Importance of VoIP
VoIP, or Voice-over-Internet Protocol, is a technology that allows you to make phone calls over the Internet, rather than using traditional phone lines. When VoIP was first made available, VoIP users had to use a headset plugged into a computer, but more recent technology allows users to make calls using traditional telephones.
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Features
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VoIP gives users control over features, such as call waiting, forwarding and voicemail, letting them turn each feature on and off and tweak the settings according to their needs. You can turn call waiting on when you expect an important call, but turn it off so you're not interrupted when you call mom on her birthday. You can forward business calls to a home phone for the weekend or send them to your cell when you are on a business trip. All of these features give users more flexibility in their communication and open the door for more innovation as wireless cell phone technology evolves.
Low Cost
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Since the phone calls are made over the Internet, the base price for VoIP is often less than that of traditional phone lines. A local call will cost the same as one made across the country, saving even more money. And while businesses still pay a monthly service fee, the IT department can often run the system because it is computer-related, saving the cost of paying an external company an additional monthly maintenance charge. Another impact of the low cost is that people can make long-distance calls, which would be cost-prohibitive on other technology. People are also be more able to work from remote locations and keep in touch with relatives who live in other countries.
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Integrates with Other Technology
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Since the technology is digital, it integrates with other computer technology. You can set it to automatically send you an email or a text message when you have a voicemail message, or you can have voicemail messages sent to your email address. With a personal account, you can forward the voice message to others and you can check your voicemail from the Internet. Business VoIP provides even more customization options, especially if you have more than one office. You can forward calls from one office to another without the callers being aware of it.
The Future
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As more and more people have smart phones with wireless Internet connections, VoIP will give consumers many options for wireless phone calls, according to Tom Kershaw, vice president of VoIP services at VeriSign. VoIP calls made from an Internet-enabled smart phone will cost much less than cell phone calls and VoIP systems will allow you to choose who can reach you at one of several phone numbers at various times, so your family members can always reach you but you can avoid business calls during leisure time.
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References
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