP has always been an application that is easily marketable, and Skype has added innovative features that are quality-rich:

รขโ�ฌยข SkypeOut, where you can use your computer to call ordinary phone numbers all over the world. The global SkypeOut rate is currently 1.7 Euro Cent (about 2 US cents or 1.1 pence) per minute to more than 20 countries.

รขโ�ฌยข SkypeIn, which is a virtual phone number your friends can call. This is in beta testing at the time of writing this review, but the 12-month subscription is available for รขโ��ยฌ 30 and 3 months for รขโ��ยฌ 10.

รขโ�ฌยข Skype Voicemail, which lets you redirect calls to your voicemail, is available at รขโ��ยฌ 5 for 3 months or รขโ��ยฌ 15 for the year.

However, the most widespread application of Skype is PC-to-PC calls. Any user can make free calls over the Internet to anyone else who also has Skype. It is a simple wizard-based process to download and use the application, and works via your broadband connection with operating systems based on Microsoft Windows, Mac, Linux, and Pocket PCs. All you need is a PC microphone and speakers or a basic USB headset, and what you get is a real-time, telephone-quality voice conversation with any PC end-user in the world. I found the downloading to be extremely simple and straightforward and imagine that anyone, no matter your computer fluency will find it easy as well.

In addition to its ease of setup, the features of Skype are really impressive. There is a facility to search the Skype database, so that you are able to build a list of contacts. We have used Skype for Windows 1.4 for a PC-to-PC conversation between Los Angeles and Mumbai (India), and there was no recorded break in the half-hour call. The clarity was definitely on par with a normal telephone, perhaps even better, with no noticeable time lag. On subsequent calls between these destinations and other US cities including Chicago, the quality continues to amaze us, and the fact that Skype works in most environments, irrespective of firewalls or NAT, widens its reach.

So, whatรขโ�ฌโ�ขs the downside? A comparative analysis will help clarify the situation. For a start, Skype does not offer as many calling features as other service providers like Vonage. Then, there have been question marks about the technical/customer support offered by Skype. Another point where Skype loses out is the quality of the SkypeOut package, where the calls made to landlines are of inconsistent quality. One hopes that Skype can add video chat to its repertoire in the near future, which will place Skype on an equal standing with other free VoIP providers like Yahoo! Messenger and MSN Messenger, which already have video capabilities. Skype is undoubtedly ahead of both MSN and Yahoo in terms of voice quality and the real-time conversation experience. On the other side of the spectrum, Vonage offers feature-rich services and better customer service, although all this comes at a price.

My Overall Assessment: Vonage is a better option than Skype for traditional telephone users because Skype is totally computer-dependent and caters to consumers who are "living out of their computers."

The future has a lot to offer, and undoubtedly Skype will move forward in its evolutionary process, and hopefully improve SkypeOut and emerge successfully out of beta testing for SkypeIn. However, for the moment, Skype is arguably the best option for free PC-to-PC calls. Skype says that the "current focus is to make the best voice-application on the planet"รขโ�ฌโ��judging from user feedback around the world, Skype has already gone a long distance towards that objective.

Hamesh Brown enjoys writing about VoIP. See http://www.voipreviewsonline.com/2005/10/skype_review_1.html for another Skype review.

Making PC to Phone VoIP Calls over Dial-Up Internet Connections

Thereรขโ�ฌโ�ขs a lot of hype these days surrounding Internet-based voice communications (VoIP) replacing traditional telephone service. Most of this revolves around companies such as Vonage who coin themselves as the รขโ�ฌห�Broadband Phone Companyรขโ�ฌโ�ข. So what about those of us who donรขโ�ฌโ�ขt have a broadband connection? Just because you donรขโ�ฌโ�ขt have high speed Internet, doesnรขโ�ฌโ�ขt mean that you canรขโ�ฌโ�ขt save a fortune by using VoIP for your long-distance calls. Whilst a broadband connection will usually result in more consistent VoIP call quality, comparable results can be achieved using a dial-up connection provided some simple guidelines are followed.

Shop Around

Not all VoIP service providers support dial-up users. Companies such as Vonage bill themselves as alternatives to traditional telephone service and shy away from the dial-up community (who are tied to those รขโ�ฌห�traditionalรขโ�ฌโ�ข networks to access the Internet). Furthermore, some service providers only support dial-up above a certain speed (e.g., 56Kbp). Two companies whose VoIP softphone applications work well over low speed connections include Callserve and Go2Call.

รขโ�ฌห�Free-upรขโ�ฌโ�ข your System Resources

In order to ensure the highest call quality, close programs that are running in the รขโ�ฌห�backgroundรขโ�ฌโ�ข. For Windows users, these applications can be seen in the taskbar at the bottom right of your screen. รขโ�ฌห�Right-clickรขโ�ฌโ�ข the icons and close those programs that arenรขโ�ฌโ�ขt critical to system security (e.g., donรขโ�ฌโ�ขt close anti-virus software, firewall applications and the like).

If youรขโ�ฌโ�ขre using Windows XP with user switching enabled, log off all users except the one that will be used to make the call. This will prevent the other user identities from running software and/or using your bandwidth while youรขโ�ฌโ�ขre making calls.

รขโ�ฌห�Free Upรขโ�ฌโ�ข your Internet Connection

Given the limited data capacity of dial-up connections, itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs important that you devote as much of your bandwidth as possible to the VoIP softphone application. To achieve maximum call quality, donรขโ�ฌโ�ขt do anything that uses your bandwidth whilst making calls. This includes instant messaging, checking email, using a webcam, browsing the internet, downloading, etc. In Windows, you can look at the two little computers in the bottom right of your taskbar to see whether your connection is being used prior to calling (the little computers illuminate when data is being uploaded and/or downloaded).

Scan your System for Viruses, Spyware, Adware and Malware

Some of these malicious programs can hijack your browser, tie up your internet connection and slow down your system (not to mention seriously invade your privacy!). I recommend AdAware for free scanning and removal of Spyware/Adware. Once youรขโ�ฌโ�ขve checked and cleansed your system of these nasty programs, your virus definition files should be updated to minimize the chances of re-infection.

Use a Headset with an Integrated Boom Microphone

Last but not least, using a headset with a boom microphone should eliminate those annoying voice echoes often associated with PC to Phone calls. Echoes are caused by your microphone detecting the voice coming from your computer speakers and re-transmitting that voice signal back to the person youรขโ�ฌโ�ขre talking to. By using a headset, the voice signals are limited in volume (due to the headset being directly adjacent to your ears) and thus the chances of your microphone รขโ�ฌห�re-transmittingรขโ�ฌโ�ข those voice signals is greatly reduced.

So there you have it. A Lack of high speed Internet neednรขโ�ฌโ�ขt mean a lack of PC to Phone VoIP capability.

Nathan Smith

Nathan is the owner of netphonedirectory.com which deals specifically with PC to Phone and PC to PC VoIP. The site includes a comprehensive directory of PC to Phone service providers as well as information on VoIP and what you need to make inexpensive long-distance telephone calls using your computer

Is Internet Necessary To Deploy VoIP?

Voice over internet protocol is also called IP telephony, Internet telephony or also broad band phone. VoIP internet telephony works in the same manner as data transfer on a network. Protocols that determine the aspects of connection and transfer of data are used to transfer data over the network. The protocol that is used to transfer voice over the IP network is called the Voice over IP or VoIP protocols. The network voice protocol was invented for the ARPANET in 1973. It was an experimental protocol that has now realized into the commercial protocol. VoIP Wireless Phone is the present realization of this experiment.

