VoIP Facts and Information

Consumer Information | VoIP Service

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Voice over Internet protocol (VOIP - otherwise known as Internet voice, broadband phone service and Internet telephony) is a technology that allows you to place and receive phone calls using a broadband Internet connection rather than the traditional (analog) phone line.

Some VOIP services only allow you to call people who are with the same VOIP provider as you. Others allow you to use your Internet voice the same as you would a regular telephone - allowing you to make local calls, long distance calls and even international calls.

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.