Voice over IP Voice over IP (VoIP, or voice over Internet Protocol) commonly refers to the communication protocols, technologies,

methodologies, and transmission techniques involved in the delivery of voice communications and multimedia sessions over Internet Protocol (IP) networks, such as the Internet. Other terms commonly associated with VoIP are IP telephony, Internet telephony, voice over broadband(VoBB), broadband telephony, IP communications, and broadband phone. Internet telephony refers to communications services voice, fax, SMS, and/or voicemessaging applications that are transported via the Internet, rather than the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The steps involved in originating a VoIP telephone call are signaling and media channel setup, digitization of the analog voice signal, encoding, packetization, and transmission as Internet Protocol (IP) packets over apacket-switched network. On the receiving side, similar steps (usually in the reverse order) such as reception of the IP packets, decoding of the packets and digital-to-analog conversion reproduce the original voice stream. Even though IP telephony and VoIP are used interchangeably, IP telephony refers to all use of IP protocols for voice communication by digital telephony systems, while VoIP is one technology used by IP telephony to transport phone calls. Early providers of voice over IP services offered business models (and technical solutions) that mirrored the architecture of the legacy telephone network. Second generation providers, such as Skype have built closed networks for private user bases, offering the benefit of free calls and convenience, while denying their users the ability to call out to other networks. This has severely limited the ability of users to mix-and-match third-party hardware and software. Third generation providers, such as Google Talk have adopted the concept of Federated VoIP which is a complete departure from the architecture of the legacy networks. These solutions typically allow arbitrary and dynamic interconnection between any two domains on the Internet whenever a user wishes to place a call. VoIP systems employ session control protocols to control the set-up and tear-down of calls as well as audio codecs which encode speech allowing transmission over an IP network as digital audio via an audio stream. The choice of codec varies between different implementations of VoIP depending on application requirements and network bandwidth; some implementations rely on narrowband and compressed speech, while others support high fidelity stereo codecs. Some popular codecs include u-law and a-

law versions of G.711, G.722 which is a high-fidelity codec marketed as HD Voice by Polycom, a popular open source voice codec known as iLBC, a codec that only uses 8 kbit/s each way called G.729, and many others. VoIP is available on many smartphones and Internet devices so that users of portable devices that are not phones, may place calls or send SMS text messages over 3G or Wi-Fi.

VoIP is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to completely rework the world's phone systems. VoIP providers like Vonage have already been around for a while and are growing steadily. Major carriers like AT&T are already setting up VoIP calling plans in several markets around the United States, and the FCC is looking seriously at the potential ramifications of VoIP service. Above all else, VoIP is basically a clever "reinvention of the wheel." In this article, we'll explore the principles behind VoIP, its applications and the potential of this emerging

technology, which will more than likely one day replace thetraditional phone system entirely. The interesting thing about VoIP is that there is not just one way to place a call. There are three different "flavors" of VoIP service in common use today:

ATA -- The simplest and most common way is through the use of a device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor). The ATA allows you to connect a standard phone to your computer or your Internet connection for use with VoIP. The ATA is an analog-todigital converter. It takes the analog signal from your traditional phone and converts it into digital data for transmission over the Internet. Providers like Vonage and AT&T CallVantage are bundling ATAs free with their service. You simply crack the ATA out of the box, plug the cable from your phone that would normally go in the wall socket into the ATA, and you're ready to make VoIP calls. Some ATAs may ship with additional software that is loaded onto the host computer to configure it; but in any case, it's a very straightforward setup. IP Phones -- These specialized phones look just like normal phones with a handset, cradle and buttons. But instead of having the standard RJ-11 phone connectors, IP phones have an RJ-45 Ethernet connector. IP phones connect directly to your router and have all the hardware and software necessary right onboard to handle the IP call. Wi-Fi phones allow subscribing callers to make VoIP calls from any Wi-Fi hot spot. Computer-to-computer -- This is certainly the easiest way to use VoIP. You don't even have to pay for long-distance calls. There are several companies offering free or very low-cost software that you can use for this type of VoIP. All you need is the software, a microphone, speakers, a sound card and an Internet connection, preferably a fast one like you would get through a cable or DSL modem. Except for your normal monthly ISP fee, there is usually no charge for computer-to-computer calls, no matter the distance. If you're interested in trying VoIP, then you should check out some of the free VoIP software available on the Internet. You should be able to download and set it up in about three to five minutes. Get a friend to download the software, too, and you can start tinkering with VoIP to get a feel for how it works.

