In any case, the telephone has been around for more than one hundred years, and has really changed very little during that time. Traditional telephony first made way for cellular technology, and more recently, for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

When setting up your small business, one of the most important choices you must make is what type of phone service to use. Many people are choosing to go completely cellular, forgoing landlines altogether. That’s fine for personal use. But you probably won’t be taking part in any conference calls at home, and it wouldn’t impress your clients if you couldn’t get a wireless signal. You need to find reliable conference call services so you can be available when your clients need you. When it comes to your business phones, the realistic choices are landlines and VoIP. Which one should you go with?

The first step in making that choice is to understand what VoIP is. Everyone knows how a telephone works. You call the phone company, they turn on the phone line, you plug your phone into the wall, and you can start making calls. Ok, it’s a little more complicated than that, but there’s not need to get into all the technical details. But how does VoIP differ from traditional phone service? Basically, rather than making and accepting calls over traditional phone lines, your calls are transmitted via the Internet. Rather than plugging your phone directly into the wall, you plug it into a VoIp adapter, which is connected to your computer. You still use your phone the way you always have, but your calls are traveling over Internet lines rather than phone lines.

It’s still a bit more technical than that, so to make the best choice for your business needs, it might help to learn some advantages and disadvantages to both landlines and VoIP.

Advantages of landlines

Traditional telephone technology has been around much longer than VoIP. Phone companies have a well established infrastructure, and the resources to quickly correct problems when they arise.

Regular telephones connect directly to phone lines. Because there is no need for electricity, they will work even during a power outage.

According to an independent study, landline phones work 99.9% of the time, making them still the most reliable phones available.

Disadvantages of landlines

Service providers may charge extra for features such as caller ID, call waiting, and call forwarding.

While directory assistance is readily available, most phone companies charge for the service.

Advantages of VoIP

It’s less expensive because the voice signals travel over the Internet. Internet connections are established most often via cable networks. Though less frequently nowadays, Internet connections may also exist via DSL or dialup, both of which use phone lines. The cost for VoIP is lower because the signal conveyance method already exists.

Many VoIP providers offer extra features such as call waiting, caller ID, and call forwarding at no extra charge.

Disadvantages of VoIP

If your Internet connection is down, your phone is down. Not all VoIP services require your computer to be on to make calls, but they do all require that your Internet connection be active. If for any reason you lose your Internet connection, you also lose your ability to make and receive calls.

VoIP service is not as reliable as traditional phone service, dropping more calls on average. This can produce problems that range from general annoyance when you’re chatting with a friend, to being detrimental to your business if it happens during a conference call with your client.

Many VoIP services do not work with the 9-1-1 emergency services network. If the service you choose doesn’t connect directly to this service, it’s a good idea to have another phone as a backup.

Not all VoIP providers offer directory assistance.

Some VoIP services don’t work if the power goes out. This is because while your computer may not have to be on for VoIP to work, your phone must still be connected to your Internet modem, which requires electricity to function.

Whether you choose traditional phone service or go with VoIP will really come down to what your specific needs are, and what features are most important to you and your business.

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Landlines vs. VoIP – Which is better for your business?

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Landlines vs. VoIP – Which is better for your business?

AT&T Ringbacks

If you are an AT&T customer, you know ringback tones as “answer tones.” To setup your answer tones, all you need to do is visit the AT&T wireless Web site. You’ll see a list of available answer tones where you will be able to preview them to see if that’s what you want your callers to hear. Once you have chosen an answer tone you like, click the “Buy” button. Answer tones cost $1.99 each per year, and the service will cost $0.99 per month. At this point, you will be prompted to login to your account. If you do not have an AT&T wireless account, you will have to create one.

Once you have logged in to your account, you will be able to complete your purchase and use the answer back tone. Within the account, you should see the option to “Manage My Answer Tones.” This will allow you to set which answer tones callers will hear. Answer tones can be set for days of the week, each contact, or certain times of the day. Setting up answer tones can also be done through your handset if you have access to MediaNet or Media Mall. Prepaid customers can also get answer tones for an additional $1.00 delivery fee.

T-Mobile Ringbacks

T-Mobile customers know ringback tones as “caller tones.” To setup caller tones, visit the T-Mobile Web site. To access the tones, you’ll need to subscribe to the service for $1.49 per month and $1.99 per tone. Subscribe to the service through your online account. From there, you’ll be able to preview, purchase, and setup caller tones.

To setup caller tones from your device, dial: *TUNE (*8863). Currently, caller tones are not available to prepaid customers.

