Yet another buzzword in the news is VOIP: Voice Over Internet Protocol. The idea is pretty simple – use a data network, often times the Internet, to make telephone calls. Naturally, a high-speed Internet connection is necessary for adequate performance. One primary benefit of using VOIP is that many service providers offer it at no cost (other than equipment). In a business setting, VOIP is often used for internal extensions since it can use data lines already installed in the office. It is also excellent for branch offices which have an Internet connection between them. VOIP phones can also be found in emergency services settings where long-range high-speed wireless is available. A difference between traditional phone lines and VOIP is that one Internet connection can be used to talk to a virtually unlimited number of phone users simultaneously. One disadvantage for VOIP is that the location information isn’t always seamlessly delivered to 911 centers. As equipment prices continue to decline and services levels continue to improve, you may want to consider VOIP for your organization.
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