What is VoIP?

VoIP, which stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, is the technology that enables you to make and receive phone calls over a data network, such as the internet, instead of traditional analog phone lines. It is also commonly referred to as IP Telephony or Internet Telephony.

At its core, VoIP works by converting the analog sound of your voice into digital data packets. These packets are then transmitted efficiently over the internet and reassembled back into a clear audio signal on the recipient's end. This process is managed by communication protocols, with SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) being the most common standard.

While the technology was initially valued for its significant cost-saving benefits, its impact is far more profound. VoIP is the foundational technology that has revolutionized business communications. By breaking the link between a phone number and a physical location, it provides unparalleled flexibility and scalability.

Furthermore, VoIP is the "voice" component of modern Unified Communications (UC) platforms. It enables the integration of voice with other essential business tools—such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and file sharing—into a single, cohesive solution that empowers businesses of all sizes to communicate more effectively.