Intranets and VoIP
The Private branch exchanges were designed to automate the telephone communication systems. With the advent of microprocessors these were used in the PBX and hence it was easier to integrate VoIP as well. Integration of VoIP helped save money as the transmission in the form of IP packets was cheaper than a dedicated connection between two ends.

If you have an intranet and a PBX as well you could enable VoIP by connecting an IP gateway between your PBX and intranet. Thus routing calls through the data line and saving cash. Directing long distance calls and international calls via data lines is an effective way of cutting your bill on communication.

VoIP can be used internally as well over the intranet. The advantage with this is that you need not buy a separate PBX for voice communication. VoIP over the intranet data lines is more predictable as the network traffic and bandwidth is determined in advance. More sophisticated VoIP programs could be used for less data loss, full duplex, real time voice communication

Working of VoIP
Traditional telephony used analog signals. Digital technology made the process more efficient by converting analog signals to digital signals and then compressing them. This increases the speed of transmission and lowers the bandwidth requirement as well. VoIP Equipment uses the Sessions Initiation Protocol or H.323 for defining the communication between devices. H.323 is designed for video conferencing has a wider range of applications when compared to SIP. But SIP is more robust when it comes to voice transmission only.

VoIP Basics the handshaking signals that are shared between the two ends to establish a connection. In the traditional telephone system these were achieved using circuit switching methods. For connection to be established and provide you good voice quality you need a cable modem for your internet connection or a different type of telephone system. High speeds are essential to a voice connection. The connection between the two points is maintained as long as the conversation goes on. The IP packets are transferred between the two points using a real time protocol. Similar to the telephone system, VoIP providers charge you a flat rate according to minute.

Benefits
There are a few Advantages of VoIP that make people adopt this technology.

รขโ�ฌยข Most operating system software now comes with VoIP ability. Application software that provide net based messaging and voice conferencing offer you the ability of a voice chat and even video conferencing. Therefore there is no need of purchasing additional equipment.

รขโ�ฌยข VoIP is beneficial to those who have to make frequent overseas contact or have high call volumes as the cost per call is low when it is over the internet rather than over dedicated telephone lines.

รขโ�ฌยข Large corporations that require collaboration with multiple people can utilize VoIP since the rate is the same for a single connection as well as a multiple connection.

Disadvantages
There are a few issues that prevent general acceptance of VoIP.

รขโ�ฌยข There is a lack of transmission quality during periods of high network congestion. When the bandwidth is limited and network congestion occur IP packets are dropped. This results in poor voice quality and even loss of connection.

รขโ�ฌยข If the network goes down then all means of communication both voice and data is cut off. This results in the reluctance to change over to VoIP

รขโ�ฌยข Calls to emergency services are not yet provided by VoIP. The situation may change as this has been made mandatory by the government.

รขโ�ฌยข There are no directory listings or yellow page listings for VoIP numbers.

What ever the bold promises VoIP offers if it does not deliver on the internet scene it still is an advantage on the intranet scene.

http://www.voiplobby.com is a site for the new and upcoming technology of voice over internet protocol. The various topics dealt with include VoIP basics, Advantages of VoIP, etc. Find out more about this new technology.

http://www.voiplobby.com is a site for the new and upcoming technology of voice over internet protocol. The various topics dealt with include VoIP basics, Advantages of VoIP, etc. Find out more about this new technology.

What Do You Know About VoIP?

What is VoIP

VoIP is an acronym for voice over internet protocol, aka voice over ip phone. A VoIP, in essence, is a computer phone that allows you to make phone calls from your computer to anyone in the world, e.g., PC to PC, PC to phones รขโ�ฌโ�� landlines or cells.

The voice signal converts to data packets and travels across the internet through a VoIP platform, and then converts back to voice at the receiving end of the communication exchange. Leading telecom experts are projecting that 75% of the worldรขโ�ฌโ�ขs communications will be done on VoIP within the next several years.

What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?

You will need a computer with internet access and an inexpensive microphone if your computer does not have one built in. Although most VoIP voice over ip phone providers require high speed internet connections, there are a few that can be used on dial-up connections.

How Can I Place a Call or Receive a Call?

Basically, the same way you would a regular phone, except on your PC. When you download a VoIP voice over ip phone line on your computer, a phone usually appears on your screen. The computer phone acts like any other phone in that you can dial numbers on it from a pad, or click on a contactรขโ�ฌโ�ขs pre-programmed name, and press the call button. You will then hear the phone ringing to the party you have called and can talk to them when they accept the call.

When receiving a call, the phone will ring on your computer and you can click to accept the call and talk, or let it ring (based on the number of rings you have set up) and forward the caller to your voicemail.

What Kind of Features Does a VoIP Phone Have?

Typically a VoIP voice over ip phone not only has audio capabilities, but also three-way calling, text messaging, and contacts list. Some VoIPs even have webcam capabilities. In addition, there is usually a button to click that can indicate to others when you are available, unavailable, away, or off line.

Who Can I Call Using a VoIP Phone?

Most reputable VoIP computer phone providers limit PC to PC calls among their own subscribers for privacy purposes so that the quality of sound is not compromised.

Most reputable VoIP voice over ip phone providers have their own patented technology.

Some VoIP solutions providers require limiting PC to phone landlines or cells to their own subscribers, while others do not.

Advantages of VoIP

รขโ�ฌยข With VoIP computer phones, you have unlimited talk time to anyone in the world from PC to PC for a flat monthly rate

รขโ�ฌยข Most VoIP voice over ip phone providers offer drastically reduced costs for calling PC to landlines

รขโ�ฌยข Most VoIPรขโ�ฌโ�ขs offer reduced costs for calling PC to cell phones, however, prices often vary depending on the cell phone carrier.

รขโ�ฌยข Savings of up to 80% off current phone bills.

What are the Costs for VoIPs?

Typically there is an activation fee which varies between $20.00 to hundreds of dollars, although some are hidden. Monthly fees, after enrollment, varies between $5.00 per month to $99.95 per month. If you do not have a microphone on your computer, you would have to purchase one. Cost is between $5.00 to $40.00.

Things to Watch Out For with VoIP Services

รขโ�ฌยข Hidden costs

รขโ�ฌยข Unsecure lines - meaning anyone can listen to your conversation because of shared servers or open platforms, thus making you vulnerable to viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and unscrupulous hackers, which ultimately can corrupt your computer and create a costly computer crash.

รขโ�ฌยข Inability to be used with dial-up connections

รขโ�ฌยข Public listing of your name and/or phone number

รขโ�ฌยข Many VoIP services have spyware.

Dee Scrip and her close friend Andy Murray operate the website http://www.whypay4calls.com. Where you can experience a 7 day free trial with a secure line on patented technology. NO contracts, obligations, or hassles!

Enhance Your Business Continuity Planning with VoIP Hosted PBX Service

As little as five years ago, the only disasters businesses had to worry about were natural disasters, local environmental problems, and a few single points of telecommunications failures. Today you can add bioterrorism, suitcase nukes, unprecedented numbers of hurricane strikes, and a multitude of other problems to a growing list of risks that have the potential to bring a business to an economic standstill or even cause permanent business failure.

There is only one telecommunications solution that has the flexibility and capability to ensure business continuity and to keep business communications running in a major catastrophe -- VoIP hosted PBX service.

