What is VoIP?

What is VoIP? How does it work?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. But what does that mean?

Let’s break this down, Voice Over is merely referring to the ability to talk through something, pretty easy. Yet, what is Internet Protocol? Internet Protocol, usually referred to IP Address, is “a unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer uses to communicate over a network.” In easy terms, these are the “roads and expressways” that each computer takes to get to each other. Therefore, VoIP is the ability to talk using these computer “roads and expressways.”

How Does it Work?

VoIP works a lot like email. Once you start talking, VoIP processes the information turning into ‘packets’ of data. These are then passed through the IP addresses we mentioned above.

Since VoIP uses these IP addresses, a lot more can happen than it can on your ordinary phone. VoIP services come with email, calling through your computer, faxing through email, video conferences, cheaper long distance calling, voicemails notifications through text and email, call forwarding, and automated voicemails.

The best part is since so many people have started to use the internet, these services are not only available almost anywhere, they cost a fraction of the cost of your old phone.

Concerns of Using VoIP Services

VoIP offers very few disadvantages. What companies and residential owners are worried about is losing internet in a storm? This is a very valid concern. VoIPster has a few options to avoid this issue. 

Option One

We offer a “follow me list.” This allows for you to put as many phone numbers in a list that will transfer the call, if you don’t pick up. For example, let’s say you have internet go out on your office phone. If you set it up before, any missed calls will forward on to wherever you tell them, i.e. our cell phone, another office in a different city.

Option Two

Secondly, another ability is to keep a small power source hooked up. Depending on what type you have ready, they can last for long period of time, keeping your internet and phones running without missing a beat.