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VOIP FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding VOIP

  • What is this “VOIP”?

    • VOIP or VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls to almost anywhere in the world by transferring the data via your high-speed internet connection. This bypasses the traditional telephone switches allowing for a significant reduction in cost to the end user.

  • Why would I want to use VOIP?

    • The primary reason to use VOIP is to save money. With basic packages starting around $15 per month for 500 minutes and unlimited usage packages starting around $25 per month it is easy to see how much money a typical long distance calling customer will save when calling anywhere within the US and Canada. International calls via VOIP typically cost between 2 and 8 CENTS per minute! As you can see, you can save even more if you do a lot of international calling.

  • What is the difference between VOIP and “internet telephony”?

    • The primary difference is that internet telephony software does not integrate into the traditional telephone network. Similar to VOIP, with internet telephony you are transferring your “voice data” via the internet. However, with internet telephony, the party you are talking to must also have a compatible program on their computer. With VOIP, you can place a call to anyone with a traditional telephone.

  • Does VOIP work like a normal telephone when it comes to making and receiving calls?

    • Essentially your phone can work the same with VOIP. It rings, you pick it up and talk. To make a call, you pick up the phone, dial, and talk.

    This will really depend on the hardware you use. Some people will prefer to use a headset connected to their PC, some will go with a type of “VOIP Box” where you plug in your phone, the box is connected to your internet connection with no PC required. Some will choose a “VOIP phone” that simply connects to their internet connection.

  • What about features like “call waiting” “voicemail” etc.?

    • All of the features you can select with a “normal” phone should be available with your VOIP service plus MANY more!

  • You mentioned hardware. What do I need and how much is it?

    • You need at least 3 things to start using VOIP.

      A high speed internet connection.
      Some sort of VOIP interface, this could be a VOIP enabled router, a VOIP telephone adaptor, a VOIP ready PC, or a VOIP ready phone. The cheapest route is often hte VOIP analog telephone adaptor because it can use your current telephone.*

      (* Some cordless telephones may not be compatible.)

      A VOIP service provider.
  • What if high-speed internet isn’t available in my area?

    • You CAN often use VOIP over a typical 56K dial up connection in a pinch but it isn’t recommended. The low bandwidth will cause the call quality to suffer.

  • My computer is very old, will I need a new one?

    • Although we do recommend you keep your equipment up to date… Your computer won’t matter at all unless you plan to use it as you VOIP interface. VOIP telephone adaptors are stand alone, no PC required.

  • Can I still surf the web while making a call via VOIP?

    • Absolutely, the VOIP call will be given priority with regards to your available bandwidth so you may surf a little slower but you will not loose sound quality on your phone call.

  • Can I keep my current phone number?

    • Most VOIP providers do offer this service, but it will depend on the provider you choose and your local laws. If you cannot use your exact original telephone number you should be able to get a number in your local area code, or even a toll-free number, just ask the VOIP provider what your options are.

  • Do I really need a VOIP provider? What do they do for me?

    • Yes, you will need to sign up with a VOIP provider. The VOIP provider is there to ensure that the VOIP system integrates smoothly with the telephone system. Without the VOIP providers the two systems (the internet and the telephone network) could not communicate.

  • What VOIP service provider should I use?

    • Today, you have many VOIP service providers to choose from. You will likely want to go with one of the major providers such as Vonage because they have better infrastructure built up. However, as with any purchase, shop around and compare what is available. You should be able to find a great provider with a package that suits your monthly telephone use and budget. Many providers offer set time bundles, unlimited use bundles, as well as “pay as you go” plans billed by the minute.

    This list of questions is by no means considered complete. Even the accuracy may fade as new products are introduced. We will attempt to keep it as up to date as possible and add new questions and answers as necessary. Please feel free to submit your own question if we do not cover it here.

    Sincerely,

    The Dakota VOIP Info Center Team