Advantages & Disadvantages
of VoIP
Advantages
of VoIP
1. The
main advantage of VoIP broadband phone service is the cost. VoIP broadband
phone providers charge you a much lower monthly fee for local, long distance
and international calls than traditional phone service.
2. Some
VoIP providers (e.g. Skype) provide free PC-to-PC calls using their
software. However, there will be a service fee if you want to make
PC-to-Phone calls.
3.
VoIP broadband phone service provides features that are usually not
available with traditional phone service, such as virtual phone number, you
can choose a phone number with area code different from where you reside.
Friends, families or customers living in that area will only be charged for
local calls when they call your virtual number.
4.
VoIP service is usually bundled with free features (such as caller ID with
name, call waiting, conference calls, call forwarding) which are charged for
additional cost by traditional phone companies.
5. Even if
you already have a regular phone line, VoIP is a good low cost
alternative to add an additional phone line with extra features and low long
distance and international rates.
6. Mobility and
portability. You can use the VoIP service anywhere with broadband
connection. All you need are a laptop and a headset or just a VoIP phone
adaptor. Even if you are traveling, you can still enjoy the cheap
calling rates of VoIP service.
Disadvantages of VoIP
1. Some
VoIP services do not work during power outages or when the internet
connection is down. It is a good idea to install a backup power supply
or have a mobile phone as a backup.
2. The
9-1-1 service provided by VoIP service is also different from traditional
phone line. Traditional phone service generally associates a particular
phone number with a fixed address but VoIP services can be used from any
internet connection so the location of the caller cannot be determined
automatically. Therefore, it is important to provide an accurate address to
the VoIP provider and update this information immediately if this
information is changed.
3. Call quality is
affected by the quality of broadband connection and the performance of your
PC. So make sure you have good internet connection and both your
computer hardware and software are running properly.
Definition of VoIP
VoIP for Small Business
Best VoIP Providers
Advantages and Disadvantages of VoIP
VoiP International Calls
Ten Tips for Choosing a VoIP Provider
Satellite VoIP
Virtual Telephone Number
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