Verizon Ringbacks

Verizon customers know ringback tones by that name. To setup ringback tones, visit the Verizon Web site. Simply preview a tone, click “buy” and login to your account to complete the purchase. From within your account, you’ll see an option to “Manage Ringback Tones.” From here, you’ll be able to set ringback tones for individual callers, days of the week, and times of the day.

Ringback tones are available for a fee of $1.99 per tone per year and $0.99 per month for both contract and prepaid customers. They can be purchased and managed from your handset by going to: Get It Now > Tunes and Tones > Get New Tones > VZW Tones Deluxe. If you don’t have the VZW Tones Deluxe app on your phone, you can choose the “Get New Application” option after the “Get New Tones” menu. The app will allow you to find, preview, purchase, and set ringbacks.

Sprint Ringbacks

Sprint customers know ringback tones as “call tones.” To make use of this service, you’ll need to visit the Sprint PCS Web site and login to your Sprint account. If you do not have one, you will have to create one. Once in your account, look for the “PCS Vision Services” link. Choose “Content Catalog.” This will allow you to preview the call tones before making a purchase. When you find one you want, purchase it. It will then move to the “My Content Manager” where you will be able to handle assignments to callers based on groups, individuals, or time of day.

To purchase and manage call tones from your phone: Use your phone’s web browser to navigate to the Sprint PCS Vision Web site. Choose: Downloads > Caller Tones. Find the call tone you want and choose “Buy Now.” From here, you can choose assignments following these steps: Click “Add/Remove Numbers.” Then enter the 10 digit phone number to assign the call tone to and repeat as necessary for all numbers you want to hear the call tone.

Ringback and Ringtones

Ringback tones are different from regular ringtones in the sense that ringbacks are offered and hosted by your carrier. This is why there is a monthly or annual charge for the service, and also why you cannot find and download your own ringbacks.

Ringtones can be purchased and downloaded directly from your wireless carrier or from a variety of Web sites. The following Web sites require registration and verify your phone via text message.

• Myxer offers free ringtones to many wireless customers, though you will have to pay for the download if you’re not using an unlimited data plan. Verizon wireless customers receive their tones through a PIX message so they will pay a text messaging fee.
• PhoneZoo is another service very similar to Mxyertones, offering free and custom ringtones to nearly all wireless customers.
• SendMeMobile Ringtones is similar to Myxtones and Phonezoo, except a $9.99/month service charge is billed to your cell phone bill for each month the service is used and carries ringtones for all of the major cellular services including harder to find Sprint ringtones.

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How to Customize Your Ringback Tones

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How to Customize Your Ringback Tones

What is VOIP anyway? VOIP is an acronym that stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. What does that mean? There are plenty of technical manuals that you can read that will spell out the specifics of audio protocol and data storage, but the basics are these: VOIP takes analog audio signals (the same signals sent via telephone wire) and turns them into digital data which is then sent over the internet to another converter that turns the signal back into an analog signal and delivers it to the person you are talking to. This is how VOIP users can talk on the phone to people who are not VOIP users. The digital signal takes up less space than the analog, which means the communication happens faster than it does during regular phone calls.

What are my VOIP options?

When it comes to using VOIP there are a few user options available. Many people choose a device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor). This is a device that acts as a translator between your regular telephone and your internet connection. You simply plug one end into your phone and the other into your internet source and then continue making calls as usual! Another option for people who want to switch to VOIP is an IP Phone. The IP Phone looks exactly like a regular phone but it connects to your internet router with an Ethernet cable. Finally, for those who don’t want to bother with special equipment, VOIP calls can be sent from computer to computer. This is the easiest way to use the technology and it is definitely the cheapest option. All you need is a microphone, speakers and a sound card and you can chat away!

What are the Cost Advantages to VOIP?

With the economy spiraling out of control, it is completely understandable that your household budget is under some scrutiny. The fact is, VOIP is quite a bit cheaper than most of the “regular” phone and calling plans that are available. In fact, in some cases, VOIP service is free for those who choose to make calls with their computers!

Even for those people who want to keep using their regular telephones (or an IP phone) VOIP is definitely more cost effective than most of your traditional phone services. In fact, if you have a broadband connection to the internet, you can eliminate your home phone line completely! Many of the services that come in your VOIP package are “extras” on a traditional phone service. Even better, you can access your VOIP from anywhere with your computer, which means you can cut down on the amount of time you spend on your cell phone while you are traveling. International calling is also much less expensive with VOIP than a regular phone line. If you make international calls on a regular basis, using VOIP could save you hundreds of dollars!

