Short for Voice over Internet Protocol,
a category of hardware and software that enables people to use the as the internet transmission medium for telephone calls by sending voice data in packets using IP rather than by traditional circuit transmissions
Also, because VoIPs use digital, internet technology many new features and services that used to be impossible, or very expensive using
traditional telephone technology, become available.
Many multiplayer videogames also include a VOIP inside the game to allow players to talk to each other ingame, with the touch of a button. This can also save people time as they don't have to download another VOIP service.
Specialty appliances such as microphones or headphones are not necessary.
Examples:
Low cost - One of the main advantages of VoIP is the low cost. If you have a fast Internet connection you can make PC-to-PC phone calls anywhere in the world for free.
Portability - Another advantage of VoIP is portability. You can make and receive phone calls wherever there is a broadband connection simply by signing in to your VoIP account.
Disadvantages:
Needs Electric Power - During a blackout a regular phone is kept in service by the current supplied through the phone line.
Limited Emergency Calls - Another major concern involves emergency 911 calls. Traditional phone equipment can trace your location. Emergency calls are diverted to the nearest call center where the operator can see your location in case you can't talk.
May drop calls - If your internet connection is poor, calls may be dropped or voice quality may be very poor, whereas usually you would have a good clear voice on a phone and calls would be dropped less often.
a category of hardware and software that enables people to use the as the internet transmission medium for telephone calls by sending voice data in packets using IP rather than by traditional circuit transmissions
Also, because VoIPs use digital, internet technology many new features and services that used to be impossible, or very expensive using
traditional telephone technology, become available.
Many multiplayer videogames also include a VOIP inside the game to allow players to talk to each other ingame, with the touch of a button. This can also save people time as they don't have to download another VOIP service.
Specialty appliances such as microphones or headphones are not necessary.
Examples:
- Skype
- Ventrilo
- Teamspeak
Low cost - One of the main advantages of VoIP is the low cost. If you have a fast Internet connection you can make PC-to-PC phone calls anywhere in the world for free.
Portability - Another advantage of VoIP is portability. You can make and receive phone calls wherever there is a broadband connection simply by signing in to your VoIP account.
Disadvantages:
Needs Electric Power - During a blackout a regular phone is kept in service by the current supplied through the phone line.
Limited Emergency Calls - Another major concern involves emergency 911 calls. Traditional phone equipment can trace your location. Emergency calls are diverted to the nearest call center where the operator can see your location in case you can't talk.
May drop calls - If your internet connection is poor, calls may be dropped or voice quality may be very poor, whereas usually you would have a good clear voice on a phone and calls would be dropped less often.