VoIP - Voice Over IP

Pros and Cons of VoIP

Pros

Accessible for all types of users - Home users, small office and large companies can all benefit from a properly implemented VoIP system. The initial overhead costs are fairly linear with no high initial startup cost, as existing computers and routers can be used.

Free VoIP>VoIP calls - Intraoffice communication costs are reduced to zero and calls to other VoIP users are completely free.

Increased Security - It isn't as easy for someone to listen into a call when you are speaking to someone digitally.

Little Training Required - Dedicated IP phones are so similar in function to standard phones that very little extra training is required before a switchover.

Cons

Variable Quality - If the network is congested or other users are consuming too much bandwidth from the same internet connection, the quality of the call can degrade. Voices can sound strange and lag times can increase in worst cases. On the flipside, a properly implemented system can have higher quality than a normal phone.

Possible reliability issues - Complete reliance at this stage could cause problems on occasions - it isn't uncommon for "the internet to go down".

Network configuration - Home users will not experience this problem, but large networks will have to assign VoIP QoS priorities to make sure VoIP is always available under heavy networking loads.

Software

Most of these software downloads focus on home users connecting from a PC - as other options require extra hardware and capabilities. To use this software you will need a microphone and speakers as a minimum.

• Skype is a very popular propriety VoIP system, with free calls to other Skype users (calls to conventional landlines are also possible at much lower rates). Ideal for beginners and those familiar with standard MSN/AIM interfaces.
• Gizmo is an open source VoIP system which is similar in functionality to Skype but has a few more features, SIP compatibility and can call landlines at similar rates.
• Vonageoffer a more dedicated system for unlimited local and national calls to landlines and other VoIP users. A free adapter converts your landline phone to plug directly into your router to provide a familiar service.

The software you choose will depend on how often you want to make VoIP calls and the type of equipment you have. If you are a heavy usage home user, then it might make sense to go with a dedicated flat free provider which allows you to use your current landline phones. However, if this will be your primary system you need to make sure you have enough bandwidth provisioned.

Light users or people trying the system for the first time may wish to use one of the free MSN/ICQ-esq applications for the PC which allows you to use your microphone/speakers or headset to make calls. This is free between other users of the same system and allows you to make calls outside the network to a PSTN user for a per minute fee.

Conclusion

If you are a home user with access to a fast internet connection or a small business thinking about implementing VoIP to save costs, it is worth trialling some of the freeware PC>PC/Landline software using a simple headset to test the quality and usability of the technology. VoIP is undergoing rapid adoption by large companies and telecoms networks and still has some work to be done to make it accessible to all. However, if you are willing to trial the system for a few weeks you may be able to stay ahead of the pack and reduce your calling costs. PC based IP Telephony is the cheapest and easiest way to get started before moving onto a hardware based system.

Hardware VOIP phones can be picked up for as little as £30 now, and feel more like a conventional home phone without the need to turn the PC on each time you make a call. Emergency service calls and usage during power outages aren't available, so it may not be a true PSTN replacement quite yet.