So you’ve heard that you can use your computer to make cheap long-distance calls over the Internet. Maybe you’ve even tried it. Chances are though that if you’ve attempted VoIP calls over a dial-up connection, you’ve experienced intermittent quality, ‘call drop-outs’ and annoying speech transmission delays. The good news is that there are some quick, easy steps that you can take to dramatically improve the quality of your VoIP calls over dial-up connections.

There’s a lot of hype these days surrounding Internet-based voice communications (VoIP) replacing traditional telephone service. Most of this revolves around companies such as Vonage who coin themselves as the ‘Broadband Phone Company’. So what about those of us who don’t have a broadband connection? Just because you don’t have high speed Internet, doesn’t mean that you can’t save a fortune by using VoIP for your long-distance calls. Whilst a broadband connection will usually result in more consistent VoIP call quality, comparable results can be achieved using a dial-up connection provided some simple guidelines are followed.

Shop Around

Not all VoIP service providers support dial-up users. Companies such as Vonage bill themselves as alternatives to traditional telephone service and shy away from the dial-up community (who are tied to those ‘traditional’ networks to access the Internet). Furthermore, some service providers only support dial-up above a certain speed (e.g., 56Kbp). Two companies whose VoIP softphone applications work well over low speed connections include Callserve and Go2Call.

‘Free-up’ your System Resources

In order to ensure the highest call quality, close programs that are running in the ‘background’. For Windows users, these applications can be seen in the taskbar at the bottom right of your screen. ‘Right-click’ the icons and close those programs that aren’t critical to system security (e.g., don’t close anti-virus software, firewall applications and the like).

If you’re using Windows XP with user switching enabled, log off all users except the one that will be used to make the call. This will prevent the other user identities from running software and/or using your bandwidth while you’re making calls.

‘Free Up’ your Internet Connection

Given the limited data capacity of dial-up connections, it’s important that you devote as much of your bandwidth as possible to the VoIP softphone application. To achieve maximum call quality, don’t do anything that uses your bandwidth whilst making calls. This includes instant messaging, checking email, using a webcam, browsing the internet, downloading, etc. In Windows, you can look at the two little computers in the bottom right of your taskbar to see whether your connection is being used prior to calling (the little computers illuminate when data is being uploaded and/or downloaded).

Scan your System for Viruses, Spyware, Adware and Malware

Some of these malicious programs can hijack your browser, tie up your internet connection and slow down your system (not to mention seriously invade your privacy!). I recommend AdAware for free scanning and removal of Spyware/Adware. Once you’ve checked and cleansed your system of these nasty programs, your virus definition files should be updated to minimize the chances of re-infection.

Use a Headset with an Integrated Boom Microphone

Last but not least, using a headset with a boom microphone should eliminate those annoying voice echoes often associated with PC to phone calls. Echoes are caused by your microphone detecting the voice coming from your computer speakers and re-transmitting that voice signal back to the person you’re talking to. By using a headset, the voice signals are limited in volume (due to the headset being directly adjacent to your ears) and thus the chances of your microphone ‘re-transmitting’ those voice signals is greatly reduced.

So there you have it. A lack of high speed Internet needn’t mean a lack of PC to phone VoIP capability.

About the Author

Nathan is the owner of http://www.netphonedirectory.com which deals specifically with PC to Phone and PC to PC VoIP. The site includes a comprehensive directory of PC to Phone service providers as well as general information on VoIP and what you need to make inexpensive long-distance telephone calls using your computer

Short T/F quiz

1.T / F You can save a significant amount of money using VoIP rather than traditional telephone/cell phone calling methods.
2.T / F The minimum requirement for VoIP is a broadband (high speed) connection.
3.T / F VoIP security is not an issue to be concerned about because most computers are protected with firewalls.
4.T / F Over 75% of the world will be using VoIP for communication within the next 3-4 years.
5.T / F You can make all your phone calls anywhere in the world from your computer.
6.T / F Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are perfectly safe to use, especially if your computer is protected with firewalls.

Answers

1.The answer is True. In fact, it is the tremendous savings of up to 80% off traditional phone calling that makes VoIP attractive to consumers and businesses. The only equipment needed for VoIP is your PC and a microphone (if one is not built into your PC). Beware of VoIP service providers that require you to purchase additional equipment and/or sign contracts.

2.The answer is False. Although the public has been fed a steady diet that the minimum requirement for VoIP is a high speed (broadband) connection, this is absolutely false.

Over 90% of the VoIP providers have used this false premise as a smokescreen to take your focus off the fact that their priority was and is to line their own pockets rather than expend the time, effort, and funds to develop technology that incorporates dial up capability.

The technology required for dial up connections to use VoIP involves the ability to compress data packets down to a minimum size of 8 kbps prior to traveling over the Internet.

