VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. As the term suggests, VoIP tries to let go voice (mainly human) through IP packets and in definitive through Internet. VoIP can use accelerating hardware to achieve this purpose and can also be used in a PC environment. VoIP allows to make telephone calls using a computer network, over a data network like the Internet. VoIP converts the voice signal from a telephone into a digital signal that travels over the internet then converts it back at the other end so that one can speak to anyone with a regular phone number. While placing a VoIP call using a phone with an adapter, one hears a dial tone, which is just as he or she always does. VoIP may also allow to make a call directly from a computer using a conventional telephone or a microphone. 

One way to place a VoIP call is to pick up the phone and dial the number, using an adaptor that connects to the existing high-speed Internet connection. The call goes through the local telephone company to a VoIP provider. The phone call goes over the Internet to the called party’s local telephone company for the completion of the call. Another way is to utilize a microphone headset plugged into the computer. The number is placed using the keyboard and is routed through the cable modem.
 
A broadband (high speed Internet) connection is required for using VoIP. This can be through a cable modem, or high speed services such as DSL or a local area network.  A microphone can be hooked up to the computer. Voice can be sent through a cable modem or a phone can be directly connected to a telephone adaptor. The above stated are some of  the important functions of VoIP Technology.