Many consumers today have asked themselves, “What is VOIP?” Usually, the first step in attaining and understanding the VOIP definition is to lean exactly what VOIP stands for. VOIP is actually an anagram for “Voice over Internet Protocol”. In order to fully define VOIP one must come to understand that VOIP is simply a technology that allows the transmittal of a voice conversation over an Internet connection.
Two Types Of VOIP
When learning about the definition of VOIP it is important to know not only that it allows for voice conversations over the Internet, but also that there are two different types of VOIP. Learning what the VOIP definition is helpful in fully understanding how the different types of VOIP work. The first is known as DID, or Direct Inward Dialing, and the second is access numbers. DID works in that it requires callers to dial the extension of a VOIP user to reach the desired party. Access numbers usually are free to the VOIP user, but are treated as a local call for the caller.
VOIP Vs. Digital Phone
Once a personal or business consumer understands the definition, VOIP may be their next step. Those that have really done their homework and researched the VOIP definition they may next ask themselves, “What is the difference between VOIP and digital phone?” The two services are quite similar in that the telephone calls are transmitted through the Internet. With a VOIP service, a special VOIP telephone is required to hook up through the Internet connection. With a digital phone, or Internet telephony, there is no special phone but an analog telephone adapter that connects to the broadband router and telephone.
VOIP Gateway
Another question a consumer may ask after leaning about the VOIP definition is, “What is a VOIP gateway?” Basically, a VOIP gateway converts voice as well as fax calls between a telephone network and an IP network. Usually, this conversion is required for call routing, control signaling, and different types of network management systems or billing systems.
Deciding On VOIP
Once it is clear to the consumer what the VOIP definition is and they have decided to proceed with the purchase of the VOIP system, it makes sense that the consumer would ask, “What is the best VOIP service?” and also, “What is a VOIP solution?” When the consumer understands what he or she wants in a VOIP system, it is a good idea to shop around and read product reviews. There are many VOIP providers that a consumer may choose from.