The Truth about Saving with VoIP

VoIP providers seem to have mushroomed in recent years and the promise of many is that subscribers can avail of free calls. Many are skeptical, however. Are free calls really possible with VoIP?

First, some background on VoIP is in order. VoIP means “voice over Internet protocol,” which is quite self-explanatory—it’s the technology that allows you to make phone calls over the Internet. You don’t rely on telephone lines which will be a relief to those whose residences cannot be “reached” for phone line setup by phone companies in their area. High-speed Internet connection, however, is required with VoIP, and there’s your first expenditure right there, although it can be considered negligible as most people consider it a necessity in their households anyway.

There are two ways you can make use of VoIP: through the computer and through the phone. If it’s the former, you need either a program to download and install on your computer or a USB device to pull up the user interface through which you can make and receive your calls. Unless you are provided with a feature that forwards your phone calls to a different number—your mobile phone perhaps—for when your computer is switched off, this would mean your computer has to remain on, which would mean additional electricity costs. If it’s VoIP through the phone, on the other hand, you’ll need an adapter to mediate between your modem or wireless router and your phone line and this naturally comes with a price tag.

Phone calls via computer-based VoIP can be free if it’s PC-to-PC just like if it’s home-to-home or in-network calling with phone-based VoIP. Most Voip providers charge extra for calls outside the network or when it’s PC-to-landline or home-to-cellular. So in the end, the calls themselves might be free, but there’s a limit, and some of the savings you get from unsubscribing from your phone provider will be used to pay for high-speed Internet and possibly additional electricity costs. VoIP is convenient and a better way to make and receive phone calls, but to maximize your savings you have to be wise in selecting the type, plan, and provider that will suit your needs best.