Have you made a call from an app on your phone recently? How about an online meeting for work? These technologies are so prevalent in this day and age that they almost feel second nature. Everyone can do it in a few seconds without much thinking—even little kids! But, have you ever paused and wondered how that’s possible? Does it ever make you think back to the time when there were phone lines on towers? If your answer is yes, it pays for you to go over the basics of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
What Is VoIP?
In a nutshell, VoIP refers to communication services that use Internet connection instead of an analog phone or mobile network. This technology uses ‘codecs’ to convert audio signals from your voice into digital data, which is then compressed and transmitted over the Internet. Once it reaches its destination, it’s decoded and converted back to voice signals. This process makes it possible to make calls using data-powered devices, such as mobile phones, computers, or laptops.
VoIP has heavily changed the way people communicate since its conception over four decades ago. There exists a wide range of VoIP equipment from quality providers, such as NTS Direct. From IP phones to hybrid systems, this technology is now being used even by businesses for better integration and higher productivity.
What started out as a simple workaround for expensive long-distance calls has now become one of the greatest innovations in history. Here are five leading reasons why you should embrace it:
#1 Cost-Effective Calls
The most attractive thing about VoIP is that it’s a lot cheaper than traditional phone systems. You can make unlimited free calls, even international calls, as long as you’re connected to the Internet. For businesses, VoIP cuts down expenses by integrating voice and data communication networks, which were previously two standalone systems. This allows you to save up on equipment, maintenance, and manpower.
#2 Versatile And Convenient Service
VoIP services use a special virtual number that can be used wherever you go. You can use your designated number on multiple devices, too. This provides mobility and flexibility that old phone systems don’t have, especially in enterprises. Traditionally, when a business moves or hands over their operations, their telecommunications provider would have to route the calls to the new location. This is no longer necessary with VoIP as it can operate without geographical limitations.
#3 Easy Integration With Other Media
The technology used in VoIP can integrate other functions into its system to allow for more advanced features. Some of the most popular examples of this would be the click-to-call link in email clients and the voicemail option in messaging apps. Moreover, analog technologies can now be merged into digital communications with the right adapters and settings. For instance, you can send or receive fax messages through a re-configured VoIP system.
#4 Secure And Reliable Network
Since voice and data networks are managed in a single system, they use a standard security protocol. Also, in the event of a power or network interruption, VoIP has an automated system that routes calls to other available channels. This way, productivity won’t be negatively affected and business can keep running without hiccups.
#5 Smart Assistance
Perhaps, the most fun part of voice communication technology is the rise of voice recognition software. Virtual assistants, like Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa, are widely used as tools for efficiency. These assistants are valuable in streamlining workflow and handling multiple tasks appropriately.
The Future Is Here
As they say, modern problems need modern solutions. Transitioning to a VoIP system appears to be the best option there is, considering how it effectively covers the basic communication needs of the Internet era.
