Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Save Money Using Broadband Phones

By Ray Lam

Broadband phones are becoming more mainstream. There are articles whether broadband phone service reached a tipping point or not. What is clear, though, is that phone service delivered over the public internet is the future of telecommunications.

Let's take a step back and examine what the uses are for broadband phone service. More specifically, the technology behind it. Broadband phone service is utilized by a technology called Voice Over IP (Internet Protocol), or VoIP. It utilizes the bandwidth (the "speed" in layman's terms) to send voice packets. These packets are sent like any other data (i.e. email, web browsing etc.). When they reach their destination the data packets are reconstructed and converted into voice!

Multinational companies that have satellite offices set up around the world install infrastructures that allow employees to make broadband phone calls, making communicating among co-workers easy and convenient, as if they were talking to each other in the same office. In fact, instead of dialing a number, the communication can actually be done via intercom.

Nowadays, instant messaging Internet applications have voice messaging capabilities. Although consumers need a computer to make calls with this method, voice messaging uses the same technology. In fact some providers want to make the experience as traditional as possible--so traditional that phones can be connected to the computer. By using this technology, consumers can simply use their existing broadband connection to make free Internet phone calls.

No more headphones, microphones, messengers, software or even having your computer turned on to make cheap calls over the Internet! With a broadband phone service plan you can just pick up your telephone to make and receive telephone calls the same way you always have. You'll also be able to take advantage of features like caller ID, voice mail, speed dialing, auto call back, plus advanced features your traditional phone company didn't offer, like having voice mail sent to your e-mail or cell phone, or virtual phone numbers, even pick your area code so friends and family don't get a long distance charge for calling you.

Another issue that arises with broadband phone service providers is their longevity. Since it's relatively inexpensive to start a VoIP company you should be extra cautious about the background of the company before you commit your number. Many consumers have been burnt by using new companies who offered too good to be true deals. Sometimes when it's "too good to be true" it IS too good to be true. Buyer beware.

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