Skype vs. VoIP

After reading this article, you will be fully familiar with the VoIP protocol that is used by Skype for communication. The article will discuss in details about what they are and their features. If you are interested in this topic, read this article and watch our video.

Skype is a software installed on a computer, or telephone that provides VoIP service, a voice communication service that enables people to communicate with each other with calls, videos and text messages.

An introduction to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is needed before we are about to discuss Skype. VoIP is a technology that converts analog voice signals into digital data through the Internet. The analog voice signals are cut into small data packets when they are transferred to an endpoint.

In order to be able to make VoIP calls you need several devices such as a computer, a VoIP telephone or an ordinary telephone that can work with or without an adapter. The most important element in making VoIP calls is the broadband Internet connection. Furthermore, a headset or a microphone and a loudspeaker is required if the VoIP call is established.

There are many advantages of using VoIP service. VoIP is a one-wired system that means the data flows on one channel. It is accessible and can be modified anywhere, independently from your location. You can make video and phone calls with VoIP and usually offers in most cases free or low cost calls.

About Skype

    Skype is a VoIP service that means it uses VoIP technology to make free calls. It is an application on computers and also mobile devices. The application provides free voice and video calls and instant messaging.

    skype vs voip
    Figure 1 - Skype vs. VoIP

    Features of Skype include free video and Skype calls, group video calling and it is also possible to call mobile telephones and traditional landline phones. Further features are voicemail, caller ID, file sending, SMS, online numbers, instant messages and Wi-Fi compatibility.

    You can connect to Skype on mobile telephones, on TV when you use video calling and on game consoles as well. If you want to use Skype on your mobile phone, an Internet connection is needed.

    Skype is compatible with many PC operating systems such as Windows, Mac and Linux and also compatible with mobile phones: Android, iPad, iPhone, Symbian and Windows Phone.

    There are different methods of paying for calls using Skype. You can use the following services without any charge: a phone call from Skype to Skype, sending instant messages, video calls and screen sharing. You can have pre-paid services that means you have Skype credits that allow you to call phones, expand the list of the features and send SMS messages. You can also subscribe for a package that means you have to pay on a monthly basis.

Ozeki Phone System can build up communication via a VoIP service that is provided by a VoIP provider. If you download Ozeki Phone System you can connect it to a VoIP provider and every features and functionalities mentioned above will be accessible that you can fully exploit and use for your needs.

For related topics, read the following articles:

If you became interested in this topic, please watch our video:

Skype vs. VoIP (Video tutorial)

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