When choosing a VOIP Hosted PBX vendor, a business needs to ensure the vendor's service provides employees a variety of ways to have their incoming calls handled during a crisis, including setting advanced call handling options to follow them wherever they go and access to features that allow them to set up shop at any working telephone number, or - at the very least - to have calls answered by a user's voicemail or the main number's Automated Attendant.

Business continuity planners need to develop plans to protect telecommunications services in the same way they protect their websites and email. The most cost efficient way to accomplish this objective is to outsource the delivery and management of these services to a secure, redundant VoIP Hosted PBX provider. This will enable the business to capitalize on the ubiquity of the Internet to deliver a disaster-proof phone system which is accessible from anywhere an Internet connection is available.

Businesses used to purchase and install PBX phone systems at their physical location and then connect them into phone lines. With this configuration, anything that made the physical space unusable also affected the communications service. In contrast, VOIP Hosted PBX service provides phone service over the Internet from a centralized, secure operations center. Since the service is virtual and not physically located on the business premises, conditions at the customer's physical location do not adversely affect telecommunications service operation and provisioning.

In summary, when it comes to business continuity, Voip Hosted Phone Service provides key advantages over all other systems on the market today:

- No Busy Signal: "Always On" phone service capable of receiving, answering and routing calls during any type of disruption at the physical location.

- Accessible from Anywhere: Users have access to real-time, web-based control of call handling options from any Internet connection around the world.

- Easy Remote Operation: Users can easily turn any working telephone into their office phone, letting them place and receive calls from remote phones while showing the business line ID and billing calls back to the office.

- Centralized Operations: Since VOIP Hosted PBX service integrates all business locations and remote employees together under one cohesive system, if a business has an office in an area affected by a disaster, they can easily direct one of the other office locations to handle all calls being made to the affected location. One receptionist can answer and transfer calls for all company locations.

Bill Casey is the Vice President of Marketing for Reignmaker Communications, Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Reignmaker offers REIGN-FREE Hosted PBX service in 218 markets, covering more than 45 million U.S. households in 35 states. Bill may be contacted at 1-877-VOIP.4U2. http://www.reignmaker.net

VoIP Deals - How to Find Coupons and Discounts on Internet Phone Service or Anything Else!

As with all products and services, it pays to shop around for the best price on VoIP internet phone service before you buy. Many people believe that the best price is obtained by purchasing directly through the VoIP providerรขโ�ฌโ�ขs website. This seems logical, because the company providing the service should be in the best position to offer the lowest price right? Not necessarily. It has been my experience as a savvy internet shopper (about 80% of my purchases for home and business are made online) that most of the time you will get a discount code or rebate if you buy through a third party link. VoIP service is no exception. To get the best VoIP deals, purchasing through a reseller or affiliate link will usually net the biggest savings.

If you are thinking about signing up for VoIP service (or for that matter, purchasing anything on the internet), spend a few extra minutes and try my technique. Youรขโ�ฌโ�ขve got nothing to lose and could save quite a bit of money.

Hereรขโ�ฌโ�ขs how to find the best VoIP deals:
---------------------------------------

1 - Research and compare VoIP service providers. To get you started, here are some of the major players (and most reputable VoIP providers) in the small business and residential VoIP industry right now:

Vonage, Packet8, SunRocket, Voip.net, Lingo, AT&T CallVantage

Hint: A quick way to find easy to read, consolidated information is to Google for terms like "compare VoIP providers", "VoIP comparison" or "VoIP reviews". A quick shortcut would be to visit my website, where you can see side-by-side comparison of several major VoIP providers.

2 - Narrow down your choices from the information you gather. Try to pick 1-3 VoIP providers who offer packages that best meet your needs. If you stick to big name providers like those mentioned above, you can focus more on the features and price they offer and not have to worry too much about quality of service.

3 - Visit the vendorรขโ�ฌโ�ขs official website and note the cost details of the plan you are interested in. Things to consider are setup fee, monthly service fee, shipping charges and cost of any additional equipment you want. Most vendors will give you a basic VoIP adapter for free. You may want to upgrade however, to a multi-port adapter, an adapter/phone combination device, or even a video phone. These items cost extra, but itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs usually cheaper to buy them from the VoIP provider than anywhere else (easier to maintain too, because if the provider sells it he will provide support for it).

4 - With the vendorรขโ�ฌโ�ขs pricing information in hand, go back to Google and start searching for discounts or special offers. Some examples of terms to search for might be "Packet8 coupon", "Vonage rebate" or "VoIP deal". More often than not, you will find links to sites offering special discounts that will save you money. By clicking through the third party link and making a purchase, you get the exact same service with the exact same provider but you get it for less money!

This process might sound crazy to you, but I guarantee you will find a VoIP deal nearly every time! Hereรขโ�ฌโ�ขs a little secret that explains how this works:

Most large companies that have an internet presence promote their products through resellers or affiliate links. Independent website owners partner with the vendor and receive permission to promote the vendors product (this is called affiliate marketing) in exchange for a commission on each sale. It is then up to the affiliate to do all the advertising and promotion. This gives vendors a much cheaper and wider scope of marketing because hundreds (or even thousands) of people are advertising and promoting their products for the price of a small commission.
Because itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs in the vendorรขโ�ฌโ�ขs best interest to help the affiliate make a sale, they offer him/her an incentive (like a discount or coupon to promote), that is not available to the general public. Itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs a cheap and effective way for VoIP providers (and all merchants) to advertise, and everybody wins. The vendor makes a sale, the affiliate gets a paycheck and the consumer gets a discount!

I use this technique for nearly every purchase I make on the internet, and have saved thousands of dollars over the years. Sometimes the savings are small (like free shipping), but many times I save a lot of money through instant coupon discounts and huge rebates.

I used this method when I subscribed to Packet8 VoIP service (a provider I highly recommend) and received just under $100 in rebates by signing up through an affiliate link and purchasing a whole-house Uniden 1868P phone system (an add-on that I am really glad I bought รขโ�ฌโ�� itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs wonderful). Buying through an affiliate link not only saves you money, it also helps support the folks who spend a lot of time and effort creating and sharing tons of great information on the internet. Before signing up for VoIP service, be sure to find a third party link to click through - you will get the best VoIP deal this way and save yourself some money!

ร�ยฉ Copyright 2005, Debbie Jacobsen. All rights reserved.
This article may be used without special permission as long as it remains in original form, including live links.

To learn more about Packet8 VoIP service, visit http://www.savewith8.com. For more information on VoIP internet phone service, visit my blog: http://www.djvoip.blogspot.com Internet Phone Service - The Future is Here.

Make Free International Phone Calls - Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for Beginners

VoIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol is an emerging technology that with the right equipment and a provider, enables voice communications or the audio content of a phone conversation to be transmitted in digital form over the internet. The advantage of this is that a standard telephone line is not required for VoIP.

As VoIP is an ever evolving technology, it is important to familiarize oneself in latest developments prior to making a commitment to a particular phone, provider or setup.

But letรขโ�ฌโ�ขs look at some of the basics and how practically anyone can give this technology a รขโ�ฌห�runรขโ�ฌโ�ข without dipping deep into the pockets.

The Basics
VoIP has a range of options and abilities depending on the service and equipment utilized. These include:
รขโ�ฌยข Only calling other people using the same service;
รขโ�ฌยข Ability to call any phone number including long distance, international, mobiles and of course local;
รขโ�ฌยข Calling directly from a computer using a microphone or VoIP telephone; and
รขโ�ฌยข Calling from an ordinary phone which is plugged into an Analog Telephone Adaptor or ATA.

