subject: Choosing Between Hosted Voip Providers [print this page] One of the largest advantages of technology and communications today is the invention of the VoIP, or the Voice over Internet Protocol. This allows you to make phone calls through a broadband Internet connection with the use of VoIP hardware and software. The costs of making phone calls through hosted VoIP providers is just a fraction of what it would actually cost using a mobile or landline phone, making this the communication tool of choice for businesses around the world.
If you want to install and enjoy the benefits of using VoIP, there are various providers you can choose from who can fit your business and personal communication needs. Most packages also include extra features that come in handy, such as teleconferencing, three-way, and even video-conferencing. It's also not a problem if you've never used similar technology before, because VoIP is extremely user-friendly. Some aspects of various providers that you should consider are:
For those who still doubt the effectiveness and usability of using VoIP over the telephone, some companies allow money-back services as well as a free testing period, so this is something you should consider if you're not yet totally sold on the idea.
Although it is a known fact that using VoIP for phone calls saves you as much as 60% in calling fees, each company will have their own rates and packages so you should shop around to find the plan that can cover you most effectively. The provider plays the biggest role in telephone bill savings, so this is something you should carefully assess. If most of your calls are targeted to a single destination, some providers allow a discount, so this is also worth a try.
If you would like to keep your existing phone number, some companies also allow you to personalise your VoIP line by giving you a number that you already own, instead of assigning you a new number. This is a more practical choice, as it will save you the time and effort of informing your friends and loved ones your new number.
VoIP is especially popular for businesses or people who call long-distance frequently, because of the extremely low rates and the savings one can get from using this. It's also best to canvass around for various hosted VoIP providers to find the ones that offer the best long distance rates, especially useful if you call a certain country a lot. In fact, some plans may even be able to give you discounts for a certain number of international phone calls made.
When you are installing your new, hosted VoIP system, you may want to ensure that the system works fully functionally before you decide to switch your existing number.
With all the benefits that VoIP has, most especially the savings in telephone bills, it's no doubt that it has become popular not only for business but for home and personal use. Although it is a fairly new technology, it has been proven to work very well.
