What is VoIP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a great technology that allows you to make and receive telephone calls over the Internet and has been in the mainstream now for going on 9 years. It can also be referred to as an Internet Phone. VoIP enables you to make cheap telephone calls over a broadband Internet connection, (usually a DSL, broadband cable connection, or T1), instead of using your regular telephone service. You can connect to regular telephone numbers locally or in other parts of the US or anywhere else in the world, usually all for one low price by eliminating long distance fees by using a VoIP service from an “Interconnected VoIP Provider”, (which most VoIP providers are). The savings can be substantial, with lower fees and taxes levied by traditional telephone carriers. Plus, most VoIP providers offer services with “unlimited” calling plans and an array of features all for one monthly fee.
What are the benefits of VoIP?
First and foremost more for less money. Many VoIP providers have plans that allow unlimited calls in the continental US and Canada all for one low monthly fee. In addition, added features such as Voice Mail, Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, a web based control panel, Voicemail received as Email, Advanced Call Forwarding features, etc., are added at no additional cost. Plus, International rates are a lot less than traditional telephone companies. You are not limited to just a certain local’s numbers, but can even choose one from another state. In addition, you can add virtual numbers from other areas that will ring in on your primary number. So, the benefits of VoIP are:
- Lower monthly telephone bills; cheap Long Distance and cheap calls.
- Unlimited monthly calling to certain locations eliminating long distance charges and plans with unlimited International calling.
- Additional features; all included in your one monthly flat rate.
- Lower prices on International calling.
- Virtual numbers; numbers that ring in on a primary number and can be from other areas, even other states.
- Portability (LNP), or the ability to take your phone service with you.
- HD quality voice for crystal clear calling.
Small businesses can benefit greatly from VoIP.
Small businesses are such great candidates for VoIP that it would be hard to present an argument against getting a VoIP service. It’s not just the unlimited long distance calls (US and Canadian) that are the primary motivation, it is also all the advanced features that are part of many provider’s service. Getting a state of the art communications system, one that up until now would cost several hundreds of dollars a month with a large initial outlay, for under fifty dollars a month is incredible (and with very little upfront cost).
Adding a VoIP line or two can greatly add to a small business’s communications features, save money and increase revenue. Consider adding a line, as a partial solution, keeping a regular copper line, especially if you fax heavily or use DSL.