Equipment Required
Given that this is Voice over Internet, it stands to reason that an internet connection is necessary รขโ�ฌโ�� albeit one of high speed (broadband).

Depending on the service being utilized it may be as simple as a microphone, or a VoIP telephone, or an adaptor that a normal phone can plug into with the adaptor plugging into an Ethernet connection.

So How Can I Make Calls for Free?
There is a range of free VOIP software on the internet. A well know one is Skype at www.skype.com where users can make calls to landlines and mobiles for a fee but call each other for free.

Ok so you see the limitation here. To get free calls the person you wish to contact also needs to be a user of the same service. Whilst this is true, there are ways of obtaining very low cost calls through a number of providers. This said, the free services like Skype are well worthwhile for someone who wishes to experiment at no cost.

Service Providers
Vonage is a major VoIP provider and AT&T are also offering services. There are many others some of which I have listed below with no particular bias:
รขโ�ฌยข 1TouchTone
รขโ�ฌยข AOL Internet Phone Service
รขโ�ฌยข Axvoice
รขโ�ฌยข BroadVoice
รขโ�ฌยข Dialpad
รขโ�ฌยข GalaxyVoice
รขโ�ฌยข Net2Phone

For Australia several websites of VoIP providers are listed below:
รขโ�ฌยข www.engin.com.au
รขโ�ฌยข www.broadip.com.au
รขโ�ฌยข www.faktortel.com.au

VoiPStunt รขโ�ฌโ�� Free International Calls to a Range of Countries At the time of writing, VoiPStunt were providing free software which allows free calls between peers. However they are also providing free international calls to a list of international countries listed below:

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Peru, Portugal, Singapore, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Venezuela.

Now thatรขโ�ฌโ�ขs not a bad list. The catch, a minor one, is that international calls for trial users are limited to one minute. To obtain up to 20 hours of free international calls you will need to top up your account however VoiPStunt state on their website they will not touch these credits so long as you are calling the free destinations. (source รขโ�ฌโ�� www.voipstunt.com).

Current terms and conditions should be examined prior to engaging any service.

Summary
VoIP is an emerging technology with much more to come in the future. Why not enjoy free international and peer phone calls in the meantime.

Author Tim ONeill has an Associate Diploma in Electronic Engineering. For further information, books and VoIP items, visit http://www.voipworking4you.info.

VoIP - Should I or Shouldn't I?

Have you been considering VoIP for your phone service? Are you still on the fence as to whether or not to try this technology?

Are you the type of person who enjoys technology and the benefits you can derive from it? Do you currently have a broadband internet connection? Do you want to continue to use your existing phone? Do you like to save money?

If you answered 'yes' to any of the questions above, you're probably a VoIP candidate.

The service itself is quite good, but not yet as reliable as the plain old telephone service. (POTS) Having said that, with the push towards this technology, the vendors are driven to providing a better service all the time. New advances in the technology itself are being incorporated into the networks on a regular basis. I for one have gone through a couple service upgrades with my own personal VoIP provider. It just keeps getting better and better. With competition heating up, you can rest assured that technology issues will be overcome sooner rather than later.

Ok, you're on the fence and deciding whether or not you should make the change. Let's go over a couple things that you should know before making your purchasing decision.

First up, what type of broadband access do you currently use? If you're using DSL and you're looking to use VoIP as your 'primary' phone service, check with your existing phone provider. Make sure you can still use your DSL without primary phone service being provided by your local phone company. I happen to live in an area where the RBOC does NOT allow for this. Basically, if I use DSL I could use VoIP has a secondary phone line, but I would not be able to cancel my phone service and keep my DSL. DSL without phone service is called 'naked DSL' and is not yet generally available. You can check our site for naked DSL providers. I for one use cable broadband access so the local phone company doesn't even enter the picture.

Next, let's make sure we all understand that VoIP runs over your broadband internet connection. VoIP means Voice over Internet Protocol. Simply put, it runs over the internet and NOT on the copper wires in your existing home telephone jacks. Basically this means that those phone jacks in your house would NOT work with VoIP. Your phone base plugs into an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter). If you want to have multiple handsets through out your home, you could use the cordless systems that come with a base and multiple handsets. I myself use a cordless phone so the phone base plugs into the ATA. This provides me the freedom to use my handset anywhere in the house.

Another point certainly worth mentioning is power and your existing ISP. If the power goes out in your home, your phone doesn't work. If you currently use a cordless phone where the base plugs into an electrical outlet, this same behavior occurs now. Loose power and you loose your phone. In addition, if your ISP (internet service provider) drops service or has an outage, you loose your phone as well. Some make a big deal out of this, but fail to understand that you can setup your service with alternate numbers. I for example, use my cellular phone number as my backup. If my internet connection goes down, anyone trying to call me will be automatically routed to my cellular phone. I never miss a call!

These are just a couple or many points to consider when making the switch. To be honest, it's very simple and painless to switch to VoIP. The best part is that many of the vendors offer trial periods. If you're still on the fence, you can sign up for service and feel comfortable in the fact that you can drop the service if not satisfied. No risk involved.

If you're still in the investigative stage, that's ok too. Visit our web site where we offer many informative articles on VoIP as well as utilities to gauge the speed of your existing broadband connection. Once you're armed with the information you need, we also offer access to a variety of vendors offer great service at a great price.

You don't need to sit on the fence much longer. Get the facts, get the details and choose a vendor that offers you a free trial period.

VoIP can be a great solution for your home or office.

FullService Broadband Provider. Unbiased, informative information on broadband technology made possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. Copyright 2006

VoIP - 3 Ways to Make The Call

Weรขโ�ฌโ�ขre hearing a lot about Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) these days. I for one am a big fan of this technology. Did you know that you could actually use VoIP in 3 different ways? Thatรขโ�ฌโ�ขs right! There are really 3 different ways that you can รขโ�ฌห�make the callรขโ�ฌโ�ข. Ok, you can actually receive the call 3 different ways as well.

First up is probably the most popular. I use this way myself and most of the residential providers out there today use this as well. What is it?

ATA รขโ�ฌโ�� Analog Telephone Adapter

Your normal phone plugs into an ATA that you received from your VoIP provider. This is the most common way to get hooked into VoIP. This device takes care of all the magic that occurs when you make and receive your calls over your broadband connection. Your analog phone signal must be converted to digital to be routed through your broadband connection and this ATA does the job.

IP Phone รขโ�ฌโ�� Internet Protocol Phones

As the name would imply, these are รขโ�ฌห�specialรขโ�ฌโ�ข phones. You wouldnรขโ�ฌโ�ขt know it by looking at them. They look like normal phones. What is different about these phones is the electronics inside them and the fact they donรขโ�ฌโ�ขt take a รขโ�ฌห�regularรขโ�ฌโ�ข phone cable (RJ-11). Instead these phones take an Ethernet cable connection (RJ-45) and also come equipped with the necessary electronics to plug directly into your router.

Computer-to-Computer

This is the oldest and possibly the easiest way to get plugged into VoIP. Here instead of using your normal phone or IP phone to make calls through your broadband connection, you use your computer itself! (You could do this over dial-up, but broadband is certainly better) There are a number of services available that offer no cost or low cost service. Youรขโ�ฌโ�ขll need the software and a microphone to speak into and speakers to hear from and of course your computer and a high-speed internet connection. Some providers offer this service for free when their software is being used on both ends of the call.

