Voice over Internet Protocol – VoIP

So what is it? Well, very simply, it’s a technology that sends your voice over the internet as if it were computer data, removing the need for traditional person to person phone lines.

By sending and receiving phone calls and faxes over the Internet, you benefit immediately from its phenomenal flexibility and range. In essence, with the right setup, whenever you go online anywhere in the world, you can make and receive calls as if you were sitting at your desk.

Unlike a traditional switchboard, that uses a limited number of dedicated telephone lines and phone extensions, VoIP uses your “always on” broadband connection, your office network and some clever software to route your calls.

The reality is that VoIP is the way forward for the whole industry, so it’s actually a question of when and not if. You’ve probably, unknowingly, already embraced the technology, even if only by using instant messaging (MSN, AOL, Yahoo, etc.) or phoning someone using Skype.

Alongside cost reduction, research shows that one of the main reasons for VoIP integration is its potential to mobilise the work force. Essentially VoIP allows businesses to be more flexible by benefiting from advanced communication features while, at the same time, reducing the cost of calls and the cost of ownership.