Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), or Internet phones, are still quite new for most people. We’ve gotten used to our normal, traditional phones—so what’s the hype with VoIP? What’s making it so popular, especially among business people?
Pros and cons of VOIP
VoIP is an upgraded version of your traditional telephone, which makes use of digital signals that can be sent over the Internet. What’s great about this is its connectivity and mobility. As long as you have an Internet connection (preferably a high-speed one), you can use your VoIP.
VoIP comes out cheaper, too, since unlike regular phone lines that transmit analog signals, you don’t pay monthly fees and surcharges. International calls won’t be too costly. If you have loved ones studying or working abroad, keeping in touch through a VoIP connection will lessen the hassle of long-distance communication.
There are, however, some downsides to using VoIP. A major one is the connection speed—sometimes calls get delayed by seconds, so you don’t really get to talk to each other in real time. It’s enough to get you annoyed, especially if you’re paying for the VoIP service. Bandwidth can also be a problem, especially if you’re participating in a video conference.
Pros and cons of regular telephone lines
VoIP spells convenience in cost and connectivity, but when it comes to reliability, you have to hand it to your regular landline phones. It’s probably the same system your grandparents used, but it’s still a system that works. Even without electricity, landline phones still work. Also, if you need that 911 service, landline phones are the better choice for you.
It’s still quite costly though, since it adds to your bills-to-pay list with all those monthly fees--more so, if you’re the type who makes international calls.
So do you go digital with VoIP or stick with old reliable landline? It all boils down to your needs. Figure out your phone priorities, then decide which connection really is for you.
