How VoIP Works

Calls over the internet

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has changed the way we communicate. It carries voice and video calls over the internet, with quality and speed that keep improving, and it has made communication much cheaper. BT Openreach is retiring the PSTN and ISDN networks, and VoIP is the replacement.

Some VoIP service providers offer their services through software on the internet, commonly known as a softphone. Calls between two softphone users can be free when both have an account with the same provider.

Types of VoIP

VoIP is much more than the ability to make a call. There are three ways to connect to a VoIP phone system.

Analogue Telephone Adaptor (ATA)

An ATA is an easy way to connect an analogue device, such as an ordinary phone, to an IP telephony network. Remove the ATA from its package, plug your phone into it, and you can make calls over the network. Occasionally an ATA has extra software that needs configuring from a PC.

IP phones

IP phones look much like normal analogue phones, with a keypad and handset. They connect with an RJ-45 Ethernet plug rather than the smaller RJ-11 plug used by analogue phones. A VoIP phone has the features and software built in to make calls over the network, so as long as it is connected to the internet you can make a call from anywhere in the world.

Desktops and smartphones

Computer-to-computer calling is one of the cheapest ways to make a VoIP call. You avoid the high charges telecoms companies make for international and long-distance calls, and pay only a monthly fee. You install a softphone app on your computer or mobile, and you need a microphone and speaker (a headset works well) plus a stable internet connection.

Our conclusion

VoIP is fast, reliable and affordable. With a softphone, IP phone or adaptor, you can start making calls in minutes, and the way you communicate will change for good.