VOIP (Voice over the internet) basically
Asterisk has given us the ability to provide a low cost solution to calls.
For example,
We can call the UK for 1.3 cents per minute (using IAX with VoipJet) via asterisk (linux PBX). VoipJet also charge 1.3 cents for local calls to anywhere in the USA (billed in 6 second increments).
I purchased a SIPURA SPA-1001 phone converter (which basically converts your normal phone into a VOIP capable phone). This device comes with 2 lines (one which I’ve setup to talk to my asterisk server to hand out my own extentions – ie Kristy, myself and the boys all have our own extentions and line 2 is pointing to SipPhone).
VOIP can be implemented using different internet protocols, for example SipPhone uses a protocol called SIP, whereas VoipJet use IAX. IAX combats firewall problems with ease, whereas SIP can get stuck trying to traverse.
SipPhone also allow you to purchase Virtual Numbers. I purchased 1 for my parents in England which allows them to call us for the price of calling somebody in Nottingham (locally). I also purchased one for my work so external people can call a virtual number and it get’s forwarded to my VOIP phone. I can also modify the end point of this number to point to a conference call, cell phone, etc… the possibilites are endless. These virtual numbers are $5 per month.
Asterisk is a wonderful server application which allows us to bridge all the different internet protocols together to provide a seamless VOIP solution.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Asterisk ROCKS.
