Voice over IP (VoIP)

- IP-Enabled Services

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is a technology that allows you to make voice calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line. Some VoIP services may only allow you to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile, and international numbers. Also, while some VoIP services only work over your computer or a special VoIP phone, other services allow you to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP adapter.

VoIP services convert your voice into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is converted to a regular telephone signal before it reaches the destination. VoIP can allow you to make a call directly from a computer, a special VoIP phone, or a traditional phone connected to a special adapter. In addition, wireless "hot spots" in locations such as airports, parks, and cafes allow you to connect to the Internet and may enable you to use VoIP service wirelessly.

To make a VoIP call we need access to two things: a VoIP account and an Internet connection. A broadband (high speed Internet) connection is required. This can be through a cable modem, or high speed services such as DSL or a local area network. A computer, adaptor, or specialized phone is required. Some VoIP services only work over your computer or a special VoIP phone, while other services allow you to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP adapter. If you use your computer, you will need some software and an inexpensive microphone. Special VoIP phones plug directly into your broadband connection and operate largely like a traditional telephone. If you use a telephone with a VoIP adapter, you'll be able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may also provide a dial tone.

- Wireless VoIP

The evolution of the smartphone and other mobile devices has taken place far more rapidly than for many other technologies. 4G LTE gave us speeds roughly ten times faster than 3G and brought with it far more benefits than faster Internet speeds on your  smartphones. The speed of 4G also meant that we could access VoIP calling on all your devices at last, with mobile applications available not just on your phones but on all mobile operating systems. It is commonplace for phone carriers to integrate VoIP into the dialler application along with normal calls. Moreover, technologies are available from many mobile network operators that can handle a call over a 4G data connection, cellular network or WiFi as required.

VoIP technology has existed for decades, but it’s the 5G network that will transform it into the global standard. The 5G network is more than capable of rising to the task and enhancing the way we communicate. Communication service providers are expected to provide high-quality services to their customers. With a reliable network in place, VoIP technologies will continue to evolve, proving themselves to be the ideal platform for offering a feature-rich experience.