VOIP

What is VOIP?

VOIP means Voice Over Internet Protocol. It basically means using (part of) your internet connection like a telephone

What are the benefits?

Free calls to other VOIP users.
The abiltiy to be contacted on the same number from anywhere on the internet.
The ability for more than one phone to be on the same number (these could be on different continents).
Multiple lines (eg for children to have their own phone and bill).

What do you need to use it?

Either a computer with the correct software (eg xlite)

or if you have a router you can buy hardware (such as the VigorTalk) that allows the use of a normal telephone handset, without needing the computer on.

(Some routers, such as the Draytek V range have this facility built in.)

You also need an account with a provider (eg Draytel, Sipgate, Gizmo or many more), just as you need an email account.

Are there different systems?

Yes. There is the standard system called sip (which is supported by Cisco) and is designed to be used in company telephone exchanges.

This is the system ITWorkshop uses and recommends.

There are also proprietary systems (Such as Skype and those found with other instant messenger systems), but these normally require a specific computer sytem to use and if your computer is too old, you can't just buy a box instead, you need a new computer.)

Do I need to be with the same provider as the person I want to talk with for free?

The providers come in two types open and closed. Open providers allow free contact to users of similar systems on other providers. Closed providers don't. (Skype is an example of a closed provider). ITWorkshop does not reccommend using closed providers.

My instant messenger allows me to talk, can I use this?

The answer used to be no, however some instant messengers use a very similar system to sip for their voice.

GTalk-To-VOIP has been set up to act as a gateway between these. Talking to VOIP phones is free on this service. You need to sign up. (This actually adds their gateway as a contact on your list.) Then you send a message to the Gateway. Type "call " then the sip address (which looks like an email address). Then enter. The gateway will call the address and then call you and connect you.

Currently MSN, Yahoo and GoogleTalk are supported.

I use Skype. What can I do?

There is nothing to stop you using both Skype and a standard sip account on the same machine.

You could also put in a feature request to Skype for the inclusion of support for the standard protocols and interoperability with other providers.

Can I phone a normal telephone?

This is down to the provider, most allow you to buy pay as you go credit for calling standard lines. Some provide freephone number access for free. The rates are generally better than standard phone charges.

Can a normal telephone call me?

Again this is down to the provider, some will even provide a local telephone number. This is often provided for free or with the first purchase of credit.

Is it really free?

Providing your ADSL is not capped of course, yes. The providers give you free VOIP access because they expect enough users will find the system so flexible, that they will use it for paid normal calls too. Note that some providers do charge for accounts, avoid these.

Can I click on a link in a webpage to make a VOIP call?

Yes, providing you have a suitable software IP phone installed and configured. (Some older programs do not work with links, and of course separate phones won't work).

These ITWorkshop Customers use VOIP