3 Hints to Help You Choose a VOIP Service

So now that you know how great VOIP service is, and how much better it is than traditional phone service, how do you choose a service? Here are some hints to help you chose the VOIP service that best meets your needs:

1. First, ask yourself what you need the most from your VOIP provider. There are plenty of companies out there that will try to “wow” you with extra features, but they might not have the features you actually need. What is most important to you? The best way to figure this out is to ask yourself why, exactly, you are choosing to use VOIP instead of traditional phone service.

2. Do your research. Do a search on each company you are thinking about using. Look for independent reviews of their services. Contact the better business bureau to find out if there have been any complaints made about the company.

3. Look into its 911 service. The better companies will have their 911 switchboards fully staffed and operational. The 911 dispatch offered by VOIP has had a few kinks to work out, so make sure that the company you want to use has a 911 dispatch that can truly help you if you ever encounter an emergency.

What about Porting Your Phone Number to Your VOIP Service?

Does switching to VOIP mean that you have to change your phone number? Not necessarily! Each VOIP service provider has different rules and methods for porting a phone number from a “regular” service to a VOIP service. Check with your chosen VOIP provider before signing up to make sure that the porting process goes smoothly.

The only problem most people have encountered is when they port their phone number to one VOIP service and then try to port the number to a different VOIP service. In fact, it is much better to port your traditional phone service phone number to your VOIP service than to get a new, VOIP-provided, phone number. This is because you don’t own VOIP phone numbers the way you do traditional phone numbers. Legally, a “regular” phone number belongs to you, but you need to make sure you are aware of the laws regarding porting a telephone number in your area and check with your VOIP providers before switching services.

How do VOIP Costs Compare to Current Phone Service Providers?

In terms of home phone service, unlimited long distance within the Continental US, here are the lowest rates offered the major VOIP providers:

Vonage: $14.99
Via Talk: $9.95
Zingotel: $19.95
Joi Phone: $17.95
VOIP: does not offer unlimited calling within the Continental U.S.

Here are the same costs from the major regular phone service providers. These are the monthly rates offered via each company’s website. Make sure to check your local providers for discounts that might be available in your area.

AT&T: $32.99
Cincinnati Bell: $39.99
Qwest: $20.00 added on to whichever local calling plan you choose
Comcast: $29.99
Verizon: $49.99

Traditional service is quite a bit more expensive than VOIP service!

In the end VOIP is the next generation in telephone service. With more and more people switching over to communicating via the internet (e-mail, instant messaging, video chat, etc); VOIP is the next natural step! After all, why pay for separate internet and phone lines when you can simply hook your phone up to your internet connection? You don’t have to worry about changing phone numbers as most VOIP providers will import your current number. VOIP providers also offer plenty of other additional features like money back guarantees, call waiting, voice mail, call forwarding etc. Of course, probably the best benefit of using VOIP is the money you’ll save every month!

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The Power of VoIP

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The Power of VoIP

Although the procedure can vary based on the countries and cities you are calling to, there are generally two ways you can place an International call. The first is by dialing direct. To dial direct, just use the following formula:

011 + Country Code + City Code + Telephone Number

For example, if you wished to call Berlin, Germany you would dial the following:

011 + 49 + 30 + the phone number of the person you are trying to reach.

Please note that the number of digits in the country codes and city codes can vary depending on the area. The second way you can place an International call is by using an operator. However, using this method is usually MUCH more expensive than dialing direct. To place a call using an operator, you would use the following formula:

01 + Country Code + City Code + Telephone Number.

You can find listings of Country and City Codes in most phone books or by doing an Internet search for International Calling Codes.

Saving Money on International Calling

International long distance rates vary greatly depending on the country you are calling and the way you make the call. Dial Around Services, International Calling Plans and Calling Cards often offer much lower rates than basic long distance providers do.

Dial Around Services

Most dial arounds begin with a code such as 10-10 followed by a three-digit access code. Some others are accessed by dialing an 800 number before dialing your final destination. Using a Dial Around Service allows you to “dial around” your regular long distance carrier and use another long distance carrier that offers cheaper International rates than your normal long distance provider - without affecting your regular long distance calls not dialed with the Dial Around Access Number. Before choosing a Dial Around Service, be sure to find out:

• Are there any monthly charges?
• What are the per minute rates?
• Are the rates affected by the time of day the call is placed?
• Are there any surcharges for each call placed?
• Are there extra charges for phone calls placed to cellular telephones?

