For many years we have relied on telephone systems which are connected to copper wire to make voice communication. But thanks to fast advancement in technology, handsets, and copper wires are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Today, it is possible to make a phone call from anywhere using an internet connected handset, computer, and voice over IP. Simply put, VoIP phone systems utilize a technology which converts human voice into a digital signal, which makes it possible to make a call directly from your VoIP, computer or other devices. What distinguishes IP phone systems from traditional telephone systems is that they are delivered via the internet. VoIP is also popularly referred to as internet telephony, IP telephony, or broadband telephony. In this article, we are going to look at what is VoIP and how it works. 

What is VoIP?  

VoIP is a type of technology which allows you to make cheap phone calls and receive calls over the internet. Instead of using your normal telephone service, you will use broadband internet to make or receive phone calls. Voice over IP allows modern communication technologies such as telephones, smartphones, voice and video conferencing, and email to be consolidated using a unified communication system. For Voice over IP to function properly, it is a requirement you use high-speed internet connection like T1, DSL, or broadband cable connection. It is possible to connect to local telephone numbers or other countries such as Canada or the US, usually for a low fee thus reducing the cost of long distance phone calls. Digital IP-based telephone service utilizes protocols like Skinny Client Control Protocol (SCCP) and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). 

How does VoIP work?  

Voice over IP allows traditional telephony services to operate via computer networks with packet-switched protocols. Packet-switched Voice over Internet Protocol packets audio into packets, which are then transmitted over a VoIP-compatible network like LAN (Local Area Network). By eradicating the need for circuit-switched networks for audio, Voice over IP reduces the cost of network infrastructure. This enables service providers to offer audio services over their private networks and broadband, thus allowing enterprises to run a data network and a single voice. IT monitoring of VoIP is important in ensuring call quality. Office networking management ensures that VoIP phone systems are fully optimized for your enterprise. 

2 Different ways to place a phone call with VoIP  

   • ATA  

The most common and simplest way to make a phone call over Voice over IP is through analog telephone adaptor or ATA. The ATA is used to convert analog to digital. It also allows you to connect your ordinary phone to your internet connection or your computer so that you can make a phone call. 

   • IP Phones  

IP phones look just like your ordinary phone with a cradle, buttons, and handset. The difference between IP phones and your normal phone is that they do not have standard RJ-11 phone calls but RJ-45 Ethernet connector. Once you connect IP phones to your router and have the necessary hardware, you can make IP phone calls.