Voice over WLAN

Voice over wireless LAN (VoWLAN) is the use of a wireless broadband network according to the IEEE 802.11 standards for the purpose of vocal conversation. In essence, it is voice over IP (VoIP) over a Wi-Fi network. In most cases, the Wi-Fi network and voice components supporting the voice system are privately owned.

VoWLAN can be conducted over any Internet accessible device, including a laptop, PDA or VoWLAN units which look and function like DECT and cellphones. Just like for IP-DECT, the VoWLAN's main advantages to consumers are cheaper local and international calls, free calls to other VoWLAN units and a simplified integrated billing of both phone and Internet service providers.

Although VoWLAN and 3G have certain feature similarities, VoWLAN is different in the sense that it uses a wireless internet network (typically 802.11) rather than a cellular network. Both VoWLAN and 3G are used in different ways, although with a the two can deliver similar service to users and can be considered alternatives.

For a single location organisation it enables use of existing WiFi network for low, or no, cost of use VoIP (hence VoWLAN) communication in a similar manner to land mobile radio system or walkie-talkie systems with push to talk and emergency broadcast channels. There are also use across multiple locations for mobile workers such as delivery drivers, these workers need to take advantage of 3G type services whereby a cellular company provide data access between the handheld device and the companies back-end network.

A voice over WLAN system offers several benefits to organizations, such as hospitals and warehouses. Such advantages include increased mobility and cost savings. For instance, nurses and doctors within a hospital can maintain voice communications at any time at less cost, compared to cellular service.

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