International Calling Plans

An International calling plan is a monthly plan you get via your long distance carrier with previously quoted discount International calling rates and in most cases includes a monthly fee, usually between 3 and 8 dollars a month.

Also, some long distance companies who offer International Calling Plans also require you to use them for domestic (within the U.S.) long distance as well. Be sure that you compare the savings on the International rates to domestic rates which could be higher than what you currently pay for your domestic long distance. Before choosing an International Calling Plan, be sure to find out:

• Are there any monthly charges?
• What are the per minute rates?
• Are the rates affected by the time of day the call is placed?
• Are there extra charges for calls placed to cell phones?
• Are you required to use their service for domestic long distance as well? (If so, find out the rates and compare them to your current rates.)

Calling Cards

Calling Cards come in two forms - Pre Paid and Post Paid. With a Pre Paid calling card, you pay for your telephone usage prior to making your calls. They can be purchased in many different dollar and minute increments. You make calls by dialing a toll free access number and then entering a pin number prior to placing your call. A Post Paid calling card works the same as a Pre Paid card, with the difference being that you pay for the calls after you make them by being billed, usually monthly, by the Post Paid Calling Card Provider.

Calling cards generally offer discounted rates for International calling and can be used from any phone, which makes them a convenient choice for traveling. Before choosing a calling card, be sure to check for:

• Is there a surcharge for each call placed?
• Is there a monthly fee for each month there is use of the card?
• Does the card expire within a certain amount of time?
• What are the per minute rates?
• Are there extra charges for calls placed to cell phones?
• Are the rates affected by the time of day the call is placed?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

VoIP services basically turns your Internet connection into a phone line. Some services allow you to talk over the computer with a microphone and speakers. Others turn your Internet connection into a full fledge phone line that you can hook special VoIP phones into and talk just like you would on a normal phone. Services vary from very limited to an excellent replacement for local phone service.

VoIP plans usually offer substantially discounted long distance rates to International locations because utilizing an Internet connection is much cheaper than using a landline connection. Before choosing a VoIP provider, be sure to check for:

• Is there a surcharge for each call placed?
• Is there a monthly fee to be able to access the service?
• Are there extra charges if you are calling a cellular phone?
• What are the per minute rates?
• Are the rates affected by the time of day the call you place the call?

Tips for Saving on International Calling

Shop around when choosing a Dial Around, VoIP or Calling Card Provider. Be sure to check the “fine print” for the service.

Know your calling patterns. Figure out which countries you call the most and look for a service with the best rates to those specific areas.

Decide if you need to be able to take your service with you if you travel.

Be sure to review your bill closely and to call your provider periodically to see if rates have changed.

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International Calling Information

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International Calling Information

Cable modem services offer shared bandwidth between your and your neighbors. Your speed will vary with how many people are on the cable modem network, which may be a disadvantage. With DSL service, you have a dedicated connection to your home.

How Does DSL Service Work?

Traditional phone service connects your home or business to a telephone company office over copper wires that are wrapped around each other. The wires are called twisted pair. The digital modem, which may be purchased or rented, — located at your location — accesses the local telephone companies’ central office where a Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer, which translates your DSL signal, has been installed. The signal is then transmitted from the copper telephone line onto a network backbone, and directed to the ISP’s location, where the ISP verifies the access to the network and delivers users to the Internet through the ISP’s relationship with a backbone network provider.

What Types of DSL Service are Available?

There are currently at least six different types of DSL. They are Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL), ISDN Digital Subscriber Line (IDSL), High-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line (HDSL), Very high-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL), and Rate-Adaptive Digital Subscriber Line (RADSL). Each one has different technical ranges, capabilities, and limitations.

ASDL
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) has different speed in both directions. Basically, with ASDL, the rate at which information transfers down is different (and usually higher) than the rate at which speed transfers up. ASDL is the most typical type of DSL found in home use because most users need to download faster than they need to upload since they do more of the former. This allows you to put most of the speed into surfing and downloading information at fast speeds.

SDSL
SDSL (Symmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) has synchronous speeds. Information transfers down at the same rate that is transfers up. SDSL is a usual choice for businesses due to multiple computers usually accessing the same connection. With multiple users using an Internet connection, you can use more transfer up than that which would get used in a typical home setting where only one or a few computers would be accessing the single connection.

IDSL
IDSL (IDSN Digital Subscriber Line) also offers symmetrical transfer speeds at a fixed speed (thus limiting the choice of your speed rate to 144 Kbps). IDSL is a popular choice for users in rural areas where they are two far from a switch to obtain ADSL or SDSL, but want something faster than a V.90 connection offered by most dial up services.