3.The answer is False. Security should be the most important feature of any VoIP solution provider. Firewalls do not incorporate protection for VoIP. VoIP security should incorporate protection against identity theft, Trojan horses, viruses, and worms.

Craig Pollard of Siemens advised that “Voice must be protected like any other application”. He further stated that, “Along with IT directors and telecom managers, a number of financial directors came to our road shows, which may not be surprising considering the damaging potential of VoIP threats if a network is not properly protected.”

Over 90% of VoIP solution providers do not operate on secure lines. These providers, in order to save a few dollars at your expense, operate on industry standard codec (encryption codes) and industry standard protocols which are publicly open and interpretable. Hacker friendly providers offer hacker manuals, software, programs, and even processor chips that makes accessibility to your computer from these industry standards – as enticing as chum is to sharks in a feeding frenzy.

When a computer hacker gains unauthorized access to your computer, their sole purpose is to steal your identity and sell your personal and confidential information to other criminal entities. In addition, they often plant Trojan horses, viruses, and worms into your computer.

4.The answer is True. Industry insiders such AT&T says, “VoIP traffic is projected to account for approximately 75% of the world’s voice traffic by 2007″. This suggests a major paradigm shift in communication.

5.The answer is True. Not only can you make all your phone calls anywhere in the world from your computer, you can also travel with your computer phone. Simply by bringing your unique number and password, you can download your phone with your entire contact list. Of course, PC to PC is usually free between subscribers. PC to telephones and cell phones typically involves fees at drastically reduced rates when compared to traditional calling rates.

6.The answer is False. P2P networks use industry standard codec (encryption codes) and industry standard protocols which are publicly open and interpretable.

John Ashcroft, Attorney General, in remarks at the High Technology Crime Investigation Association 2004 International Training Conference held on September 13, 2004 stated, “We have seen worms and viruses attackdisrupting basic servicesAnd with the increased use of the Internet and especially peer-to-peer networking, we have seen malicious code spread more quickly and infect more personal computers than ever before. The cost of these worms, viruses, and denial-of-service attacksreaches into the billions of dollars.”

P2P networks such as Skype operate by taking bandwidth (information carrying capacity) from customers on their service to assist other customers using their service – analogous to a symbiotic relationship. The tools that enable them to accomplish this are bundled in the software their customers agree to in order to download and access their VoIP service.

Another grave concern for both individuals and businesses when using P2P systems is unknowingly having your computer used as a supernode. A supernode occurs when your computer is arbitrarily assigned as a hub.

When you are running the software for P2P services, your computer’s disk space, bandwidth, and processing power are used to help other users on the same system operate their software more efficiently because of their own network or firewall constraints.

We as consumers still have a lot to learn about VoIP, as this technology is the new era of communication and is continuously being changed.

All VoIP service providers need to incorporate the protection, needs, and desires of its customers, as well as address security and dial up capability.

All VoIP service providers should invest in developing a proprietary patented technology that incorporates compression of data packets so that their VoIP can be used on dial up connections, as well as cable, satellite, and wireless.

All VoIP service providers should develop and create their own proprietary high end encryption codec with patented technology, simply because they do not want their customers to be victims of viruses, worms, Trojan horses, or have their identity stolen as a result of using their VoIP service.

Simply put, all VoIP service providers should place the protection, security, and needs of their customers FIRST. Of course, they are in business to earn profits, but it should not be at the expense of exposing their customers to unscrupulous entities.

Want to hear and experience what exceptional sound quality on optimally secure lines sounds like? Download a 7 day free trial at http://www.free-pc-phone.com and see for yourself.

**Attn Ezine editors / Site owners **
Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include the resource box as listed above.

About the Author

Dee Scrip is a well known and respected published author of numerous articles on VoIP, VoIP Security, and other related VoIP issues. Other articles can be found at http://www.free-pc-phone.com

What is VoIP?

First things first, VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. At a base level that means phone calls over your broadband connection. You really do need a high-speed connection to take advantage of VoIP to get phone calls comparable to a normal landline phone. Traditional “dial-up” connections are not really sufficient.

VoIP works in a different way to your home phone. Your home phone is based on an analogue network, whereas VoIP is based on a digital one. Essentially when you speak into a VoIP enabled phone or headset your voice is converted into digital packets; it is then compressed to help your Internet connection run more efficiently and then it is transferred down the connection much like an email. Once it reaches its destination the process is reversed.

Why might I want to switch to VoIP?

It’s a good question. We all have a working phone in our homes or business, why should we change? Lets look at the advantages and disadvantages of VoIP

Advantages

Well to put it simply – cost. VoIP makes calls significantly cheaper. And (Depending on your package) for a low cost monthly subscription local and national calls can be made for free, and international calls made at a significantly lower rate.

