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Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is a telephone service over the Internet. VoIP software converts voice signals to digital signals that can be sent via a broadband Internet connection or LAN connection. Using a computer network, VoIP allows you to make telephone calls via your computer. Described as the commercial realisation of the experimental Network Voice Protocol ([1]) developed in 1973, and more recently refined in the mid 1990s, VoIP is steadily emerging as the next big new technology trend and will transform the global telecommunications industry through its practical applications.
The first VoIP software application was released in 1995 and worked on the premise each caller (on either end of the conversation) had exactly the same equipment and software. Using the Internet to send compressed voice signals, the application represented the first IP telephone, however primitive by today's standards. By 1998, a number of businesses in the United States set up gateways for IP phone conversations which allowed users to make free long distance calls using IP telephony software and a broadband connection (cable, DSL or LAN)([2]).
According the US's Federal Communication Commission, at present, some VoIP services will only allow you to call other people using the same service, while others allow you to call anyone with a telephone number, including local, long distance and international phone calls ([3]). Most VoIP systems use one of two main protocols; SIP (Session Initiated Protocol) or H.323.
According to a 2005 PC Magazine reader survey ([4]), Vonage is the most popular server of choice for VoIP users with 40 per cent of the vote. Vonage uses VoIP adaptor handsets to operate through an existing phone line. Another popular provider, [http:www.skype.com Skype], scored 13 per cent of the vote. Skype is a PC to PC service, which requires the use of a computer.
VoIP, though celebrated for its relatively inexpensive operation cost and accessibility, is not without teething problems. VoIP works through a computer network and requires and uninterrupted power source to function. In the event of a power failure use of VoIP will not be available. Another drawback of VoIP is the ability, or inability in some cases, to make Emergency calls. This phone calls placed over IP are hard to locate geographically which causes routing problems, meaning the Emergency call cannot be redirected to a local help centre. See VoIP - Disadvantages.
Experts say VoIP in its present form is not ready for the mass market. There are still problems regarding sound quality, access, availability and market competition from the mobile telecommunications industry that need to be addressed, however VoIP is expected to account for up to 40 per cent of all voice traffic in the near future ([5]).
--Alison Martin 09:46, 28 Oct 2005 (EST)
