VoIP

VoIP (voice delivered using the Internet Protocol) is a term used in IP telephony for managing the delivery of voice information using the Internet Protocol (IP) - ie, sending voice information in digital form rather than in the traditional protocols of the public switched telephone network (PSTN).  VoIP allows you to make telephone calls using a computer network, over a data network such as the Internet. VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the internet then converts it back at the other end so you can speak to anyone with a regular phone number.

Benefits of VoIP

Simplification

Voice and data can co-exist on a single integrated infrastructure that will support all forms of communication, allowing more standardisation and less equipment management.  Before the convergence of VoIP telephony and wireless communications this concept was a pipe dream. The expense of enterprise enabling workers made it impractical to extend communication features beyond a wireline radius of the PBX and impossible to extend them across the PSTN.

Network Efficiency

The integration of voice and data effectively fills up the data communication channels efficiently, as 50% of conversation is silence. As a result, more calls can be made on the system.  With IP Telephony, a company can choose the path that is most appropriate for them to deploy enterprise mobility, one that minimizes technical disruption and preserves existing investments existing voice and data network infrastructure.

Cost reduction

Mobile users and branch offices want the convenience of all of the communications tools they use at the office when they are not at their desk. They want an intuitive way to communicate easily on the device of their choice, anywhere they work, and stay connected through one phone number and one message mailbox.  For example, with a IP Softphone, a teleworker can receive calls made to their office at their home or remote location.  They can access communications features they enjoy in the office, such as call transfer, abbreviated dialing, conference, and hold.