Home
>
VOIP
>
Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?

Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?

VoIP allows users to make phone calls using their high-speed Internet connection. This translates into free, or very low cost long-distance calling. Because VoIP uses the power of the Internet, traditional phone companies are left completely out of the loop. Of course, now that the idea of VoIP is catching on more and more, traditional phone companies are developing and offering their own VoIP options so as not to be left out. From the consumer's point of view, this competition is keeping options open and pricing low. For businesses, this is particularly good news, since many VoIP providers will want the business of business--this is a huge market, which providers are aware, of, so the savvy businessperson will take advantage of this, conduct thorough research, and seek out the best possible option to meet the company's needs.

What are the Pros to Using VoIP?

Cost is a number one factor. If your business does a high volume of long distance calling, this can be an extremely affordable way to go. Another positive is that the future of long distance calling is VoIP. As time passes, more and more options will be available and the market will become even more competitive. It is also easy to use, although a business set-up will be more complicated than a home set-up.

What are the Cons?

One disadvantage that many users report is that there tends to be an "echo" when using VoIP. How much of a disadvantage this is may depend on the user. There can also be a slight lag at the beginning of the conversation.

Another potential disadvantage is that the technology is fairly new. As VoIP becomes standard, improvements will take place. In the meantime, it is up to each business to determine if this is a way to go.

Also, because VoIP operates through your Internet connection, should you lose Internet service for whatever reason or power, you will not have phone access until the service or power is restored.

Is VoIP Right for my Business?

As with any business decision, you should examine your needs and available services before making a purchasing decision. VoIP may produce substantial savings, but it could also produce substantial headaches. Whether or not your company can navigate potential glitches with minimal interruption is something you need to determine. Many traditional service providers offer competitive pricing, and the security of the existing structure may not be worth the potential problems with VoIP. It is also necessary to price and compare the technical requirements; will your existing structure support VoIP, or will the investment in technology offset the potential savings?

VoIP Business Options

On the bright side, because VoIP is a growing service, many companies provide business solutions and the offers and pricing are competitive. One thing to consider as you compare options is contract terms. Because the technology is expanding, it is wise to avoid any long- term contract, as a better option may come along in the meantime. A variety of companies offer business solutions. The following list is just a few:

? Sprint:
http://www.sprint.com/business/products/categories/voip.jsp

? Lingo:
http://www.lingo.com/voip/business/unlimited_internet_phone_ service.jsp

? Quest:
http://www.qwest.com/largebusiness/products/voip/

? Pipex: http://www.pipex.net/products/voip/

How to Get Set Up for VoIP The technology required will depend on the service you choose. There are three types of VoIP methods.

? ATA stands for analog telephone adaptor. It connects to your computer or Internet connection and uses regular phone.

? IP phones are special phones that look like traditional phones, but they connect with an Ethernet connector.

? Computer-to-computer is an easy way to use VoIP and long distance calls are free; you only pay for the software. While this method can work in a business setting, it may not be the best solution, even though it is very cost effective.

VoIP requires a high-speed Internet connection, and for business purposes, your set-up needs to be able to handle the additional use that VoIP incurs. Essentially, there is no "one size fits all" set-up guide for business VoIP options. The service you choose and your company's individual requirements will determine what you will need.

Andrew Kelly is a Technology Consultant who helps keep businesses at the leading edge of technology.

For more great tips and resources on everything VoIP visit: voip solutions for your business

Elk Grove (east OF 53) limousine shuttle .. Lockport Chicago limo O’Hare

In The News:

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

A humanoid robot named CUE6 has got game. The basketball-playing robot, produced by Toyota, claimed a Guinness World Record for longest shot.

With electronic signatures becoming more common, Kurt the CyberGuy explains how to produce your digital John Hancock for online documents.

Kurt the CyberGuy walks through steps he recommends immediately taking after getting new electronics — like phones or TVs — as gifts this holiday season.

When speaking becomes physically challenging, you can preserve your unique voice using Apple's Personal Voice and Live Speech technology.

Google Maps is deleting location history soon. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson shows you how to back it up before it's gone.

iOS 18.2 lets AirTag owners securely share item locations with trusted individuals. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson examines the powerful new feature.

The FBI is warning timeshare owners of a telemarketing scam tied to a Mexican drug cartel. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson provides steps to stay safe.

Protecting your home network includes securing your router, just like your phone or laptop. Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson reveals six ways to protect your Wi-Fi router from hackers.

Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson: ConnectOnCall breach leaks sensitive data of 910,000+ patients.

Rising elder scams: How to recognize them and protect yourself and your loved ones. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson helps you outsmart the scammers.

There are common habits and oversights that could leave your financial information vulnerable to cybercriminals, according to Kurt the CyberGuy.

Counting calories just got easier with The Drop, the world's first automated nutrition tracker using advanced computer vision and artificial intelligence.

A virtual private network can help ensure your information remains security and your privacy remains intact. Kurt the CyberGuy explains.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

Artificial intelligence-based cameras are giving air defense operators unprecedented capabilities in monitoring and protecting airspace.

Apple's iOS 18.1 Inactivity Reboot automatically reboots your iPhone if it hasn't been used or unlocked for more than three days, providing better data protection.

An inventor designed rooftop solar panels for a Tesla that draws solar energy while the car is parked, adding travel mileage without plugging in.

There are currently no laws governing what artificial intelligence can and cannot do with the information it gathers; here are 10 things to avoid telling AI chatbots to keep yourself safe.

A credit union with over 240,000 members recently revealed it was targeted by cybercriminals, resulting in a data breach that was part of a two-month attack by hackers.

Scammers have become skilled at creating convincing fake websites that can easily fool unsuspecting users. The CyberGuy offers tips to protect yourself.

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future.

CAPTCHAs, which are used by websites to confirm whether users are people or bots, are harmless, but hackers are using them to infect PCs with malware.

Hackers recently leaked personal information of about 500,000 Americans and stole patient medical records that included lab results and insurance details.

The holiday season sees a rise in mobile shopping scams. Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson helps you learn how to stay safe.

Voip - Voice Over IP and Business: Is It For You?

VOIP