Practical Law Glossary Item 3-502-0732 (Approx. 3 pages)
Glossary
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
A method for transmitting voice communications over data networks such as the internet. VoIP applications enable certain electronic devices to:
Convert a caller's analog voice signal into digital data packets.
Transmit the data packets over the internet to a specified recipient.
Reassemble the data packets into the analog voice signal at the receiving end for the recipient to hear.
These devices must be connected to a data network (preferably a high-speed network) for individuals to communicate using VoIP applications. Examples of VoIP-capable devices include:
Personal computers.
Mobile communications devices such as cell phones, tablets, and portable media players.
IP phones (phones with VoIP capability built in) that connect directly to the internet.
Standard phones that connect to a special adapter.