Setting up a network for voip

ivwshane

Lifer
May 15, 2000
33,349
16,727
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I'm thinking about making the switch to a voip solution but I'm not sure how I should set it up with my existing network and land line phone setup.


I currently have a standard wired land line setup with one line, I have a home network setup using a dsl modem, a pc (running clark connect) and a switch as well as a wireless AP.


What do I need to make my existing phones work with a voip setup (what's the easiest way to do it or alternatively, what's the cheapest way to do it)?

I really would like to have an asterisk pbx (trixbox) but I think I need to get a basic understanding of voip first but how easy would that be to add to my network (I do have a windows server running as well and I could run trixbox through VM).


If I had to or if it makes more sense to buy voip phones what are some good recomendations for voip phones that don't require a pc connection and where is a good place to buy them (a broad price range would help)?
 

bruceb

Diamond Member
Aug 20, 2004
8,874
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Whatever company you are getting your VOIP service from will provide an interface.
It can use your normal telephone sets.

There will be a box where your high speed internet enters your home. It will have 2
outputs .. one goes to your data modem / router ... the other to a special adapter
that will extract and convert the VOIP Signals so your in home phones will work
This output gets connected to your homes telephone wiring ...usually where it
enters your home . .. they will also provide a small battery backup so your
phone will work if power goes out
 

dphantom

Diamond Member
Jan 14, 2005
4,763
327
126
You will want to check but usually an adapter is included. Alternatively, you can replace your current home phone with something like vtech designed to work with a voip vendor like vonage. (not recommending, just an example)
 

bruceb

Diamond Member
Aug 20, 2004
8,874
111
106
They will provide the adapter when they install service
As to a dedicated VOIP phone, it is not needed for
home use ... a regular phone will work fine .. that is
how it is designed for the home user
 

Stoneburner

Diamond Member
May 29, 2003
3,491
0
76
what's the advantage of the voip phones that netgear and such companies offer? And what if you just want one phone connected through VOIP, is there a way to do it with just regular equipment (router, modem) plus a VOIP phone?
 

bruceb

Diamond Member
Aug 20, 2004
8,874
111
106
Those are used in an Office type setting where you need Multiple Phone #'s or Extensions,
you need a Hold Button or Call Transfer, etc ... also they can be set up to get their VOIP IP
Address automatically from your VOIP Router ... for home use, they are not needed as you
will have only one IP for the one Dial Tone