VoIP Takes On Another Flavor: P2P

Based on the same technology as peer-to-peer file-sharing networks, it allows users to hold phone conversations via computer or Pocket PC. Consider it a hybrid of voice, instant messaging and file-sharing, but with full dial-out capability. In fact, Skype, the first company to offer this technology, was started by two of the founders of the KaZaa file-sharing network.

All it takes to use the technology is a small, free applet installed on a computer or Pocket PC with a microphone and speakers or headphones. The software's users can contact each other for computer-to-computer communications for free, or dial up a traditional phone number for a modest fee. Calls to traditional phone numbers are charged at local rates regardless of the area code.

Employees at customer sites may find the technology an appealing way to skirt a company's phone-use restrictions. Its Pocket PC support may make it popular with gadget-loving execs, too.

Like the more sophisticated peer-to-peer file-sharing software packages, the VoIP variant pokes around until it finds an open port at the firewall, making it tricky--if not impossible--to completely eliminate its use. As an alternative to complete port-blocking, solution providers should consider using a bandwidth-monitoring/control solution that throttles back the bandwidth of such traffic to an unacceptable quality level. This can dissuade users from using the technology.

Solution providers also could eliminate users' software-installation privileges. This tends to be a difficult solution, however, as reducing installation privileges tends to cause some software to not work properly and at the very least interferes with loading legitimate applets during Internet browsing or drivers for USB devices.

On the flip side, the technology could prove an interesting platform for solution providers offering VoIP services once some of the limitations are overcome, such as the lack of emergency number support.

Of course, a customer could opt to have a single cell phone or at least one landline phone in the office for emergencies to avoid legal issues. The service also lacks special features such as conference calling, which may not be an issue for small businesses that don't use conference calling or enterprises that use an outside conferencing service.

Skype also supports international calls between many, but not all, countries at prices in line with other standard VoIP carriers.

What are your thoughts on peer-to-peer VoIP? Let me know via e-mail at [email protected].