History

Initially developed in 1995, VoIP was not commonly used until high-speed Internet access became more available. VoIP was popularized in the late 1990s by the Skype Internet messenger program; however, it attained widespread use in 2004 when Internet telephone companies began providing service.

Benefits

VoIP offers consumers access to unlimited, low-cost, flat-rate domestic and international calling plans. The service also allows consumers to enjoy free unlimited PC-to-PC voice and video calls via computer-based programs like Skype, Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Live Messenger.

Size

VoIP calls are transmitted via small, lightweight Internet adapters that plug directly into a high-speed Internet connection or a computer's USB port.

Features

VoIP includes popular landline telephone features such as call waiting, caller ID, call forwarding and fax service. VoIP also provides transcribed voicemail, call routing and virtual phone numbers.

Geography

VoIP adapters can be transferred to and used from any location as long as a high-speed Internet connection is present. Additionally, VoIP subscribers can choose whatever area code they desire; for example, if you live in Denver and your family lives in New York, you can select a New York area code and your family can call you without having to pay long-distance charges.

Source:

WhichVoIP.com: The History of VoIP

Skype.com

Vonage