VoIP phone service is a product that meets consumer demand for inexpensive long distance and international calling. For the price of local phone service, consumers can speak to friends, family, and business associates around the world. However, as with many technological innovations, a variety of equipment is necessary to enable VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol phone service.

With VoIP, it is really the broadband connection that enables the signal to travel with high speed, and enable international calling. The broadband connection plays the most vital role in the functioning of the VoIP phone. A stable and clear VoIP call can be made only through either a high speed internet service like DSL, or a cable modem.

To enable VoIP, the phone is connected to a computer directly or through a telephone adaptor. This connection converts the analog voice signals into distributed digital data, which is finally transferred to the broadband internet connection and which enables the call. Many people who have internet service can easily make the switch from traditional to VoIP phone service.

While the broadband connection is essential, there are also other components that need to be in place in order to use VoIP. As the internet works only through a computer, a computer is necessary part of the equation. The computer must also be compatible with broadband, as a dial-up connection does not provide a clear voice transmission. The computer should also have a sound card for additional call clarity, although a phone adaptor or a specialty IP phone can also be used. An adaptor is also important, as it enables the flow of signals between the computer and a conventional phone.

The final piece of the puzzle is selecting a high-quality VoIP company to deliver the actual service. Most companies charge a monthly or yearly fee, and many offer incentives and free equipment to try out their service. Reading reviews online is a good way to begin locating the best service available.

VoIP phone service offers many advantages over traditional phone service. Once the equipment and the service are in place, it’s easy to place calls all over the world. VoIP is the next wave of phone technology.