Internet Phone Service 101

In this article I'm going to explain Internet phone service in simple terms.

Very often you'll see Internet phone service referred to by an acronym: VoIP. What this stands for is "voice over Internet protocol."

"Protocol" is another word for "rules." So Internet protocols are the rules and technologies that make the Internet possible. It's a collection of all the rules that everyone follows so that equipment from one vendor is able to communicate just fine with equipment from another vendor.

Simply put, Internet protocol (IP) rules require that the message must be broken down into smaller packets; then each packet takes the fastest route it can find to get to its final destination. At the destination, all the pieces are put back together in the proper order. What this means is that the system is a whole lot more cost-effective -- and there is lots of room for future growth.

Here's how Internet protocol makes Internet phone service possible

In the old days, you were connected to the person you're talking to buy a copper wire. Your conversation with this other person took up the entire wire -- nobody else could use it. This is not very efficient. And as demand for phone service went up, capacity could not keep up with the demand. The phone companies literally could not string enough copper wire fast enough.

The solution? Send the voice messaging using Internet protocols -- VoIP.

The owners of these networks realized that they could attract new customers for their networks by offering Internet telephone service that saved money on local and long-distance calling. Needless to say, the phone companies got into the act and offered this service, too.

So that's how it works.

Now let's see if we can answer some questions that will help you make an informed decision about whether Internet phone services are for you.

Here's how you can take advantage of Internet phone service

You have several options. One way is to bundle your Internet phone along with your Internet service and your cable TV. When looking at all that you spend on these separate services, you might find that you can save significant money; just make sure the bundling is offered in your area.

You can also contact your existing phone company to see if they offer Internet phone services.

A third option is to go with an independent Internet phone service company. There are many vendors out there, e.g., Skype, Packet8, and ViOP.com. And these are just a few of the popular Internet phone services out there. Be careful, however, because there's been a shakeout in the market. Vonage and SunRocket are two companies that recently suffered setbacks and there may be more before the shakeout ends and consolidation takes over.

Will you need a special phone line?

Not always; but, for sure, you'll be required to have broadband Internet in your home or office. And another thing: you'll need an adapter that your phones plug into on one side and the Internet plugs into on the other side; otherwise you'll be making your phone calls from your PC. After you have finished with that, you're finished with the hardware side of the equation.

Conclusion

Hopefully we've answered some of the most urgent questions that you may have had about Internet phone service. So don't wait -- check out your local cable and phone companies to see who is offering this exciting new service; then make an informed decision as to whether it is right for you.