HDSL
HDSL (High-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line) also offers symmetrical speeds. This is a service usually limited to commercial zones and is seen as an alternative type of T1 data transfer service. HDSL requires two phone lines to work.

VDSL
VDSL (Very High-bit-rate Digital subscriber Line) is the highest speed DSL connection, but with limited range. In order to use a VDSL connection, you need to be within a short distance from the central line.

RADSL
RADSL (Rate-Adaptive Digital Subscriber Line) is an ADSL technology that dynamically adjusts transmissions based on the line quality and the distance the transfer is traveling. RADSL, like ADSL, allows transfers to occur at different speeds in both directions.

What are the Advantages to having DSL?

Faster Speed
DSL and cable modems are much faster than analog modems. Different varieties of DSL provide different maximum speeds, from twice as fast to approximately 125 times faster than standard dial up services.

Always On
Your DSL or CM (cable modem) connection is always there. There’s no need to dial up and listen to your modem squawk. And there’s no frustration about the line dropping.

Flat Rate Service
DSL and CM typically don’t have usage-sensitive pricing, which means that the connection can be used any time for as long as you need without incurring usage charges. Technical advances enable prices to fall and gain in power, facilitating the creation and operation of global networks.

What are the Disadvantages to having DSL?

Distance
Distance between the user’s premises and phone company’s central office or cable installation is a primary factor deciding who can get these services and the speed of these services. Rural users usually can’t access ADSL and must an IDSL alternative if one is available.

Limited Competition
External providers must coordinate with local phone or cable companies to provide service, which may cause installation delays.

Security
Because DSL is always on, you may want to check with the provider about security vulnerability and precautions. DSL users should make sure they have a firewall software installed and protecting their system.

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DSL Facts and Information

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DSL Facts and Information

Needed Equipment

Some services work via your computer (while you utilize a microphone, speakers and/or special headset), some work by utilizing a special VOIP phone and others allow you to use a traditional phone that has an adaptor in place. Be sure to decide what way you wish to be able to use your Internet telephony service before choosing a provider who may not offer your method of choice.

One thing that is needed to access any VOIP service is a broadband Internet connection. However, the person you are calling does not need to have a broadband connection or any special equipment. It is only the person dialing out via the broadband phone service who needs it.

Advantages of VOIP Service

• VOIP is a digital service and therefore it may offer features and options that you cannot get with traditional phone service.

• If you already have a broadband Internet connection, you could eliminate your traditional phone line altogether and thus eliminate its cost.

• Some VOIP services charge flat rates per month while allowing you to call International locations at no extra charge. If you make frequent International calls, this could be a huge source of savings.

• Some VOIP services can be used while traveling, cutting down on overage minutes you may have incurred by using your cell phone for more minutes than your plan provided.

Potential Disadvantages of VOIP Service

• Some VOIP services may not work during power failures and if they don’t have a backup power source, that could leave you without a phone.

• VOIP could have potential issues in either connecting to 911, or allowing 911 to pinpoint your location without additional information from the calling party.

• VOIP providers may or may not have an agreement to be able to have their customer’s phone numbers listed in the white pages.

• If your broadband Internet connection goes down, you would be without your broadband phone service until it is restored.

Choosing a VOIP Provider or Broadband Phone Service

Choosing a VOIP provider doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Check below for a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a service provider. If you need more information about the different options for utilizing Internet telephony services, check out our voice over Internet protocol facts page.

Things to check into:

• If you make a lot of International calls - not including Canada - then you will want to check the provider’s rates for the countries you call and/or see if they have a flat rate International plan.

• If you plan to replace your current local phone service with broadband phone service, check on the status of backup power from your provider.

• Check to see if contracts or early termination fees exist.

• Know your calling patterns and choose the plan that is the best fit for your personal needs.

• Before you start reading the provider websites, brush up on your knowledge of VOIP terms so that you know and understand what you’re reading before you make a decision.

Other Frequently Asked Questions about VoIP

Does my computer have to be on to use it?

If you are making calls via your regular phone by utilizing an adaptor or through a special VOIP phone, your computer does not need to be turned on. If you make the calls through your computer using a microphone and speakers (or headset combo) then your computer will need to be turned on.

How do I know when a call is coming in?

The phone will ring the same as it does for any other call. If you are using your computer to make and receive calls, you will hear the ring come from your computer as long as you are logged into your VOIP network.

Is Internet Voice regulated by the Federal Communications Commission?

The role of the FCC in Internet telephony is far from firmly decided. Entirely Internet based service is considered to be an unregulated information service.

