Voice over IP(VoIP) FAQs

Voice over IP FAQ provides answers to questions that small businesses frequently ask about Voice over Internet Protocol (IP) and unified communications. Our Voice over IP FAQ explains the differences between VoIP and unified communications, the benefits for small businesses, and the equipment you'll need.

What is VoIP?

VoIP technology enables you to make and receive telephone calls over a broadband Internet connection instead of over a traditional phone line.

How Does it Work?

With VoIP, voice traffic is converted into data packets and transmitted over the public Internet and/or over a private IP network. When you call a landline or cell phone number, the data packets are converted to a regular telephone signal before they reach the party you're calling.

How is it Different from Unified Communications?

VoIP refers to a basic Internet-based telephony system. Unified communications is more advanced. Among unified communications' many advantages are sophisticated call center features; conferencing that combines voice, data, video and desktop sharing; and presence—the ability to instantly determine the availability of others within your company.

What Equipment Do I Need?

For a basic VoIP system, all you need are a broadband Internet connection and a VoIP-enabled phone; a traditional phone connected to an adapter; or a computer with VoIP software.

• Many businesses are now using VoIP and unified communications on their own private networks. Telephony systems residing on private networks have better security and quality than those that operate strictly over the public Internet. With VoIP or unified communications on a private network, you can prioritize voice over other types of traffic on your network, to ensure the best possible audio quality.
  
  

  What Are the Benefits?

  •Reduced local and long-distance charges.
  •One network to manage for both voice and data, instead of two.
  •Reduced travel costs--thanks to online conferencing—easy-to-use video calls, and other collaboration tools.
  •Easily make adds, moves, and changes to the small business phone system as needed.
  •Employees have more ways to stay connected and customers can reach them more easily.
  • Take all of your phone system's features with you for use at home, at the office, or on the road.