Watch out for Wi-Fi (using IP phones) and other advancements in VoIP technology. We truly are on the verge of a major breakthrough in telecommunications. So, what are you waiting for? Make the call!

Provided by the FullService Broadband Provider - http://www.fullservice-broadband-provider We provide unbiased and informative information on broadband and communication products and services. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc. http://www.trighttech.com Copyright 2006

VegaStream - VoIP for Home and Business - Understanding the Difference

Instant messaging worked its way into the corporate space as employees used products such as AOLรขโ�ฌโ�ขs Instant Messaging service as a convenient way to get round email and voicemail over load and to find out whether the person you want to speak to is actually at their desk. In a similar vein, IT research firm Gartner predicts that by 2007 20% of all companies will have adopted plans that accommodate the fact that employees own the notebook PCs they use at work.

However, there is one exception to this trend, and that is Voice over IP (VoIP) or Internet Protocol Telephony (IPT) as it is also known. Companies such as Skype have done much to demonstrate the potential for VoIP to let people talk with each other across the globe for practically no charge. All the major ISPs and search engine sites (Google, Yahoo, and MSN) are rolling out consumer VoIP services. Yet with few exceptions, there is little sign that these consumer services are being used by people in the workplace.

There are a number of technical reasons for this, most notably the potential for consumer VoIP services to compromise the enterpriseรขโ�ฌโ�ข IP network security. However the primary reason is that the demands on the telephone in the office simply cannot be met by the somewhat cumbersome and restricted, point-to-point service offered by consumer VoIP services. Todayรขโ�ฌโ�ขs office voice communication systems feature call forwarding, voice mail, conferencing, hunt groups, hold and divert. These are not widely available in the basic consumer VoIP offerings. Furthermore, the PC-based VoIP offering does not provide the essential and convenient function of simply dialling a 10 to 12-digit number to make a call.

Enterprise VoIP products offer these features, and a whole lot more. With all messages data and real-time communications (such as voice, video and instant messaging) carried over the same IP network, there is opportunity for very rich communications sessions. For example, a colleague sends you an email within which there is an icon that lets you know that the colleague is available to take a call to discuss the content of the message. By clicking that icon, your colleagueรขโ�ฌโ�ขs phone rings and you talk; the colleague could be sitting at a desk anywhere in the organisation, or even at home on a broadband "extension" to the enterprise network, and the phone next to him or her would ring because the IP network knows where he or she is.

Cost is another major reason why VoIP cannot be lifted directly from the home to the workplace. To fully deploy VoIP in the office with all the new features of a converged IP platform, a company will be encouraged to spend money on new desk top devices; just as the consumer will have to buy a sufficiently fast PC and a headset to accommodate a consumer VoIP service. Most finance directors will struggle to sign off a business case to simply replace a serviceable piece of equipment (such as the company phone system) with something that for all intents and purposes does the same thing.

However, by implementing a gateway between their existing telephone equipment and the new VoIP services, businesses can realise the potential for external calls being carried over the Internet at vastly reduced costs compared to using the Public Switched Telephone Network. VoIP gateways convert the signals used by existing telephone equipment into those that can be carried and switched over the Internet. Many businesses are using VoIP gateways to connect to the new generation of IP-based phone companies or to carry calls between company sites for free using its existing wide area IP network.

It is only a matter of time before all communications, including telephony and mobile, are carried over IP and we will not be able to tell the difference between consumer and business VoIP รขโ�ฌโ�� just as we see little difference between a home phone and one in the office today. However, for the time being the two remain distinct propositions and the enterprise must be careful when considering deploying a consumer orientated VoIP service instead of one that is designed for the business need.

Formed in 1998, VegaStream is one of the most experienced players in the industrial VoIP market. The company supplies gateway CPE to both traditional telecommunications carriers and the new generation of Internet telephony service providers. VegaStream also serves the enterprise market through a global network of distributors and resellers supported by regional offices in the UK, USA and Australia. VegaStream is a non-listed UK company. Investors include the management team, Pace Micro Technology PLC and MTI Partners. http://www.vegastream.com

Do You Have Your VoIP/BroadBand Phone Yet?

Broadband VoIP allows you to add a phone line to your home or office with a local phone number in just about any major U.S. city.... and with some vendors also in several countries such as the UK and Israel.

Here are some ways Businesses and families with geographical distances between them can take advantage of BroadBand Phone/VoIP:

1. Parents can add an additional line with a local number so their college son or daughter can always call home without the expense of long distance rates.

2. A family in Florida can bring up a local number in Minnesota where the rest of the family resides. Family members in Minnesota now dial a local number and reach the relatives in Florida with no long distance charges because the call is local for those in Minnesota, and only the party in Florida needs to have broadband service to receive the calls.

3. This technology can also help military families stay connected. VoIP is not restricted by global boundaries. A U.S. soldier in another country with a broadband connection can set up service with unlimited in bound calls that are local to his family in the U.S. His family then can make unlimited calls to him at no cost and his family in the U.S. doesn't need to have broadband access. Plus any calls they make home are either "local" or are made with an unlimited flat rate plan. That saves a ton of money.

4. Traveling executives can also take advantage of VoIP as a portable phone that can be taken along on any business trip. Many hotels will provide broad band access today. Simply plug the IP phone into the broadband connection in the hotel room. Your family and customers can now call on a local number. In addition you can still take advantage of out bound service and make calls from the room as well.

5. Businesses can drastically reduce costs from traditional calling services.... with flat rate plans which cover all of the US & Canada and often including Europe &/or Asia also.

For an easy way to compare available VoIP phone options in your area (US only) browse through the vendor review info available at Broadband Reports. This info is updated frequently with new input from their Forum members. Be advised that not all providers may be included as only those having received a member review will be listed.

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including DS3-Bandwidth.com and Business-VoIP-Solution.com. Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, insights, and ramblings for the masses.

The History of Voice over Internet Protocol

The History of Voice over Internet Protocol By the end of 2006, Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) may account for as much as 25 - 40% of international voice traffic. This prediction is impressive, but it is even more amazing when you consider the relatively short history of voice over internet protocol. It began as a hobby for some people in Israel who were only able to communicate by computer.

Later that year, in 1995, the first company in the history of voice over internet protocol to put a product on the market was Vocaltec. They released Internet Phone Software, which in combination with a home computer, sound card, speakers, microphone and modem allowed users to make a phone call over the internet. However, the people on both ends had to have the same setup, and sound quality was much less than on a normal phone.

In 1998, there were more milestones in the history of voice over internet protocol. Entrepreneurs began to recognize the potential of the technology and soon computer-to-phone and phone-to-phone connections (still using a computer for the transmission) were possible for making voice calls over the internet. The service was available using a phone at a provider's location in North America only.

It required the users to listen to an advertisement at the beginning and end of each phone call, but in exchange their long distance calls were free. In 1998, less than 1% of voice calls were made using voice over internet protocol.

Businesses began to use VOIP over their intranets to help communicate within their company. But with the introduction of switching equipment in 1998 by 3 manufacturing companies, the history of voice over internet protocol took a turn towards the future.

Now VOIP could become more readily available to users at home instead of at a specific facility belonging to the provider. By the year 2000, more than 3% of voice calls were made over the internet using VOIP.

Today, there are both hardware and software options for those interested in business VOIP and for their personal use. You can purchase hardware that will allow you to use your normal phone handset when making a phone call.

You can buy phones that are VOIP ready and need only an internet broadband connection. Or, you can purchase or download software that will let you use your computer instead of a phone, provided that you have speakers, a microphone, and an appropriate sound card.

