Voice over IP - that is, voice delivered using
the Internet Protocol is a term used in IP telephony for
a set of facilities for managing the delivery of voice
information using the Internet Protocol (IP). In
general, this means sending voice information in digital
form in discrete packets rather than in the traditional
circuit-committed protocols of the public switched
telephone network (PSTN). A major advantage of VOIP and
Internet telephony is that it avoids the tolls charged
by ordinary telephone service.
Below are some frequent asked questions about VoIP.
•
How can calls be placed using VoIP?
•
What kind of equipment or accessories do I need
to use this service?
•
Is there a difference between making a local
call and a long distant call?
•
If I have a internet VoIP provider already, who
can I call?
•
What are some advantages of using VoIP compared to using regular
phones?
•
Does my computer have to be on in order for calls to be made?
•
How do I know when I receive a VoIP phone call?
How can calls be placed
using VoIP?
Depending on what service you go with, one way to
place a VoIP call is by using an adapter that connects
your phone to a high speed internet connection, and then
by picking up your phone and dialing the number. The
call will be routed through your phone company to a VoIP
provider where it goes over the internet to the called
party's local telephone company. Another way to
use this service is by connecting a microphone into your
computer and by calling with your computer. IN-Call
offers a
Super USB Phone that connects to your computer so
you can make calls just like a regular phone, but by
using the computer instead of your local phone company.
By making calls through your computer, the call will be
able to bypass the telephone company and go directly
through your Cable/DSL modem.
What kind of equipment or
accessories do I need to use this service?
A broadband connection is high recommended, but
IN-Call has revolutionize VoIP by allowing people on 56k
to use the service. Other than a 56k or higher internet
connection, you will need to purchase a
VoIP
Router or a
Super
USB phone. A inexpensive microphone may also be
purchase, which allows you to make phone calls directly
from the computer.
*Keep in mind all of these equipment depend on the
VoIP service provider that you go with.
Is there a difference
between making a local VoIP call and a long distant VoIP
call?
Some VoIP Service Provider offer their service for
free, but mostly only when you make a call from from a
subscriber to another subscriber. Some VoIP provider may
allow you to call anywhere in the world, but you first
have to dial a number in your area code. This means that
people who are calling you may incur long distance
charges depending on their area code and service. On the
other hand, some service provider charge for making
phone calls outside of the area code, for example,
making international phone calls. These prices are
usually lower than making phone calls with the regular
phone line.
If I have a internet VoIP
provider already, who can I call?
Depending on your service, you may be limited to
calls within your area code, or you may be able to make
a phone call anywhere in the world. Calls can be made to
local phones, mobile phones, or even the other person's
computer phone. The person that you are calling usually
do not need any special equipment, unless both of you
are taking advantage of making free international phone
calls by purchasing 2 VoIP Gateways.
What are some advantages of
making calls through a VoIP phone compared to using regular
phones?
VoIP calls are less expensive and does not require
you to have a phone line. Making phone calls through the
internet is becoming a money saver for companies. With
the price drop in broadband connection, more people are
able to afford fast internet connection. By using that
internet connection, people can make calls
internationally for less than a penny. Please check out
our current rates
list for more details.
Does my computer have to be on in order for calls to be made?
Depending on your service provider and the equipment
you have, your computer may need to be on or not; for
example, if you are using a Super USB Phone, which makes
phone calls through the computer, then you will need to
leave the computer on to make calls. If you are using a
LAN Phone with one of our gateways.
How do I know when I receive a VoIP phone call?
Calls received through the computer will show up on
your computer. If you are using our Super USB Phone,
then you will hear a ringing sound coming from you
computer. Calls that are made to cell phones will be
just like regular calls. You will hear the ring when you
receive the call.
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