How do I know what all these acronyms mean?

If you’re confused when browsing plans and information about terms like POTS, SIC, MOS and more, you can check out our Internet telephony glossary.

How do I find an Internet Voice provider?

You can browse a list of recommended broadband phone service and VOIP provider companies here on our site to get general information and find links to the best broadband phone deals on the Internet.

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VoIP Facts and Information

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VoIP Facts and Information

Auto Attendant
This acts as an automated receptionist. Calls made to a certain number will reach a greeting asking which extension number they wish to reach. When the caller enters an extension number, the call is transferred to it. Common term for business VoIP users.

Call Duration
The interval of time between when you take the phone off the hook and when you hang it back up.

Call Hunting
Calling feature made for inbound calls that skip past a busy signal, trying several numbers until the call is answered by the person they are dialing.

Call Setup Time
The amount of time needed to establish a circuit switched call between users. This is measured in second increments.

Clipping
When a loss of speech-signal components occurs that results in initial or end parts of words being dropped. This loss of signal can also occur when two people try to talk at the same exact time.

C-Message Noise
A noise delivered on a channel (or circuit) with a termination, but no signal at the transmitting end as measured through a C-Message filter.

Codec
An algorithm of compression/decompressions that is used for IP telephony and other forms of streaming media.

CTI - Computer Telephony Integration
A reference to telephone systems that are utilizing computer technology.

Dial Tone Delay
The time it takes for you to hear a dial tone from when the phone is first taken off the hook. This time is measured in millisecond increments.

Direct Inward Dialing
This allows incoming calls from a public switched telephone network to reach a specific private network extension (PBX) being used by a business without needing human intervention.

DTMF - Dual Tone Multi Frequency
This is the system set up used by touch tone telephones. DTMF assigns a specific frequency to each key to make it easily identifiable by a microprocessor.

Echo Path Delay
The lapse of time between a transmitted signal and its reflection.

Echo Path Loss
The difference in signal strength occurring between a transmitted signal and its reflection. Echo path loss is dependent upon echo path delay.

Follow Me
A feature that allows your phone calls to follow you by ringing a series of numbers and moving onto the next after a set amount of rings until it finds the phone you are near and answer.

Frame Mutes
The number of and the length of time prolonged clipping events occur during a call where the damaged surface signal goes close to zero. The ratio of frame mutes to overall clipping occurrences is shown by the Frame Muting Ratio indicator.

Gateway
A network device that changes voice and fax calls in real time from the public switched phone network to an IP network.

High Availability
Devices or deployment strategies made to provide access to a fully functioning system during any time of day or night.

IETF - Internet Engineering Task Force
A consortium that was established to standardize and promote the standardization of newer Internet techniques such as VoIP.

IVR - Interactive Voice Response
A type of technology that allows a human caller to interact directly with a database without needing to use human assistance. Telephone banking is an example of IVR based technology.

MGCP - Media Gateway Control Protocol
The standard recognized by the IETF for converting voice signals sent over the public switched telephone network to data packets that can be sent out over the Internet.

MOS - Mean Opinion Score
The measurement of quality of human speech on a network shown as a rating index.

PBX - Private Branch Exchange
A telephone network for the private use of a business or enterprise. By utilizing PBX systems, groups of users can share outside lines and use phone features like call forwarding service.

Post Dial Delay
The amount of time between when the person making a call presses the last digit of a phone number and when the phone on the other end starts to ring. Otherwise referred to as user routing speed.

POTS - Plain Old Telephone Service
The phone service by regular phone companies that has been around as long as you can remember.

Protocol
Established rule for communications between computer systems and multiple devices.

PSTN - Public Switched Telephone Network
The different carriers that make up the world telephone network. Including local carriers, long distance carriers and international carriers.

QOS - Quality of Service
The ability of a VoIP network to deliver calls with a minimum delay and have a maximum availability to network users.

Ring Groups
Acts as a rotation if inbound calls. A group of local extensions that ring in unison so that when calls are made to the group number, any available person in the group can pick up the call.

RTP - Real Time Transport Protocol
The Internet protocol used by IP telephony systems and companies to stream voice and video.

SIP - Session Initiation Protocol
The IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) standard for starting, maintaining and ending a user session involving video, voice, chat, virtual reality, gaming networks, etc.

Speech Power
The measurement of the amount of strength in a received voice signal.

VOIP - Voice over Internet Protocol
The act of sending or receiving voice transmissions (i.e. calls) over an IP (Internet Protocol) network. Also know as Internet Telephony.