How VoIP / Internet Voice Works VoIP services convert your voice into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is converted to a regular telephone signal before it reaches the destination. VoIP can allow you to make a call directly from a computer, a special VoIP phone, or a traditional phone connected to a special adapter. In addition, wireless "hot spots" in locations such as airports, parks, and cafes allow you to connect to the Internet and may enable you to use VoIP service wirelessly. Types of Equipment Required: A broadband (high speed Internet) connection is required. This can be through a cable modem, or high speed services such as DSL or a local area network. A computer, adaptor, or specialized phone is required. Some VoIP services only work

over your computer or a special VoIP phone, while other services allow you to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP adapter. If you use your computer, you will need some software and an inexpensive microphone. Special VoIP phones plug directly into your broadband connection and operate largely like a traditional telephone. If you use a telephone with a VoIP adapter, you'll be able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may also provide a dial tone. Difference between making a Local Call and a Long Distance Call: Some VoIP providers offer their services for free, normally only for calls to other subscribers to the service. Your VoIP provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. It also means that people who call you may incur long distance charges depending on their area code and service. Some VoIP providers charge for a long distance call to a number outside your calling area, similar to existing, traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes. Advantages of VoIP Some VoIP services offer features and services that are not available with a traditional phone, or are available but only for an additional fee. You may also be able to avoid paying for both a broadband connection and a traditional telephone line. Disadvantages of VoIP If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with VoIP, there are some possible differences:

Some VoIP services don't work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power. Not all VoIP services connect directly to emergency services through 9-1-1. For additional information, see VoIP & 911 Advisory. VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings.

What is VoIP? Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a form of communication that allows you to make phone calls over a broadband internet connection instead of typical analog telephone lines. Basic VoIP access usually allows you to call others who are also receiving calls over the internet. Interconnected VoIP services also allow you to make and receive calls to and from traditional landline numbers, usually for a service fee. Some VoIP services require a computer or a dedicated VoIP phone, while others allow you to use your landline phone to place VoIP calls through a special adapter.

VoIP is becoming an attractive communications option for consumers. Given the trend towards lower fees for basic broadband service and the brisk adoption of even faster internet offerings, VoIP usage should only gain popularity with time. However, as VoIP usage increases, so will the potential threats to the typical user. While VoIP vulnerabilities are typically similar to the ones users face on the internet, new threats, scams, and attacks unique to IP telephony are now emerging. 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. In fact, you only need to pick up your phone and dial a number at the dial tone. You also may bring your adapter with you when you travel and make calls wherever broadband internet access is available. Produced 2006; updated 2008, by US-CERT, a government organization. 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 that are slightly larger than the typical thumb drive. 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. Behind the scenes, however, the included software is actually setting up a VoIP call. Software-controlled VoIP applications: softphones There are many software applications (softphones) that allow you to place VoIP phone calls directly from an ordinary computer with a headset, microphone, and sound card. Internet telephony service providers usually give away their softphones but require that you use their service. Together, these applications and services enable users to talk to other people using the same service at no cost, and to the rest of the world for a fee. Software-based VoIP applications are quite attractive to consumers because they often already have most of the components necessary to get started at little to no cost. Dedicated VoIP phones A VoIP phone looks like an ordinary corded or cordless telephone, but it connects directly to a computer network rather than a traditional phone line. A dedicated VoIP phone may consist of a phone and base station that connects to the internet or 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.

Requirements, Availability, and Service Limitations When considering VoIP service, you should not assume that its features, functionality, and options will equal those of traditional landlines; you should be familiar with the requirements, availability, and possible service limitations of VoIP service before switching to VoIP as either a primary means of communication or an enhancement to your current services. Requirements VoIP requires a connection to the Internet through an ISP, a VoIP service to extend the reach to traditional landlines, and VoIP software to actually place calls. Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) requires none of these prerequisites. It is important to note that Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) internet service uses traditional phone lines for your internet connection; in this case, you already have telephone service to begin with. You may wish to weigh the expected benefits of VoIP against these costs given your current operating environment. Produced 2006; updated 2008, by US-CERT, a government organization. 2

Availability due to power outages During a typical power outage, VoIP becomes unavailable because VoIP devices (computers, routers, adapters) usually rely on a power source to function. Traditional phone lines are usually still available during such an outage, which is a major advantage in an emergency. Ultimately, it may be necessary to use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with a VoIP installation if connectivity is desired during a power outage or some other kind of emergency. Availability due to bandwidth VoIP communication nearly always requires a high-speed (broadband) internet connection for reliable functionality. Even given typical broadband connection speeds, though, service interruptions or degradation of quality is possible due to high internet traffic. For example, if you are trying to place a VoIP call while other people are using a lot of bandwidth on the same internet connection, the sound quality of your VoIP call or general VoIP availability may be affected. 911 services 911 services are not guaranteed with a basic (VoIP to VoIP) setup. However, it is available with many of the interconnected services that extend VoIP connectivity to traditional landlines. You should not assume that 911 services are present and working (even with interconnected VoIP services) but should consult with the terms of your service agreement. The FCC has described some of the challenges of VoIP services and has provided tips for VoIP subscribers.