What are VoIP and Internet Calls?
VoIP means Voice over Internet Protocol. It is also known as internet telephony. VoIP is a technology that allows the use of telephone services over internet protocols (IP). Unlike the conventional telephone systems that route phone calls via copper wires, VoIP service moves communications over Local Area Networks (LANs) and broadband internet connections. According to the latest report from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), there are over 332,000 VoIP subscriptions in the District of Columbia as of June 2021.
VoIP and internet call two words used interchangeably. They use packet-switched technology to transmit phone calls over internet connections in contrast with traditional phone systems that use Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN). Since VoIP routes communications as data packets over the internet, lots of information are usually delivered between callers and call recipients in a short time.
How Do VoIP and Internet Calls Compare to Landline and Cell Phone Calls?
Landlines calls convert sound waves into electric signals and travel through fiber-optic cables to telephone exchanges where they are transmitted to called parties. The electric signals are converted back into sound waves once they reach the call recipients’ phones.
Sound waves from calls made on cell phones are converted into electric signals. These signals are borne by radio waves to call recipients’ phones and are then converted back into sound waves. When a person places a call, the electrical signals are beamed unto base stations and then routed to the call recipient.
VoIP transmits calls by converting sound waves into digital packets over the internet. It uses specialized devices like IP phones, Softphones, and ATAs. Softphones are VoIP software installed on computers and other mobile devices to facilitate internet calls, while IP phones are like regular telephones. They are connected directly to modems or routers through Ethernet connections to enable VoIP calls. They use simple computer algorithms called CODECS to transform sound waves into digital packets and then back to sound waves on getting to the call recipients.
VoIP calls offer more merits than landlines and cell phone calls. These include:
- Free choice of area codes: VoIP uses the internet to place and receive calls. Users are, therefore, not limited by their location to use the service. Users can select their choice area codes regardless of their physical locations at the point of subscription. This is in contrast with the traditional phone systems that assign area codes based on phone users’ physical location.
- Flexibility: VoIP does not restrict users to a single device. They can use their VoIP numbers across multiple internet-enabled devices and never have to worry about missing a call.
- Lower cost: VoIP services are cheaper than traditional phone services because they rely on the internet to place and receive calls. Making long-distance calls comes free or at relatively low costs.
- Mobility: VoIP users can make and receive calls on the go, provided there are reliable internet connections. Landline and cell phone users are limited to their phone carrier coverage areas.
- Scalability: VoIP technology permits users to increase their bandwidth to accommodate more phone lines without necessarily adding new phones.
Phone lookup applications can help search the information associated with VoIP numbers.
Does the District of Columbia Regulate VoIP Providers?
The District of Columbia Public Service Commission has no regulatory control over VoIP services in the state. The Office of the People’s Counsel (OPC), however, advises residents with VoIP-related complaints or challenges to call the FCC on 1 (800) 225-5322. They can also file their complaints online with the Commission.
What Do You Need for VoIP and Internet Calls?
VoIP and internet calls require reliable IP networks such as broadband internet service. A Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) and Ethernet connections will give you an excellent VoIP calling experience.
To use a landline for VoIP calls, you need a compatible telephone connected to an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA). An ATA connects the phone to the internet by plugging it into a router or a wall socket.
To use a computer for internet calls, you need a desktop or laptop PC installed with the right VoIP software like Viber, Google Talk, or Skype. Connect a microphone and a speaker or a headset to the PC to facilitate the exchange of communication.
To make internet calls on a mobile device, get a smartphone or tablet, and install a compatible VoIP application. You can visit online mobile phone stores to download applications like Whatsapp, Viber, or Skype. Only callers with the same applications on their devices can exchange free calls with each other. Calling regular phone numbers may attract some charges, although relatively affordable.
Are VoIP Numbers Different from Regular Phone Numbers?
VoIP numbers and regular phone numbers appear and function the same. VoIP numbers, like standard phone numbers, are a 10-digit number that identifies phone users. However, VoIP numbers identify users on the IP network, while regular numbers identify phone users on the PSTN.
Other differences between VoIP numbers and regular phone numbers include:
- VoIP numbers are not limited to work on specific devices. They are assigned to individuals who can choose to share them across multiple devices such as PCs, smartphones, tablets, and even regular analog landlines (with adapters).
- Unlike regular phone numbers, VoIP numbers can function from anywhere, provided internet connections are available. They are not designed to work in specific locations. Corporate businesses use this feature to acquire local numbers in some markets to save their customers long-distance call charges. However, this feature also makes VoIP attractive to scam callers.
- VoIP numbers are mobile, and users can place calls when on international trips or unable to use their regular phones. Regular phone numbers must, however, be roamed to function outside their carriers’ coverage.
Can You Make Free Internet Calls?
Yes, you can make free calls using the internet once some requirements are in place. Internet software or application is a mandatory requirement for making free internet calls. You can initiate free calls over the internet in the following ways:
- PC to PC: To enjoy free VoIP calls between two computers, install the same software on both computers.
- PC to Phone: A right VoIP software installed on your computer will let you make free internet calls from it to regular phone numbers.
- App to Phone: There are some VoIP applications for mobile devices that facilitate free internet calls to be regular phone numbers. Install them to make free calls.
- App to App: Mobile device users with the same applications installed can communicate at no charge over the internet.