Consumer Applications
For many residential subscribers, the chance to save money on calls is the main attraction of VoIP. Flat rate call packages and low-cost calls to mobile and international numbers, as well as free calls to other subscribers on the same network, make VoIP a compelling proposition.
But to see VoIP as just a low-cost substitute for a conventional phone line is to miss much of its potential.
VoIP services include features that traditional phone companies charge extra for, such as caller display, call forwarding, call return and sophisticated voicemail.
A voice over IP service will also support multiple phone lines and “virtual” numbers. The number of simultaneous calls a VoIP service can handle is limited only by the available broadband bandwidth: there is no need to pay to install additional lines.
Most hardware VoIP adapters have two telephone handsets sockets, giving support for two lines. Subscribers can supplement these ports VoIP-only phones that connect via Ethernet, or even a wireless connection.
Some VoIP services offer a separate fax line, especially useful for users working from home.
Using VoIP, you can also have what are known as virtual numbers. Each VoIP line can have several of these. You could set up a separate phone number for home and for work, or a local number in another country so overseas relatives can you without paying international charges.
And you could even set up separate numbers and voicemail boxes for family members, which could be ideal for households with a resident teenager.
