A broadband phone is used with a broadband Internet connection to make phone calls. Telecommunication companies set up infrastructure that can transfer voice data from one end to another, allowing consumers to make calls through traditional digital phones without realizing that the calls are being transmitted via the internet. The voice is received from the phone and broken down into data packets and sent through the internet to a receiving station. The receiving station then translates the data back into voice data so that the intended receiver understands the information sent as if he was talking to the person with the use of a regular phone. A slower Internet connection makes the voice signal choppy and unclear, so it is important to have a quality broadband connection.

Let’s take a step back and examine what the uses are for broadband phone service. More specifically, the technology behind it. Broadband phone service is utilized by a technology called Voice Over IP (Internet Protocol), or VoIP. It utilizes the bandwidth (the “speed” in layman’s terms) to send voice packets. These packets are sent like any other data (i.e. email, web browsing etc.). When they reach their destination the data packets are reconstructed and converted into voice!

All of this happens in a fraction of a second but many issues can arise to degrade the broadband phone service quality. A slow connection, bad phone, over-utilized bandwidth and a bad service provider can all degrade the quality of the phone call.

Nowadays, instant messaging Internet applications have voice messaging capabilities. Although consumers need a computer to make calls with this method, voice messaging uses the same technology. In fact some providers want to make the experience as traditional as possible–so traditional that phones can be connected to the computer. By using this technology, consumers can simply use their existing broadband connection to make free Internet phone calls.

In addition to the features and services that each broadband internet phone provider offers, you should also look at their levels of customer service. Things do go wrong from time to time but Vonage offer full 24/7 support via their web site. If you are considering a broadband internet phone, Vonage may be the best place to start your research as given their renowned customer service, quality products and keen pricing you will have a solid base to move forward your investigations.

Not techie? You don’t have to be. Most broadband phone companies will send you a broadband phone adapter or DTA that you can install yourself in about five minutes or less. They even have online diagrams for those who want a visual interpretation, not to mention tech support. Just a few snaps of a couple wires, and sometimes a quick phone call and you’re on your way to money saving bliss. Still not convinced? Then just give that computer geek you know a call to help you set it up. Once you see it done, it’s so easy you’ll never forget.