VOIP
•communication that allows you to make phone calls over a broadband internet connection.
•Some VoIP services require a computer or a dedicated VoIP phone
•others allow you to use your landline phone to place VoIP calls through a special adapter.
VoIP configurations
•Dedicated routers
These devices allow you to use your traditional phone to place VoIP calls.
They are connected to cable/DSL modems (or any high-speed internet source) and allow you to attach an ordinary telephone.
Once configured, and with an appropriate VoIP provider and service plan, these devices require no special software or interaction with a computer.
•Adapters (USB)
These devices also allow you to use a traditional phone to place VoIP calls.
They usually come in the form of USB adapters
They feature a standard modular phone jack to which you can attach an ordinary phone line.
Once connected, your phone behaves as if it were connected to standard phone service.
•Software-controlled VoIP applications:
There are many software applications (“softphones”) that allow you to place VoIP phone calls
Using an ordinary computer with a headset, microphone, and sound card.
Software-based VoIP applications are quite attractive to consumers
they often already have most of the components
Can start at little to no cost
•Dedicated VoIP phones
A VoIP phone looks like an ordinary corded or cordless telephone
it connects directly to a computer network rather than a traditional phone line.
may consist of a phone and base station that connects to the internet
it may also operate on a local wireless network.
Like the VoIP adapters mentioned above, dedicated VoIP phones also require a provider and service plan.

