Advantages of Internet Telephones
Internet Telephony Service Provider (ITP) Internet Telephony Service Providers are companies that offer phone service over the Internet. They manage and setup calls between Internet phones and various other phone type devices. This service usually offers free local, toll-free, and international long distance calls to any landline or mobile phone numbers. ITPs also offer VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocols. With the help of Internet Telephony Service Providers, the data and voice communication are transmitted via the Internet rather than through the use of regular networks or wires.
In earlier times, Internet Telephony Service Providers were established to support VoIP. The VoIP is a form of voice communication over the internet. It works just like a phone system in that you can make calls from your computer to the receiver and vice versa. This allows users to place voice calls at cheaper prices and it also allows them to change the look and feel of their voice over the internet. The service is provided by the Internet Telephony Service Providers at very affordable rates.
Earlier the ITPs would have to procure a separate telephone line for making phone calls. But with the advanced technologies now available in the market, the internet telephony is enabled through a single network that facilitates seamless connectivity. This helps ITPs provide low-cost VoIP and free local and toll-free international long distance phone calls to any Internet enabled device.
For setting up an internet telephony service, an ITP needs to acquire a minimum of $5 a month as a usage charge for its services. This is inclusive of the cost of maintaining and securing the client’s IP network. There are several ITPs which provide packages that include basic services like caller ID, voice mail, fax, caller ID block, and conferencing. A small one-time set up fee is applicable when setting up an ITP.
One can also opt for a hosted VoIP instead of opting for a stand alone ITP service. There are several advantages associated with a hosted VoIP service. The service provider offers the same quality of service as an ITP service. It is also economical and hassle free. It does not involve complex installation processes and it can be operated using an internet browser. All necessary equipment is kept on the server of the service provider which eliminates complexities.
Many providers offer free online calls to their subscribers. Free Voice Over Internet Protocol calls is enabled for calls to the USA and Canada. Calls to other parts of the world can be made at a marginally higher cost if the number being called belongs to a non-English speaking country. In this case, the ITP would need to use a proxy server in order to make the call. However, for non-English-speaking countries, this feature becomes crucial.
Most of the modern internet telephony systems use VoIP technology. The system includes the basic telephone components such as the telephone handset, the speakers, the microphone, and the auxiliary wiring and connectors. Some additional features such as video camera, the ability to send a fax, and to play MP3 are also used by some IP phones.
Most of the providers use high-speed internet services for the provision of internet telephony. This facility provides crystal-clear sound and instant communication. Digital or analog audio codecs are used for the same purpose. The cost of internet telephony depends on the number of minutes or the amount of hours that are scheduled to be used each day. It also depends on the bandwidth that is provided by the service provider.
Some internet telephony services also include conference calling, web collaboration, and video conferencing. These features enable people in different places to work together more easily and efficiently. Video conferencing may also be used to share pictures and other files with other users across the world.
Internet telephony has revolutionized the way people communicate. Nowadays, it has become possible to keep in touch with people who are far away from our location. Moreover, it has made the use of voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) easier. This means that one does not need to install any extra equipment or software in order to use this facility.
Most of these internet telephony services do not charge any long distance charges as well. In addition to that, many of them provide free conference calls. The various features that can be used with internet telephony allow people to save money and time. Nowadays, people can enjoy cheap international calls. All they need is a good internet connection and VoIP enabled phone.