What is VoIP?

Voice over the Internet Protocol (VoIP) is one of the newest communication tools. It allows Internet users to make telephone calls. Modems allow computers to use telephone lines to communicate data. VoIP allows users to talk to others using the computer.

VoIP uses the network structure of the Internet and transmits voice. It is becoming more popular as it provides low cost telephony.

Voice can be transmitted using:

a headset and microphone
the inbuilt microphone/speakers
a telephone designed for VoIP.

VoIP

How is VoIP used?

In 2004, this new protocol became available for transmitting voice using the Internet. In the beginning the network was not reliable. With improvements to the broadband network VoIP is now very efficient. Phone calls can be made for the cost of the Internet service already installed. Some businesses have exchanged their phones for digital VoIP phones to save on the cost of calls.

stockexpert photo used by permission VoIP phone calls can also be placed using mobile phones mp3 file included . Not all of the digital services are available on mobile phones yet. If you don't have this service on a mobile or a VoIP handset, then calls can be made using the computer's inbuilt microphone and speakers or a headset microphone. When using these software based services, often video is also incorporated into the services provided.

Who uses VoIP?

teacher siting at computer using headphones and microphone

Why use VoIP?

Mini Podcast: Heather Johnson retired principal of Peakhurst High School, recorded in May 2009.