Feature: A GUIDE: Voice over IP

The whys and wherefores of VOIP. What, if anything, can it do for you?

WHAT IS VoIP?: In simple terms it's talking over the Internet either using a normal telephone handset or PC.

HOW DOES IT WORK?: When you make a phone call using VoIP, it means that your voice is sent over the Internet rather than via traditional phone circuits. The technology does this by turning the sounds you make into little digital packets and sending them to the other receiver. When they reach their destination, they turn back into sound. The person that you are talking to does not need to be on VoIP, broadband or the internet. VoIP can be used to call telephones in the normal way, both in the UK and abroad, in the same way as a normal telephone line.

DO I NEED TO REPLACE MY EXISITING PHONE?: No, there are different flavours of offerings from different ISPs so we can't speak for everyone, but using BT as an example, all you have to do is plug in a special adapter into the back of the phone which will connect you to broadband. You can then start making calls straight away. BT's service is compatible with most broadband set-ups. You'll just need a spare touch-tone telephone. You don't even need your PC turned on to use it, although if you want, you can still surf at the same time.

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?: These vary from provider to provider, but all should work out cheaper than a fixed line or mobile. If you have broadband and need an extra voice line for the kids or work, Broadband Voice offers a cost-effective alternative to installing an extra line or buying another mobile. By using VoIP, substantial savings can be made compared with using an extra fixed line or mobile, particularly when calling abroad.

IS VoIP HERE TO STAY?: Definitely. It is taking off in the Far East and the US and now it's available here in the UK. Just like the introduction of the Internet and mobiles, which we now could not do without, it will stay and be improved upon like most technology whilst offering us cost savings.

Provided by BT

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