Wideband Noise
Noise level that is measured on a wideband IP channel when a signal is absent from the connection.

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Glossary of VoIP Terms

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Glossary of VoIP Terms

However, you are not doomed to pay more than you should on long distance for the next four years. There are several ways around the problem that can save you money and allow you to call home more often because of it.

Toll Free Numbers

A toll free number is also commonly referred to as an 800 number. If you call a specific number the most, you can set up a toll free number to ring to that line. You can get a toll free number with no monthly fee and rates as low as 4.5 cents per minute through PNG. You are not required to have regular long distance with them in order to get a Stand Alone Toll Free account. When checking out toll free service providers, there are a few questions you should ask so that you can make the most inexpensive decision based on your needs and calling patterns:

• Is there a monthly fee for having the toll free number?

• Is there a minimum amount of usage you need to meet each month?

• Can you choose what toll free number is assigned to you?

• Do you need and will your toll free number come with voicemail service?

• Should you choose to change providers; can you take your toll free number with you?

• What are per minute rates to place a call from within state and out of state to your toll free number?

• Do any special taxes or surcharges apply to calls or the service itself?

Calling Cards

Calling cards allow you to dial long distance from any phone and have the call be charged to your card. While many cards today are prepaid, you can also find post paid calling cards like the CogniCall Calling Card. CogniCall is 6.9 cents per minute to anywhere in USA-48 from USA-48 with no per call surcharges, no monthly minimums and no monthly fees. You are billed monthly for all calls with automatic credit card or check card billing.

Prepaid cards are another popular option. Many cards offer very low rates and allow you to make calls to any number at any time. Before you purchase a calling card - be it a prepaid or postpaid card - be sure to check out a few things:

• Are there any surcharges for each call you place?

• Are there any monthly fees involved in using the card?

• If the card is prepaid, will it expire after a certain amount of time?

• What are the per minute rates and billing increments?

• Does it matter what time of day you place a call or are the rates the same no matter when you place the call?

Cellular Phones

With so many cellular services offering free long distance minutes these days, it has become a popular choice among many college students as an alternative to using the dorm phones.

Make sure you look for a cellular phone plan with unlimited free nationwide long distance and that also has unlimited nights and weekends. Check around with other students in your dorm to find out which services work the best (we have heard from many students about services being available in their area, but not working well from within the college buildings).

Also remember to check and make sure that your cellular phone service will work not only at college, but also in your hometown for summer vacation and school breaks. Some things to ask yourself before making a decision:

• Does the plan have a contract and if so, what are the costs for early cancellation?

• Can you change plans without changing service providers at any time without incurring a penalty?

• If you don’t pass the credit check, what would the required deposit be or do they offer prepaid cell phone plans?

• What features are included? If not included, how much would any of your desired features cost in extra fees per month?

• Does the cell phone have unlimited nationwide long distance?

• Are there any charges for roaming?

• If you make International calls from your cell, ask for a rate for the countries you call most and see if they have a special International plan available.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

VoIP services can save you quite a bit by allowing you to use your broadband connection to make phone calls. Be sure to check if your school has any rules about using the school connections for VoIP services. VoIP can usually save International students the most money of any option available when it comes to calling home.

Broadband services can be done through the computer using a microphone and speakers/headset or you can find providers like SunRocket who have cordless phones VoIP phones available. There are also lower quality, but free VoIP options out there such as Skype (though in fairness, Skype has an upgraded service that works as well as most others).

For more information about VoIP service, how it works and what your options are, as well as what to look for in a provider, check out our VoIP consumer information page.

International Students

If you think you’ll be making a lot of International calls, you make want to check out our page with information on making and saving money on International calls.

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Long Distance Savings for College Students

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Long Distance Savings for College Students

How to Protect Yourself from Cramming:

• Review your monthly phone bill each and every month, just as if it were a bank statement or credit card statement.

• Check to make sure you recognize all the names of the companies listed on your bill. Keep track of what services were provided by listed companies, and learn what fees are for what service.

• If you don’t know what service was provided for a charge listed on your bill, call your telephone or long distance company and ask them to explain the charges.

• Make sure you know what even “small” charges are for. Crammers often try to go undetected by submitting $2.00 or $3.00 charges to thousands of consumers.

• Keep a record of the telephone services you have authorized and used - including calls placed to 900 numbers and other types of telephone information services. These records can be helpful when billing descriptions are unclear.

• Carefully read all forms and promotional materials, including the fine print, before signing up for telephone services or other services to be billed on your phone bill. Contact your agent or company with any questions you may have.

