Short for Voice over Internet
Protocol, VoIP describes the
category of hardware and software
that enables people to make
telephone calls via the Internet.
Voice signals are converted to
packets of data, which are
transmitted on shared, public
lines, hence avoiding the tolls
of the traditional,
public-switched telephone network
(PSTN).
VoIP applications can generally
be used with a simple microphone
and computer speakers, but IP
telephones or VoIP boxes can also
be used, providing an experience
identical to normal telephoning.
In the past year, the quality and
reliability of VoIP technology
has improved to the point that
vast numbers of users have
abandoned their standard
telephone contracts, in favor of
VoIP. VoIP requires the customer
to have a broadband connection,
such as cable modem or DSL.
HARDWARE
FOR A VOIP CONNECTION
ADSL or Broadband Modem
It allows an analog system (cable
& telephone lines) to
communicate with a digital system
(home network/computers).
A router
Connects multiple networks
together
VoIP Adapter - ATA
(Analog Telephone Adapter)
Device connects to a high-speed
connection through a router using
an RJ45 (Ethernet) cable and to
your phone using an RJ11
(telephone) cable.
