If you are interested in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and do not want to buy a new IP phone, you will need a piece of hardware called a router to change the analog signal from your traditional phone over to a digital signal carried over the Internet.
A VoIP router blends the abilities of a high-speed Internet router and an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) so that you have both services in one piece of hardware. If you have DSL or high-speed cable Internet service then you most likely you have connection through a modem or router. A VoIP router has features that are similar to the DSL modem the only difference is there is also a connection for the ATA port. Currently, there are two types of VoIP routers available.
The first type of router is one you purchase that comes connected with a particular service provider. If you subscribe to VoIP service over the Internet, many providers offer the router free of charge. You may choose to purchase the router from a store. In this case, the router comes with a pre-selected provider and all the software you need to install and download onto your computer. This software is usually limited to a trial period at the end of which you will need to subscribe with a VoIP provider of your choosing. The important thing to remember is to purchase a router that is compatible with your provider. Research what you want before you buy.
The second type of router is more of a generic VoIP router. If you purchase this, you can configure it yourself to your web browser. They work with a majority of VoIP service providers. This is a better purchase if you are not sure whom you want as a VoIP provider. Choosing this router allows you the flexibility to change VoIP providers without having to change your hardware. A word of caution here, if your strengths do not consist of configuring computers, it will be important to ask for assistance from your VoIP service provider to help configure the hardware.
Regardless, of the type of router you purchase they generally come with firewall protection. Everyone knows that protection while using the Internet is very important. The advantages of using a VoIP router are that you will save space by not having a lot of equipment to manage as well as money. Many times the cost of a VoIP router is less than what you are paying for an ATA or DSL router.
