FAQ's
FOR VoIP
Q:
What is VoIP?
A:
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - technology that enables one
to make and receive phone calls thru the Internet instead of using
the traditional analog PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network)
lines.
Q: What are the
advantages of VoIP over analog PSTN lines?
A:
The primary main advantage of VoIP over PSTN lines is cost (it's
cheaper!) Other advantages of VoIP are as follows: digital features
not commonly available on PSTN lines such as voicemail, caller ID,
conference, music-on-hold, etc.
Q: What type of
service and equipment are needed for VoIP deployment?
A:
The following equipment and services are required for VoIP deployment:
High-Speed Broadband connection, IP Phones (Softphones will require
PC) or Analog Telephone Adapters (ATAs) and VoIP Service Provider
(terminate calls).
Q: Can I use dial-up
for VoIP or do I need broadband?
A:
Dial-up can be used for VoIP when necessary or if it’s the only
type of connection available. However, we recommend using broadband
since certain VoIP codecs (e.g. G.711) require higher bandwidth.
Q: Do I need a computer
to make/receive VoIP calls?
A:
The answer depends on whether or not you will be using a softphone
with your VoIP integration. VoIP does not require any computer to
make/receive phone calls (only ATA devices or IP phones). If softphones
are used instead of physical phones or ATA devices, then computers
are needed.
Q: Can I surf the
web during VoIP calls?
A:
Yes, VoIP allows web surfing while making and receiving VoIP calls
simultaneously. It shares the bandwidth connection with other LAN
computers and prioritizes voice.
Q: Should I use
an ATA or an IP phone?
A:
It depends on your preference and budget. An ATA will allow you
to use analog phones for VoIP. While this might save money, they
do not have one touch feature keys (e.g. transfer, hold, etc). On
the other hand, using IP phones will provide more features that
are similar to digital phones.
Q: Can I use VoIP
for all the phones in my residence?
A:
Definitely, VoIP can replace every single phone in your residence.
Both ATA devices and IP phones can be used instead of regular analog
phones. This setup requires an account with a VoIP provider.
Q: Can VoIP make
and receive calls to/from PSTN lines?
A:
Absolutely! VoIP users can definitely make and receive calls to/from
PSTN lines. Any types of calls (e.g. local, long distance, international,
etc.) are allowed. This requires an account with VoIP Service Providers
that provide termination.
Q: May I keep my
existing phone number when migrating to VoIP?
A:
Most VoIP Service Providers will allow you to keep your existing
PSTN phone number for VoIP. However, you will need to check with
the provider since not all of them offer this service. A signed
"Letter of Authorization" will be required by the provider when
keeping your number.
Q: What are VoIP
Service Providers (VSPs)?
A:
VoIP Service Providers (VSPs) are the next generation telcos that
provide interconnection between VoIP and PSTN networks. They allow
call origination and termination between these two networks.
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