Many phone companies have begun to offer packages that include local and long distance VOIP calls for a flat monthly fee. With the advent of broadband services, sound quality has become parallel to regular land line phones for the first time in the history of voice over internet protocol. And the number of people using VOIP is only expected to grow.

Van Theodorou will help you slash your telecom expenses by 43% and assist or even become your telecom department at no cost to you. For a free analysis or phone consultation go his site at business long distance

Voip Providers Review--- Choose The Best One For Your Business

Making phone calls applying a broadband Internet connection,known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), is becoming so popular with corporations of each size. The prospect of paying a flat fee for unlimited long-distance phone calls is attractive to each company that has struggled to balance the want to conduct business phone calls with the cost of those calls.

Many companies are finding that installation of VoIP phones is simpler than traditional Private Branch eXchange (PBX) systems, since the desk sets can share the Ethernet cables already in place for the desktop computers. Now, I m going to review 3 most popular Voip Services providers who offer full service products primarily aimed at the small to medium sized business telephone market. Such companies typically support multi-line telephone systems, small PBX gateways and hosted VoIP.

Vonage will bring VoIP service without routing calls through your PC. When you sign higher for its DigitalVoice service, the company gives you a phone number in the area code of your option and sends you a free ashtray-size devices device known as an analog telephone adapter or even ATA. You easily plug the adapter into your network router and attach your phone to the adapter, and you're ready to produce calls. If you like, you are able to plug the adapter to a wall jack, connecting each phone in the home.

For corporations that want extensions and services that are even more closely identified with PBXs uncovered in the corporate globe, Vonage isn't a very good option. Its Microscopic Business Project is built on a lone line, similar to a residential line, and does not provide facilities for multiple extensions, call transfers, administrative functions, and the more tasks virtually all corporate users take for granted. 2 more vendors are better suited for the corporate environment.

Vonage Features:

Equipment required: Broadband telephone adapter, Motorola VT1005V
$30 activation fee.
No contract.
$39.99 termination fee after 14 days
Call waiting, caller ID and conference calling.
911 service

TalkSwitch 48-CVA

The TalkSwitch uses your phone company's existing phone lines and phone numbers to connect to the outside world, but uses your Internet connection to connect to other TalkSwitches in your company's remote offices. This setup is simple to install and lets you keep your existing phone numbers and lines. It also lets you keep your existing phone bills, since your long-distance calls still travel over your phone-company lines.

Where TalkSwitch shines is in its features as a PBX and its ability to connect remote offices and treat them as a single phone system. When two or more TalkSwitches connect through the Internet, the company has a virtual PBX. The offices can make calls to one another by dialing extensions that may be in the same office or at a remote office without incurring long-distance charges.

The same connection can be used to make standard calls to phone numbers that are local to the remote office but long-distance from the calling office. I found this feature worked well, but it requires the person making the call to know whether the number is local to the remote office. That's something many callers won't make the effort to deal with.

TalkSwitch 48-CVA Features:

Price: $1,795
4 lines in
4 VoIP trunks
8 local extensions
8 remote extensions
Expandable to a 16-line, 32-extension phone system by networking up to four 48-CA or 48-CVA units on the LAN
9 Auto Attendants
26 voice mailboxes
Built-in traditional and VoIP trunks for combined network access
Full-featured PBX telephone system
Customer installable and configurable via PC interface
Works with standard analog cordless or corded phones and
TalkSwitch TS 100 phone sets

Packet8 Virtual Office

Packet8 is a service provider. It will bring a "virtual office" by means of a hosted PBX that you are able to attach to from any broadband connection. The equipment consists of 1 DTA and 1 phone for every extension. Minimum configuration for a Packet8 system is 3 extensions, however there appears to be no upper limit to the number of extensions. Every DTA and phone combination costs $100, and there exists a $40 activation fee per line.

Because all the extensions attach to the equivalent PBX, calls to extensions and calls to outside amounts are processed just as they usually are in a corporate office. The phones have a huge LCD with soft-buttons for voicemail, don't disturb, and each feature you would expect in a corporate PBX. I personally discovered the system elementary to utilise however as well incredibly flexible. Phone functions are managed applying the phone's LCD and its buttons, while extension assignment, routing, auto-attendant, and system-related functions are managed through the PBX's Web interface.

Packet8's sound quality was incredibly fantastic. Calls between Packet8 VoIP lines were clear with no noticeable delay. Calls between Packet8 VoIP phones and standard phone lines were equally clear. The quality of the overall system was even more than acceptable.

This is the kind of system that fits any virtual office whose employees require to produce lots of long-distance calls. The Packet8 system is particularly well suited to today's distributed virtual businesses. The fact that all the extensions are section of the equivalent system and operate as a seamless phone system puts a consolidated face on the distributed office.

Packet8 Virtual Office Features:

Price: $40 per extension per month
Setup costs of $100 for equipment and $40 activation fee per line
Unlimited calling within the U.S. and Canada
Full-featured conference bridge for up to 20 participants
Auto-Attendant
Voicemail with message forwarding and e-mail notification
Call transfer and automatic call forwarding
3-way conferencing
Music/messaging on hold
Distinctive ringing for internal/external calls
Caller ID and call-waiting caller ID
Stutter tone notifications
Call park/call pick-up

Rashme Wong has been an Commuciation and Network Analyst for 5 years whose articles on Voip business have appeared on many major Voip websites. You can find more of these at: http://www.1voipphoneservice.info

VoIP is Gaining Popularity in Asia

Internet telephony is now a billions business in Asia and is expected to grow by at least 20 per cent annually. Enterprises who initially wary of VoIP due to reliability and investment seems to have finally overcome their initial resistance. Major countries in Asia such as China, Japan, India and Singapore have taken significant steps for VoIP implementation for enterprises.

Why VoIP is on the Rise?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection. It converts the voice signals into data for transmission over an IP network, and then reconverts the data back to voice signals.

There are several factors tip in the scales in favor of IP telephony. But the primary one is the trend towards a consolidated data and voice infrastructure as organizations look to reduce operational costs.

Also, an increasing need to replace traditional private branch exchange (PBX) systems has pushed businesses to look at alternatives like VoIP. With the current distributed IP phone solution, enterprises do not have to fuss over system breakdowns that once plagued the old PBX.

The implementation of VoIP system allows voice calls to be carried over the companyรขโ�ฌโ�ขs existing data network. The IP phone system has helped to reduce voice traffic and ease the maintenance.

The rise of VoIP among enterprises also because of the high growth of broadband connections to the home, improvements in quality of service, and hook-ups that allow VoIP calls over ordinary telephone handsets rather than clunky PC microphone systems.

VoIP services for now typically promise a significant cost savings, virtually wiping out charges for long distance and international calls. In addition, connecting phone calls over the Internet could eventually open the door to advanced communications services that tie voice together with e-mail, instant messaging and video conferencing.

Edgar Lee is a VoIP consultant at Lantone Communications, VoIP division. A Singapore company that has extensice experiences in cutting-edge VoIP solutions, Lantone Communications is your trusted partner when your organization needs a specialized VoIP Provider in Singapore.

VoIP - A Layman's Look - Should You Or Shouldn't You?

