How do internet phones work?
Internet phones, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phones or IP phones, work by converting analog voice signals into digital data and transmitting them over the internet. Instead of using traditional telephone lines, VoIP phones use internet protocol (IP) networks to make and receive calls.
The basic working principle of internet phones involves several steps:
Conversion of analog voice signals: When you speak into the microphone of an internet phone, the analog voice signals are converted into digital data. This process is known as analog-to-digital conversion.
Compression and encoding: The digital voice data is then compressed and encoded using various audio compression algorithms, such as G.711, G.729, or Opus. Compression helps to reduce the size of the voice data, making it easier to transmit over the internet.
Transmission over IP networks: The compressed and encoded voice data is split into small data packets. These packets are then sent over the IP network, which can be a Local Area Network (LAN) or the internet itself. The voice packets are routed through various network devices like routers and switches until they reach their destination.
Decoding and decompression: At the receiving end, the voice packets are reassembled and decoded using the same compression algorithms used during encoding. This process is known as decompression.
Conversion to analog voice signals: Finally, the decompressed digital voice data is converted back into analog voice signals using a digital-to-analog converter. These analog signals are then played through the phone's speaker, allowing you to hear the other person's voice.
Internet phones can make calls between other IP phones or traditional landline phones. In the latter case, the digital voice data is converted back into analog signals at a point called the VoIP gateway, allowing communication with conventional telephones.
VoIP phones offer various advantages, such as cost savings, mobility, and advanced calling features. They rely on stable internet connectivity to ensure clear and uninterrupted voice communication.
