Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the transmission of the voice through internet networks. VoIP provides the ability to transmit more than one telephone call on the same broadband telephone line. It provides a simple solution for adding another phone line to your business.

Often, many features that are very useful to business such as three-way calling, auto redial, call forwarding and caller ID are included. VoIP allows for integration with other web-based services such as data file exchange, audio conferencing and video conversation. Once you decide that VoIP phone systems would benefit your business, it is time to get the needed VoIP equipment.

When shopping for VoIP equipment and supplies, you must:

1. Analyze your business needs to determine which VoIP features you need.
2. Determine the number of internal and external local and long distance calls your business makes.
3. Get your business set up on local area network or wide area network to facilitate the installation of a VoIP system.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make sure you have an Ethernet broadband connection

Some high-speed internet services require USB connections, which are not compatible with VoIP providers. You do not need a new computer or new internet service, however. Fix this problem easily by getting a USB to Ethernet adaptor and installing it.

I recommend: Linksys and D-Link are both very reputable VoIP equipment providers.

Get high-speed internet service

VoIP does not work with dial-up or satellite. You need either cable Internet or DSL service in order to use VoIP phone systems.

I recommend: Comcast offers cable internet service across the nation and AT&T offers DSL across the nation.

Use a router for networking

A router is a necessary VoIP business supply only if you are networking together multiple computers or network devices. If there is a chance you will be using more than one computer in the future, it is probably wise to go ahead and get a router and set it up in your network at the time of VoIP service installation.

I recommend: Get a TrendNet or Motorola router.

Connect the VoIP service to multiple phones with a multiple jack connector

Purchase a multi-jack connector if you want to use multiple VoIP telephones phones with the service. A standard telephone line splitter can be used for up to two phones in the same room. Another option is a wireless phone jack for a multi-room phone system.

I recommend: Try a NINCO jack connector or an RCA connector. These are two reputable makers of business telephone equipment.

Buy VoIP phones

Traditional phones cannot be used with VoIP service. Most VoIP providers require that you only use VoIP supplies they provide. When getting service, find out which kind of phone is compatible.

I recommend: Some of the most popular VoIP equipment providers are Nortel, SoundPoint and Avaya.

Get VoIP gateway service

A gateway provides a usable connections between VoIP and traditional phone systems and fax machines. A gateway accepts calls or faxes, determines the point of origin and is the cheapest and best way to route the call. It is not essential, but wise for businesses to keep call costs down.

I recommend: Gateways come from 2 port to 8 port.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Get laptop add-ons to use VoIP away from the office.
• •  Shop around for the best VoIP business supply; do not only go straight to your ISP.
• •  Make sure that your Internet speed is sufficient before beginning. Just because you have DSL or cable doesn't necessarily guarantee the required speeds.