"As business people we manufacture shin pads, or we distribute cat food, or we evangelize, but should we be considering VoIP? Will it make us more money, or save us time?" -Dennis Schooley

So what's all this VoIP hype anyway? I mean we all know that our voice can be delivered to the four corners of the globe over telephone lines. (Actually, I missed that part of second grade math where they taught us that a ball has corners, but everybody says it, so I'll accept it). Alex G. Bell, the second most famous resident of Brantford, Ontario, right after Wayne Gretzky of course, led us down the voice transmission path.

We're also fully aware of the Internet. Otherwise where would we get our sports scores, weather reports, horoscopes, and genealogy fixes. So why do we care about the real-time transmission of our voice, in telephone quality, using Internet protocol (VoIP)?

Presumably the whole concept was created to deliver some benefit to us techno-ignorant dwellers of the house of the masses. As business people we manufacture shin pads, or we distribute cat food, or we evangelize, but should we be considering VoIP? Will it make us money, or save us time? Will it make us more efficient as a Manufacturer, Distributor, or Evangelist? If the answer to those questions is no, then we shouldn't even think about it. So let's explore those questions. After all, it's all about results.

Geoffrey Moore introduced the concept that a product must cross the chasm of market acceptance in the 'Technology Adoption Life Cycle' in his book Crossing the Chasm. In his next book, Inside the Tornado, Moore talks about the tornado of market acceptance that lies like a siren beyond the chasm. It appears that VoIP is clawing up the far wall of the chasm, but we don't know for sure whether it will find that toe hold to crawl out, and catch the swirling tornado winds of fortune. All indicators are that it's going to happen. Dorothy and the Tin Man are holding their breath.

Perhaps the most significant indicator is that the 'business-prevention specialists', a title I usually reserve for lawyers, but in this case is applied affectionately to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), have begun the task of investigating what should be regulated in the world of VoIP. The FCC has already delivered a ruling on a VoIP product offered by AT&T. That fact in itself should make us all take notice that there must be something good coming, or they wouldn't be showing up at the dance to make sure the band isn't too loud.

Larry Stocker, of Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants in Kansas City says, 'if my clients' interest in VoIP is any indicator, then I think there will be a big increase in the provision of the service. We have quadrupled our number of assignments in the last six months alone, for clients that wish to select the right VoIP service, at the right price, from the right supplier. That seems to be a good indicator of market acceptance.

Another good indicator would be the number of suppliers, including the tier-one Telco's that have entered the fray to provide VoIP in their own particular flavor. That fact should cause us pause. It should cause us to challenge the original premise that ร�ยขรขโ��ยฌร�ล�talking over the Internet will be free', and that there will be no long distance cost any more. If that were the case, would all of these big companies - the renowned leaders in the telecom world - be scrambling to get to market to provide the service? Maybe it's just their way of giving back to society. I'm more inclined to think there are huge profits at stake.

And now you say, 'but I've already got the Internet, why isn't it free'. Well first of all, you'll need some kind of device that delivers 'telephone quality' over the Internet. Remember, I said 'real time'. Those $20 microphones just don't do it. In addition, have you ever tried to put someone on hold on the Internet, or call forward, or take a voice message you know, the things that businesses do everyday.

Presumably that's what all these suppliers are running the relay for to sell you that 'stuff' at the end of the race. Whether they sell it to you outright, or whether you rent it from them for a monthly service fee isn't the point. The point is that there is a cost to get access, as well as proper business applications. Included in the cost, which will be recovered through charges to you, are signaling, routing, protocol, and interface technologies. Oops, that's not layman's talk.

Presumably that's what all these suppliers are running the relay for to sell you that 'stuff' at the end of the race.

In addition to the access 'stuff' as a layman would say, there has to be access to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or I would never be able to call my mother. VoIP calls have to terminate on everyday telephone sets because I'm pretty sure my mom doesn't have a VoIP set up at her house. She doesn't have a bankcard, won't stay in a hotel that doesn't have 'real keys', and still loves her dial phone (definitely in Moore's technology buying group called Skeptics or Laggards). There is no way I'll be talking to her over her Internet connection she doesn't have one, and never will. So this VoIP thing will have to access the normal phone system. That's where the FCC and CRTC step in. Their position is that if the PSTN will be accessed, then access fees will have to be paid by the providers. And up goes the cost.

In his book, Implementing Voice Over IP, Bhumip Khasnabish, says "The goals of VoIP implementation are to achieve (a) significant savings in network maintenance and operations costs and (b) rapid rollout of new services."

O.K., so it's not free but there should be 'significant savings' if that holds true. Assuming those savings will be passed on, it should make me more money through cost reduction. Presumably these ร�ยขรขโ��ยฌร�ล�new services' will be designed to save me time, make me more efficient, or provide easier access to my target markets. Just think if one step can be eliminated in the manufacture of shin pads, if distribution channels for cat food are more streamlined, or the Evangelist can find more heathens to convert.

Bill Webster, another Schooley Mitchell consultant in Calgary, Alberta says, "the key is to assess the reliability and quality of service. If the quality is what you need, and by the way, it's improving every day, then a cost-benefit analysis is required comparing your current access to VoIP. Often times VoIP is the winner. As new services with VoIP become available over time, that win will be even more evident for the regular business person."

So there you have it. Should you or shouldn't you, as the title queries? It seems that the answer is akin to; should I or shouldn't I, when Alexander Graham introduced the telephone concept in the first place. I'm pretty sure that everyone, at least those that are alive today, eventually got one. Bell had to deal with laggards too.

It seems that this is the way the market will develop if the supply and regulatory indicators hold true. VoIP is not out of the chasm yet, but when this many suppliers enter the arena, then functionality is driven up to deliver the 'better mouse trap', price is driven down through competitive alternatives, reliability (the bugs are worked out) is driven up by the same forces, and you have emergence.

It seems that if you take Webster's advice and prepare the proper cost-benefit analysis, you're likely going to be getting your kite ready for the VoIP tornado.

Copyright Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants 2004

Dennis Schooley is the Founder of Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants, a Professional Services Franchise Company. He writes for publication, as well as for http://schooleymitchell.blogging,com and http://franchises.blogging.com, in the subject areas of Franchising, and Technology for the Layman. http://www.schooleymitchell.com, 888-311-6477, dschooley@schooleymitchell.com.

Packet8 Review

Packet8 internet phone service is one of the top VoIP service providers in the United States and Canada. They are owned by 8X8, Inc., which is a U.S. company located in Santa Clara, CA. In business since 1987, 8X8 has made a significant contribution to the development and advancement of broadband phone technology.

VoIP (voice over internet protocol) phone service made its public debut in 1995, and 8X8 introduced Packet8 broadband phone service for residential use in 2002. In 2004, Packet8 introduced internet phone service for small to medium businesses, and was also the first VoIP provider to deliver video phone service. Using technologies that they have developed and patented themselves, Packet8 has become one of todayรขโ�ฌโ�ขs best VoIP providers in terms of service, reliability, and market share. As a Packet8 user for over a year now, I can personally attest to their ongoing commitment to constant improvement and quality service.

Offering unlimited local and long distance service within the US and Canada for $19.95 per month, Packet8 is one of the lowest cost internet phone service providers in the USA. Great features like voicemail, voicemail to email, call forwarding, call waiting, caller ID, call return, and call blocking are available for free; and this is just a small sampling of the free features they give you! They are continually adding service enhancements and new features, all designed to work seamlessly with the Uniden 1868P whole house phone system as well as their videophone. Enhancements planned for summer 2006 are caller ID with name and a new soft phone service called Packet8 Softalk. A soft phone is a PC-based telephone; most of the larger VoIP carriers are now offering softphone service due to the huge popularity of the service that Skype is now famous for.

