VoIP is taking the Internet world by storm. VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol is the technology of taking audio and transmitting it as data over the Internet. Traditional phone lines use Circuit Switching (think of the switchboard operators), which is an electric current. VoIP uses Packet Switching that converts audio into data packets and transfers them over the Internet. VoIP is the technology used behind combining Instant Messaging and voice. Many companies are now incorporating free VoIP with their Instant Messaging programs. All that is required is that both parties (or more than two) are using the same program. For instance, the new Yahoo Messenger (actually called Yahoo Messenger with Voice) will let you call your buddies. You will need a microphone and speakers attached to your computer to be able to talk and hear, but these items are cheap and can easily be purchased. Yahoo Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, MSN, are all integrating with VoIP. This gives people a taste of VoIP, before going out and purchasing VoIP services for their homes or offices.

It is simple to download any of the new VoIP enabled Instant Messengers. They are all free to download. You simply go to their websites, and click on any links that are for the installation of the program, and then follow the instructions. You will need speakers and a microphone-and of course, a soundboard. If you would like to incorporate video with your Instant Messaging, you can hook up a small digital camera or web cam. By combining your audio and video with your free Instant Messenger program, you will have a full quality experience.

This is just a precursor of what the future of VoIP will unveil. There are simply a few glitches in VoIP such as 911 and wireless hotspot issues, for the long run, we can tell that by companies incorporating VoIP shows that they at least believe it will be a strong force.

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