VOIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol is the process of transmitting the human voice via the internet. It is becoming extremely common for many to use services such as Skype, Google Talk, and others to cut down on the cost of traditional telephone or cellular phones. This service has also become extremely common in a lot of online PC gaming typically being a requirement for most gamers. No matter your need to use VOIP for online communications, you should be using it in conjunction with a VPN to maximize benefits.
Can You Hear Me Now?
There are a few very popular VOIP providers such as Skype, Google Talk, Vonage, and Facetime/iMessage for iPhones and iPads. Skype and Vonage closely resemble traditional phone services with a variety options ranging from free to tiered pay plans. Skype is on most platforms even being integrated into the upcoming Xbox One for users to have free video conversations with friends and family. It is available as an app on most smartphones allowing free calls to other skype users so long as both are on a WiFi connection. Vonage is notable in that it is the first of these companies to include the ability to make emergency calls (i.e. 9-1-1). Facetime is an integrated apple product allowing iPhones and iPads to communicate with other iPads and iPhones over the web and recently via a mobile phone connection.
Why Do I Need A VPN?
Using a VPN for browsing the web typically means your data will be secure, stable, and most importantly anonymous. These same outcomes also benefit your VOIP calls and video conferencing. In addition to the more obvious benefits, using a VPN also allows you to bypass certain firewalls which restrict access to various functionality of the web, in this case specifically access to these VOIP programs. Governments and criminals alike have become interested in making use of the internet to intercept and gather data. This also includes phone conversations and video calls. Because VOIP uses the same connection as your web browsing, your VPN will also encrypt any transmissions sent via the internet.
What Do I Need To Do?
Strictly speaking, if you already use a VPN for normal web browsing services you won’t need to do anything extra to make use of one when making Skype calls. One thing to consider however is that in order to ensure the best quality call possible, you will want to be connected to the fastest VPN possible and that is controlled by a couple aspects. The number of available VPN servers your provider has on offer will affect net performance. If your provider only has a few server but many users, the connection could be highly congested resulting into poor quality audio and video or in some cases the call will be dropped altogether. You should also use a server that is as close to you as possible. If you use your VPN to bypass firewalls that would restrict your access to VoIP programs you will be connecting to a server outside of that particular region, just make sure you’re connected to the nearest possible server.
We’re Here To Help
To help you find the best VPN provider to make VoIP calls, we have put together a table of the top VPN providers highlighting their pros and cons. This information can get you well on your way to finding a provider who best suits your needs.
| Rank | Provider Name | Starting Price | Money Back Guarantee | Visit Provider Site |
 |
ExpressVPN | $6.67/month | 30 Days |  |
| 2 | Hidemyass | $6.55/month | 30 Days | |
| 3 | IPVanish | $10.00/month | 7 Days | |
| 4 | StrongVPN | $21/ 3 months | 7 Days | |
| 5 | VyprVPN | $14.95/month | 7 Days | |