Packet 8รขโ�ฌโ�ขs main competitors are Vonage, AT&T CallVantage and VoIP service offered by local cable television providers. At $24.99 per month for Vonage unlimited residential service and $29.99 per month for unlimited local and long distance calling with AT&T, Packet8 is the clear leader when it comes to price. Unlimited internet phone service offered by cable companies is currently averaging around $40 per month, depending on the cable provider (cable companies often refer to VoIP telephony as "digital phone service"). All these VoIP carriers offer similar free features and unlimited local and long distance within the USA and Canada. Vonage now includes free calls to Italy, France, Spain, UK and Ireland in their unlimited plan, which makes Vonage service the better buy if you often call these countries.

Although VoIP usage statistics vary, it is estimated that there are around 48 million internet phone users today. Within the next 5 years the number of people using VoIP is projected to grow to 100 million. Due to the portability of VoIP, the tremendous cost savings vs. traditional telephone "land lines", and the included features available for free รขโ�ฌโ�� VoIP is here to stay.

VoIP is so easy to install and use that the hardest thing about broadband phone service is choosing a provider. No matter which VoIP service provider you choose, you canรขโ�ฌโ�ขt go wrong as long as you stick with an established, progressive company that offers excellent customer service and has a reputation for quality. Depending on your needs, Packet8 VoIP service may or may not be the perfect fit for you, but it is definitely worth considering.

To learn more about Packet8 VoIP: Save With 8

Not yet ready for VoIP, but want to save money on phone service? Check out some good long distance alternatives at http://www.long-distance-savings.com.

VoIP Vulnerabilities Still Apparent

With the use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) by all reports rapidly expanding, several recent cases have exposed serious vulnerabilities with the service. However fraud is an everyday occurrence so I for one wouldnรขโ�ฌโ�ขt base my decision solely on these events.

As per previous articles I have written and various on my "About VoIP Information" website, security vulnerabilities for VoIP do exist and have been and continue to be seriously examined and worked through by industry. However two recent cases act as a reminder that all holes have not been closed.

In Australia it has been reported that a very public VoIP provider Engin had itรขโ�ฌโ�ขs Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software cracked by a hacker who publicly exposed how to obtain details of other customerรขโ�ฌโ�ขs orders in a post on the broadband site Whirlpool. Engin reportedly resolved the problem the next morning before any advantage was gained.

Engin appeared very honest and forthright admitting the problem and fixes that would be put in place with blame attributed to a third party programming consultancy responsible for programming of the CRM. Despite credit card details apparently not recorded in the area that became accessible, it does highlight the ease at which confidential personal information can be accessed, not something that is usually considered a security problem related to VoIP.

In the very public case two arrests have been made in early June for breaking into a New York companies network and spoofing VoIP traffic to its service provider. Wholesale phone connections were then offered at discount rates in a pseudo-service provider manner with a resultant 100% profit margin for the fraudsters.

TMCnet Executive Editor Robert Lui reported that one security expert advised the problem could have been easily adverted. It is suggested that multiple security products are required for securing VoIP networks which to some degree is in line with the layered or defence in depth security principle ie more layers of security making it more difficult to get through.

Despite these two reported cases and significant discussion and reporting about a diverse range of security considerations and concerns, it must be remembered that fraud is part of everyday life and regardless of how many checks and balances are put in place, a determined criminal will eventually be successful. Such is the case with credit cards for example, passports and other identification documents. The message in my view to take away is review the service providers performance and virtually by the numbers game, assuming all advisable security precautions are adhered to, it would be unlucky to be a victim of hacking.

The Author has an Associate Diploma in Electronic Engineering. For further information, books or VoIP items, please visit All About Voice Over Internet Protocol.

About VOIP

VOIP is a hot topic these days, but what exacty is VOIP and VOIP service? It is a method of using the internet to carry phone calls. The term, "VOIP", stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol.

Why use a VOIP service? Probably cost is one of the main considerations as VOIP is less expensive than many other telephone service options. The cost of VOIP service is similar to the cost of sending email. You must pay to have an internet service, but after that, your usage is free. In some instances, savings of up to 90% over regular long distance and other telephone services can be recognized.

Can my business use VOIP service? Anybody with an internet connection has the basic capability to use a VOIP service, and benefit from the cost savings associated with VOIP.

Can VOIP be used for long distance calls, and how about international long distance? Certainly. In fact, that is one of the primary arguments in favor of any VOIP service. The savings can be quite significant when a VOIP service is used for business or personal long distance calls. If you are now making international long distance calls for businesss or personal reasons, you should see immediate savings on your long distance telephone charges.

Is VOIP legal. Yes, it is a legal and acceptable alternative to standard telephone and long distance calling systems.

Will DSL or Broadband access enhance my VOIP service? Absoulutely. high speed internet services, such as DSL or Broadband, allow the use of multiple phone lines. This would be of particular importance to a business user.

Would VOIP work for an internal business network? As a matter of fact, many businesses have used it successfully for exactly that purpose, in addition to using it for external business contacts.

The author is retired from the Army after 21 years of service. He has worked as an accountant, purchasing agent, optical lab manager, restaurant manager, instructor and long-haul, over-the-road truck driver. He has been a member of Mensa for several years, and has written and published poetry, essays, and articles on various subjects for the last 40 years. He has been an active internet marketer since 2000, and now makes his living online. He has an online store specializing in communications products at http://texasprepaidcellular.com

Advanced Features In A Virtual PBX Phone System

A Virtual PBX Phone System provides the functionality of a conventional PBX without the need for installing any equipment. This service is provided by an Application Service Provider (ASP). A client need not purchase or install any PBX equipments. Instead it is given access to the PBX system maintained at service providerรขโ�ฌโ�ขs site. The service provider can add new features, which are instantly made available to all the clients. Some of the advanced features that one can identify a Virtual PBX system are fault tolerance and scalability.

A PBX system forms a critical component for a companyรขโ�ฌโ�ขs communication and customer care services. Any failure in this system can have catastrophic results in the companyรขโ�ฌโ�ขs operations. A PBX system should therefore be fault tolerant to the maximum extent. A Virtual or Hosted PBX system operates through a service provider. A Virtual PBX service provider caters to a number of companies. To provide the necessary quality of service and fault tolerance, the service provider utilizes multiple PBX systems and redundant components. These systems come with automatic fail-over feature to enforce maximum fault tolerance.

One of the greatest limitations when it comes to a conventional PBX system is its limited size. Companies usually outgrow their systemรขโ�ฌโ�ขs capacity. More employees mean more phone connections. A typical growing company has to upgrade its PBX system every two years. Some companies install large expensive systems without utilizing their full capacity. Large amounts are thus spent on systems whose full capacity would be utilized in the future. However, many systems tend to get outdated by the time their full capacity should be utilized.

The relative scalability of a hosted PBX phone system solves the problems related to over and under capacity. The service is provided according to the number of users, and not on the size of system. The number of lines and extension numbers are allotted according to the current requirement of the company. A company therefore needs to pay only according to its usage. Moreover, since the system is operated by a service provider, there is no problems related to under or over utilization of the system capacity.

This article is written for AccessDirect, providers of Unified Messaging, Voice Mail, and Hosted PBX Phone services with local and toll free numbers. Visit us at www.messagingservice.com

AccessDirect, providers of Unified Messaging, Voice Mail, and Hosted PBX Phone services with local and toll free numbers.