When you subscribe to a VoIP service it is possible to get a phone number for life. You will be able to take your number with you whenever you move (or even travel) with obvious benefits.
The contract packages that companies who are offering the service contain for the most part all the features and more that your current phone service supplier offers. You are likely to find most VoIP companies offering free voicemail, call forwarding, caller ID, call waiting, call waiting ID, 3 way calling, speed dialling and much more.

VoIP is very much in it’s infancy; the technology is progressing all the time. Future benefits that we may not be able to envisage yet are certain to appear, you current analogue phone system will not be able to compete.

Disadvantages

Your VoIP phones system will be exclusively based on your broadband connection, if you ISP has a period of service downtime then you will not be able to make calls. Additionally if your electricity supply has a power out then you will not be able to make any calls, this includes calls to the emergency services. Some providers have already got a work around with the emergency calls, so make sure when you decide on a supplier they provide this.

A further disadvantage currently is the set up of the VoIP is not the simplest procedure to undertake, though many suppliers will assist with installation.

The quality of the call via VoIP can be slightly less than your current analogue phone, but the technology is steadily improving, and before long you will not be able to tell the difference in call quality between the two mediums.

© Mike Bromley 2005
About the Author

The author runs asite about VoIP Service Providers
at www.speakonline.co.uk

Here are ten easy steps for going wireless with VoIP.

1. You will need an updated computer.

First you will need to have an upgraded computer that is
compatible with VoIP software. When you are comparing and
choosing service providers, take special note to see if they run
their programs on Windows, Linux, or MAC OS. If you use Mac or
Linux, don’t assume that all VoIP providers will have your needs
in mind. Technology advances everyday, and this includes
processor speeds, hardware, motherboards, memory, and video and
graphic cards. If you have a “dinosaur” of a computer, there is
little chance that VoIP will work with your outdated system. You
can check with the company’s requirements regarding their
standards for your computer.

2. You must have High Speed Internet access such as DSL, or
Cable

It is required that you have High Speed Internet before
purchasing VoIP services. There are a handful of companies that
will work with dial up connections, but the standard choice is
High Speed Internet. High Speed Internet connections allow for
the bandwidth needed as well as produce a higher quality audio
sound. When it comes to transmitting data, audio, and video
files, nothing beats High Speed. You will soon discover the
benefits to having a High-speed Internet connection, and then
you will ask your self why you didn’t go with them sooner.

3. Evaluate your Needs

You must decide why you want to switch to VoIP. A good idea is
to make a list and write down your reasons for wanting VoIP over
PSTN landline phones. If you are a residential homeowner and are
fed up with paying high fees for local and long distance, then
by all means, write that down. If you are looking for small
business solutions and want to incorporate all of your data,
audio, and video needs, then add that to your list. By composing
a list, you can clearly see what your needs are and what service
is best suited for you.

4. Choose between Residential, Business, or both

Many people opt to keep their business needs on PSTN, while
testing VoIP in their residences. Not soon afterwards, they come
to realize the potential benefits for their businesses as well.
If you have a home office, some service providers will have a
plan based on your needs as well. Some of the differences
between residential and business plans include faxing and email
capabilities, more long distance on “basic” and not “unlimited”
plans, and some companies even throw in amenities such as free
yellow book advertising. Again, writing a list down of what you
want in a VoIP service will help you better determine what your
telecommunication needs are.

5. Compare Service Providers

Now it is time to compare various service providers. There are
many sites on the Internet that will let you review and compare
different plans. Also, word of mouth is always a great form of
advertising. If you have friends and relatives who have switched
to VoIP, find out from them how they like their service
provider, and also inquire about any providers that they may
have had a negative experience with.

6. Select the plan that is Right for You

Now that your list is complete and you have compared service
plans, it is time to decide on a service provider. Choose the
provider that you feel best meets your needs stated on your
list. You will also have the choice of purchasing monthly or
yearly contracts, so know which option is best for you ahead of
time.

7. Purchase an Adapter for your telephones if your Service does
not provide you with one

If you don’t want to sit at your computer for every phone call,
you will need a phone adapter. This adapter will allow you to
use your household phones to take VoIP calls. Some providers
include an adapter with their services- others may not. Make
sure you find out if you will need to purchase an adapter.

8. Choose your Area Code and Phone Number

Many providers will give you the opportunity of selecting your
own area code and phone number. This is great for those who have
family and friends in a specific area, and who would like to
save them money on their long distance bills. It is also an
effective marketing tool for businesses that are targeting a
specific region.

9. Configure your Phone’s features

Your phone will come with a variety of features. You may
configure them through an Internet control panel. This allows
greater freedom to many. You will typically set up your
voicemail, call block numbers, and other features the same as
you would on your cell phone.

10. Spread the Word

Now that you are enjoying your new VoIP service, spread the word
and let others know how they too can save money.

About the author:


Michael Plante operates a free articles site, href="http://go-article.com">http://go-article.com. Offering
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