As consumers, we're used to seeing prices go up. But rarely do
we get to enjoy sizable price cuts, especially when it comes to
basic utilities and necessities - like phone service. But using
new technology, you really can save hundreds on long distance. In
fact, you can talk as long as you want for one, low monthly fee.
Here's how: VoIP, short for Voice over Internet Protocol, uses
your existing broadband Internet connection, be that cable or
DSL, for handset phone service.
A few years back, this technology was shoddy, at best. You could
get free long distance calling, but you paid the price in hollow,
garbled voices on the other end. So this technology never
succeeded in capturing mainstream telecommunication customers.
But today, companies like Vonage have tapped into this same
technology, offering high-quality phone service at a fraction of
the cost you would pay to the phone company.
Set-up and installation is easy for anyone familiar with basic
Internet and computer functionality. You simply plug your
Internet cord into a router box, much like hooking up cable TV.
Then you connect the router box with your phone. You can use
wireless telephones that network together, offering as many
peripheral handsets as necessary, each requiring just an
electrical plug. An average, unlimited plan covering long
distance across the U.S., Canada and Mexico is just about $30 per
month.
Other perks included the option to receive voicemail as an audio
file via email, online archival of voicemail and historical call
logs, the ability to transfer your existing phone number and the
option to select any area code you desire, so family or friends
can call you using their local area code and avoid long distance
charges. Most VoIP providers also offer Caller ID.
But like all good things, there are downsides. VoIP services
require electricity and an Internet connection. So should you
lose power or Internet connectivity, you also lose phone service.
Further, 911 Emergency registration is the user's responsibility
- and optional. So its highly advisable to enter your correct
street address to expedite and automate emergency service
deployment.
Finally telecommunications technology has advanced, offering
consumers steep discounts and much wanted freedom. Look into all
of your options and balance the pros and cons to determine
whether or not VoIP is right for you.
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Copyright (c) 2006 Vasrue.com. All Rights Reserved.
Peter Welch writes about Computers and the Internet.
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