 What Options are Available? Simple The simplest type of VOIP is through software programs such as Microsoft Messenger (already installed on all machines running Windows XP) and Skype. “You can call other users of the same system for free…” You can call other users of the same system for free, but arranging external calls is more complicated, and you cannot receive normal incoming calls. External calls are usually charged by the minute, and call quality is good, but not always perfect. You can either use a headset attached to the pc, or a digital phone (or standard phone with adaptor) as with other VOIP options.
A simple setup would be suitable for small businesses that may need to communicate with other small companies, or between two offices. It is a cheap setup, but is limited, especially as it relies on the PC to make calls, and all users must run the same software for it to work.
Get Started:
- Make sure your broadband connection is properly set up and working.
- Install the appropriate software (Microsoft Messenger, Yahoo, Skype, etc).
Register with the service. You may need to provide payment details if you are going to make external calls, or use a service with a setup or monthly charge.
- Connect a headset (microphone and earpiece), a digital phone, or an ordinary phone with a digital adaptor to the Ethernet (network) port on the PC.
- You should now be able to make and receive free calls to users of the same service, and you may (depending on the service) be able to pay for external calls.
Single Phone
One of the most effective solutions for home and smaller businesses is to use a single residential VOIP line. It provides a simple solution, without the need for any complex setups or unnecessary costs. All you need to do is sign up, plug in an adaptor and phone, and it is ready to use.
“You can use a VOIP connection as a second phone line and number…”
You can use a VOIP connection as a second phone line and number, providing cheap calls and lower line rental than a standard second line. BT is currently the main provider of residential VOIP services, but the number of providers is growing.
If you wish to keep your own number for VOIP, or get a local (rather than national) number for incoming calls, you need to check whether the company and package you sign up for will allow you to do so.
Get Started:
- Make sure your broadband connection is properly set up and working.
- Contact the company you wish to use and sign up for the service. (Remember that different services will have different costs, quality and restrictions.)
- Plug the digital phone or standard phone with a digital adaptor into the broadband router (the box that splits the internet connection multiple computers) or the cable modem.
- You should now hear a normal dial tone, and be able to make calls.
Internal
If your business has a number of separate phone lines, or operates from a number of locations; then a VOIP system can allow you to make all internal calls for free.
“A VOIP system can allow you to make all internal calls for free.”
You can simply dial an internal number and get through to any of the VOIP phones for free. You can still use an internal setup to make external phone calls, but these can either go through a private branch exchange (PBX) system as before, or through the separate VOIP connection. Phone calls to VOIP phones would work in the same way as normal phones, although they may use a new telephone number.
An internal solution can save you a lot of money on rental and calls, especially if you make a lot of internal calls; and the setup costs are still relatively low.
Get Started:
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