What Does VoIP Mean?

You can use your computer to make phone calls using VoIP technology.

VoIP---or voice over Internet Protocol---is a technology that uses a broadband Internet connection to enable voice calls without a standard phone line.

Function

VoIP technology converts your voice into a digital signal that travels over the Internet.

Requirements

VoIP services require a computer, a high-speed Internet connection, and a specialized phone or an adapter connected to a traditional phone.

Benefits

Some providers of VoIP let you make free calls to other subscribers.

Features

Major advantages of VoIP service are the advanced features--such as a web-based control panel and call hunting and forwarding options--it offers over a traditional phone line.

Considerations

VoIP has disadvantages, though. It may not offer directory assistance and direct connections to emergency service and it may not be available during power outages.

References

• FCC: VoIP
• VoIP: Features