VoIP help

[RGiskard]

Can anyone point me in the direction of some kind of guide or info on what VoIP options there are for a small business that has a few key personel always traveling?

[M/Q]

I would be curious to learn why you felt this was a better option than just a good cell phone plan? Especially while traveling, as VOIP is not as prevalent and available as cell access. Also one has to realize that VOIP is not as secure or private as a cell phone technology. Cell phones are not perfect either in this regard, but the number of people that can intercept and interpret information from a cell phone is way less than VOIP.

Here are two of the most popular VOIP systems. I would be careful about Skype as Ebay just purchased them and I am not sure what that means.

http://www.vonage.com/

http://www.skype.com/

[JPnyc]

If they're always travelling do they always have access to broadband? Because obviously VOIP isn't an option if they don't. But assuming they do and assuming they bring their laptops with them, then I'd check out the 1 I use, iconnecthere.com. All you need is the software phone, a headset mic, and broadband and you're all set. 1.2 cents a minute to anywhere in the US and Canada.

[Planet]

Interesting scenario. I would be curious to see the need for a traveling person to have a VoIP phone with them when they travel. From what you’ve posted, I would have to agree with M/Q and JP. Get a cell phone, it’s going to be easier, more secure and more dependable.

[JPnyc]

Well if they travel with a laptop and always in hotels that have broadband, a VOIP with a software phone will work great. It's secure as a cellphone is.

[Planet]

Saw this (http://money.cnn.com/2006/01/06/technology/voip_biz20/index.htm?cnn=yes),
don't know if helps or confuses the issue any more.

[M/Q]

I hope to mean no dis-respect, but VOIP is not remotely as secure as GSM phones. Only if you are running through a VPN, which is suggested for important conversations. VOIP has all of the short-comings that data TCP/IP networks have. Also it depends on the application you use as well, since some use a central server arrangement, while others use the P2P configuration such as Skype. I just wanted to mention that as to not give false impressions to future users of the application.

I still wish the OP would explain his thought process as I would think that the travelers should have cell phones anyway.

[JPnyc]

Well I would guess he's looking to cut the use of cell phones to save $

[M/Q]

I totally agree with you JP and it is a good idea, but my only issue is that it is not ready for prime time. I am not a betting man, but I would go out on a limb for a buck and say that the person has a cell phone and it has unlimited minutes, no roaming charges and no long distance. And if they do not they need to get a better plan as they are a dime a dozen and not that much.

I truly wish the OP would come back and help the round table as this is interesting.