What to Do if You’ve Been Crammed:

• Immediately call the company that charged you for calls you did not place, or charged you for services you did not authorize or use. Ask the company to explain the charges. Request an adjustment to your bill for any incorrect charges.

• You can also report incidences of cramming to the FCC.

So what is “Slamming”?

“Slamming” is the practice of switching a customer’s long distance carrier without his or her knowledge or consent. It is illegal, under Section 258 of the Telecommunications Act.

How to Protect Yourself from Slamming:

• You can freeze your existing carrier, which prohibits another carrier from claiming that it has been authorized to request a carrier change on behalf of the consumer.

• Review your phone bills carefully each month. If you see any unfamiliar names, or charges that you cannot identify, call your local phone company and ask about these items. Never sign anything without reading it carefully.

• If you receive a phone call about long distance service and you are not interested in switching your service, be sure to tell the caller that you are not interested in receiving his or her service.

• If someone sends you a letter or postcard “verifying” that you have switched services when you did not initiate or consent to the switch, notify them that you did not authorize the change, then call your local telephone company to confirm that you are still with your preferred carrier.

What to do if you’ve Been Slammed:

• Call your local telephone company and tell them that you did not order service from the new long distance carrier and you would like to be reconnected to your long distance company. Also, tell your local phone company that you want any switching fees (charges for switching companies) taken off your bill.

• Next, call the long distance company you were switched from and report the switch. Ask to be reconnected. You should not be charged for this reconnection.

• Call the company that slammed you and let them know that all charges within 30 days of the slamming should be removed from the bill. Any other charges should be reduced to those that would have been charged by the authorized carrier. If this carrier will not adjust these charges, contact the FCC.

If you are unable to resolve your complaint with the company that switched your service, you can file a complaint with the FCC.

FCC Contact Methods

FCC stands for Federal Communications Commission and it is the governing body over telecommunications services in the United States. To contact the FCC, you can reach them by mail, phone or the web below:

Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554
Website: www.fcc.gov
Email address: fccinfo@fcc.gov
Phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC
TTY Phone Number: 1-888-TELL-FCC

As an independent government agency, the FCC is responsible for the regulation of radio, wire communications, satellite, cable and television as dictated in the Communications Act of 1934. The FCC also provides tons of consumer information about the above services and is committed to helping consumers protect themselves from and report fraud.

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Cramming and Slamming Facts

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Cramming and Slamming Facts

How Analog Cellular Works

Analog works much like a radio. Your cell phone broadcasts your voice into the airwaves of the cellular network at about 800 MHz. Analog calls are sent out on a single frequency or channel.

How Digital Cellular Works

Digital cell phones convert your voice into a digital format before transmitting it over the airwaves at about 800 MHz. Instead of one call per frequency or channel, digital is able to carry multiple conversations over a single frequency making it possible the digital cellular networks to handle numerous calls over the same channel at one time. Calls made by digital phones tend to be clearer than those made by analog phones. Digital formatting (as done with music and movies) tends to produce better results (think of a DVD vs. a VHS tape).

How PCS (Personal Communications Services) Works

PCS works much like digital cellular. The big difference is that PCS networks have a higher frequency range of about 1900 MHz. FCC regulations only allow one analog and one digital carrier to have operations in major metropolitan areas. But, they allow up to six PCS networks in one place. This makes PCS carriers compete and can help make costs, plans and customer service better for users.

Type of Service - Do I want analog cellular, digital cellular or PCS service? Compare the columns below to find the one most suited for you.

Any phone that transmits signals through the air without a physical connection. Cell (cellular), mobile, portable phones (hand held), in-car mounted and bag (transportable) phones are all considered wireless phones.

Choosing Your Package

Choosing a cellular package can be overwhelming. Here are some questions to ask yourself about frequency of use and your other needs to determine the best plan for you before going shopping:

Calling Options

• At what time of day will I be making most of my calls?
• On average, how long do I expect each call to last?
• How selective will I be in giving out my cell phone number? Remember: You’re paying for calls you receive as well as those you make
• Will I use my cell phone for long distance calls?
• How often do I expect to travel outside my home calling area?

Phone Requirements

• Will my phone need a clip so I can attach it to a piece of clothing?
• Do I need a flip phone to guard against it inadvertently being turned on? One that has a cover you flip-up to access the phone.
• Does my phone need to be designed for use in other countries

Looking for some great deals on cellular service? Click here to find top notch deals from T-Mobile, AT&T and more.

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Compare Cellular Services

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Compare Cellular Services