The ABCs of VoIP

How you can use the Internet and a computer to call anyone—on any phone—for free

When was the last time you received something for nothing? As cliche as it might sound, when it comes to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology for communications, reality is actually equal to—and often greater than—the hype.

Simply put, VoIP gives anyone who has access to a computer and the Internet the ability to call anyone, anywhere in the world for free.

Modern technology, including the ubiquity of Internet connections (broadband, dialup and Wi-Fi) and low-cost computers, has created the unique opportunity for consumers and small businesses alike to benefit from VoIP for free global calling. And amazingly, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to set up.

If you can surf the Web or send an email, you can benefit from the considerable cost-savings this modern voice technology has introduced.

What is VoIP?

VoIP works just like a regular telephone line. But instead of going through the landline plugged into your wall, your calls go through your high-speed or dial-up Internet connection using VoIP technology.

The way that VoIP works is simple, really. You download VoIP software to your computer that accesses a remote service on another computer system known as a server. The software works seamlessly behind the scenes with your Internet connection by way of a network (or in techie terms, a ‘client’) to make the connection for you.

The VoIP software serves as your ‘phone’. For handset and receiver, you can use your computer’s built-in microphone and speakers, a headset attached to your PC, a USB phone or even your existing telephone (with an adapter), and you always get great crystal-clear digital quality.

When you want to make a call, all you do start the program on your computer and on a familiar dial-pad (but now on your computer screen and digital!), enter the number you wish to call. The call is placed and you can talk for free

In the past, VoIP has been called a few different things: Internet telephony, peer-to-peer (or P2P), IP telephony, broadband telephony, voice over broadband and others. But essentially, it all comes down to one thing: VoIP is a great way to save money.

It sounds great. So how can I get started?

I always recommend starting at the beginning – Find a provider that has a long-standing tradition of offering exceptional quality VoIP services.

You’ll find that typically the firms that have been around the longest have the highest quality service. This is due in part to the robustness of their technology, years of feedback from users that has influenced their products and services and many other factors.

It’s also important to note that the companies that are considered pioneers in VoIP often have the most extensive distribution networks, bringing high-quality voice communication services to carriers, enterprises and service providers—in addition to the consumer sector.

Now that you’ve compiled a short list of possible providers, take a look at the offerings. If you’re going to be calling overseas, it’s important to take note if they have any limitations as to the type of VoIP they offer and what countries they cover.

When choosing a provider, consider whether they offer only PC-to-PC calling (which limits your calling options) or do they have true free PC calling to landlines (‘traditional’ phones) and mobile phones of your choice?

How about destinations? Do they charge for international calls, or will you be able to call select global destinations free of charge?

Considering these factors carefully will help you determine which VoIP provider you should choose to best meet your calling needs.

So I can use VoIP to call traditional and mobile phones?

Yes, you can! A good VoIP provider will not limit you to just free PC-to-PC calling; they should offer PC-to-landline and –mobile phone calling. And it should be free to select global destinations! And often, if the country you wish to call isn’t on their free-calling destination list, check to see if they offer exceptionally competitive rates. This way, you’ll be able to call without limitations to virtually any phone, worldwide, with consistently crystal-clear digital service.

Can VoIP do anything else for me?

A quality VoIP provider often offers other value-added services, typically free of charge. Look for the following features if they are of interest to you:

• Instant messaging with presence lets your contacts know of your availability with a presence indicator. It lets them know if you’re near your computer and able to start a free conversation. What’s more, you’ll know if they’re around to chat, too! (Often providers will also allow you to send unlimited text messages!)
• Multi-user voice conferencing allows you to set up a conference call with up to five participants at anytime! No prior reservations required. Within a conference call you can have a mix of your online contacts and one contact who can be reached only on their fixed or mobile phone numbers.
• Multi-user text collaboration enables you to invite up to five contacts into one chat session. Getting the old gang back together is just an easy click away!

Ok, I’m convinced. Am I really ready to start calling for free?

If you’ve downloaded VoIP software from a highly regarded provider, you really are ready to start making completely free, great quality calls from your computer. And isn’t that the beauty of it all? That you really can use your PC and Internet connection and turn your computer into a free Internet phone!

I do have a bit of advice, however. While you can use your computer’s built-in microphone and speakers, I do recommend that you buy a headset. They’re inexpensive, ensure better sound quality on your calls and you can use them straight out of the box.

MediaRing Talk represents the new wave in voice communications.

Free PC to PC and PC to Phone Calls to 8 Destinations…
MediaRing Talk lets you to make free, unlimited calls to both landline and mobile phones anywhere in the U.S., Canada, China, Singapore and Hong Kong, and calls to landline phones in the U.K., Taiwan and Australia.

MediaRing was one of the first companies to offer free PC-to-PC calls and instant messaging, and have since built a complete portfolio of VoIP services. Founded in 1993, MediaRing have established a reputation for quality products, service and support, helping them to become the leading VoIP service provider in Asia, and now in the US, Canada and UK.

That’s all there is to it. So go ahead and give VoIP a try. With free software, free sign-up, no purchase required, no credit card needed and free calling, there’s really nothing to lose!