VOIP is an anagram for Voice over Internet Protocol. Voice over Internet Protocol is basically the transmitting of voice conversations over an Internet connection. When Internet phone technology was originally developed and offered to the public, more businesses rather than homes took notice of it. However, that is a far contrast to the state of VOIP today as it is a growing commonality in both homes and businesses.

Why Choose VOIP?
Many homes and businesses opt to use Voice over IP phone services because of its ease, reliability, and functionality. With the use of Internet telephony incoming phone calls from any location can be immediately routed to any VOIP phone within the network. Each VOIP telephone in the network may be connected in different locations. They will function just as if you are at home or the office no matter where you are, as long as you have an Internet connection.

The use of Internet phones and the VOIP network allows users to make and receive local telephone calls no matter where in the world they are located. With this VOIP technology, one may even travel internationally and successfully experience local telephone calls with their VOIP telephone and any Internet connection. This makes VOIP very appealing to large companies that have a large call center staff.

VOIP Integrates Easily With Other Internet Services
Another benefit to the VOIP service is that the associated telephones can usually integrate with almost any other service that is transmitted via the Internet. This functionality is one of the main reasons businesses choose to switch from traditional telephone lines to VOIP services. Video conferencing, instant messaging, file exchanges, and audio conferencing are all made possible with these phones. Additionally, address books and “online” status is made available to users.

Free Internet Calling
A perk that has drawn many personal users to VOIP services is that many Internet phone services offer free phone numbers and even free Internet phone calls to new and even past customers. Furthermore, services that most traditional telecommunications companies charge extra for are included within the package or plan. These additional services include but are not limited to call forwarding, automatic redial, caller ID, call blocking, and 3-way calling are all usually available for a low rate VOIP package.

VOIP Providers And Prices
Many VOIP providers offer competitively priced packages. In fact, it is even possible to find wholesale VOIP rates by simply shopping around. Most hosted VOIP price plans will depend on if the account will be used primarily for home or business-related purposes and sometimes how many VOIP phones will be needed. Each consumer would be wise to simple compare different packages to find a cheap VOIP plan to best meet his or her needs.