Comments on: Debating Skype again

By: Andy C

Andy C — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:09:56 +0000

I use skype quite a lot with work Matthew, and even include my Skype ID in my work email signature.
When i use skype through the computer it seems to be in general pretty good unless the hamsters are running hard. I then bought a SMC skype WiFi mobile – connects directly to a wireless network without the need for a PC which is great, although the performance isnt so good and I had to update the firmware myself to get it to connect for the 1st time. You can also configure skype to display your mobile number when you call people so they think you’re using your mobile. I see more and more people using skype for their work though, and quality is slowly getting better in general.

By: Matthew

Matthew — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 09:55:44 +0000

Steve, thanks for that. I didn’t know about QoS before, but having done some research it does appear to be exactly what I need to ensure a good service. Unfortunately my broadband modem doesn’t support QoS, so I shall have to look around for a replacement at some point. Anyone got an old (but not too old) broadband router spare?

By: Simon

Simon — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:43:17 +0000

Hi Matthew!

I used Vonage for three years when I lived in Colchester, and thought the service was brilliant. On the surface they’re more expensive than Skype, but when you factor in all the extras you need to pay for with Skype, there’s probably not much in it. My experience was that call quality was much better than Skype’s, and it’s more flexible-you don’t have to rely on your computer being on. If it wasn’t for the fact that I have to use mobile broadband because of where I now live I’d still use Vonage!

By: Steve

Steve — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:37:00 +0000

If you are going to run a business on VoIP, there is one thing that is absolutely essential, and that is Quality of Service, or QoS. If you don’t have that then even loading a webpage while you are on the phone can break up the conversation. There are a few routers around with QoS build in and many VoIP providers sell them already configured for their service.
I can highly recommend voipfone.co.uk as a business VoIP service. (Other good ones include Gradwell and Sipgate) Voipfone offer high reliability, pre-configured routers and phones, and you can transfer your number to them. I also have them divert my VoIP number to my mobile if anything goes wrong.