More and more people are getting intrigued by VOIP. But some are still reluctant on using it since it may appear “too technical” for those who are not very internet savvy. But what is VOIP? VOIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. In this scenario, voice signals are transmitted through the internet instead of the usual landline cables. Households and businesses alike can profit from this new technology – if only people set aside their fears and explore what is VOIP themselves.
Businesses, and even countries, are concerned as to how secure transmission is over VOIP. Because of this, countries have set laws regarding selling and use of VOIP services. In the United States, the government and its people are allowed to use VOIP legally, whether for personal or business use; Australians are also enjoying VOIP services, as most telecommunication providers offer it; In Ethiopia, where its government monopolizes the telecoms industry, selling and using VOIP service is banned and is punishable by law.
What is VOIP? VOIP can be used like a regular telephone. The only difference is the form of transmission that it uses. There is still a dial tone, just like a traditional home phone, and users can dial the phone number that they wish to call, most subscribers find it really user friendly. They can also make phone calls and surf the internet at the same time without any disruption on either service.
Those who are currently using VOIP can attest to the reliability of the service. Call centers worldwide use VOIP technology to make outbound calls and receive incoming calls. The systems’ efficiency relies heavily on the quality of the internet connection. Poor internet connection and speed can result to choppy lines and even dropped calls; hence, those with stable broadband connection, like hi-speed DSL and cable internet, can expect a good VOIP service as well.
Due to the massive popularity of VOIP, its security is often questioned. New technologies are often prone to attacks. VOIP users need to make sure that they are also aware on how to keep their VOIP service secure, especially to those who are suing it to transmit sensitive or confidential data. Users are encouraged to use gateway, anti spyware, and antivirus provided by their host to protect their VOIP servers; they should also work out on applying strong authentication and access controls on their system, especially if its connected to a Local Area Network (LAN); VOIP service providers also offer security protocols as well as part of the package, and subscribers must enable these to make sure they are fully covered.
Like any other new technology, VOIP hasn’t been perfected yet. There are still services that may be incompatible with it, such as hooking it up to a fax machine. Nevertheless, engineers are formulating ways on how they can improve the system and make it the ultimate means when it comes to communication. Given the pace at which new programs and systems are being developed, it won’t be long until the VOIP system will be perfected.
At this time, users can definitely enjoy the reliability and the competitive cost that VOIP offers.