Before switching to VOIP

VOIP THE GOOD & BAD

VoIP has lots of advantages over a regular phone service. However, like any technology, there are a few kinks in the system. However, it has become more reliable and has achieved greater acceptance. Will VoIP eventually replace all traditional phone service?

One of the main advantages of VoIP is the low cost. If you have a fast Internet connection (DSL or cable) you can great price even on unlimited calling and international calling plans.

Another advantage of VoIP is portability. With companies like Vonage you can take your number with you where ever you go, the adaptor that is used with that service is assigned a unique number. This 'phone number' remains valid even if your VoIP service is in Cleveland and you are connected to the Internet in Bangkok. They even offer a "soft phone" allowing you to use your laptop as your phone. The best part is people still think they are calling you at your office.

There are many other features that make VoIP attractive. Call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, caller ID and three-way calling and many other features not available in a land line phone are some of the many services included at no extra charge, some companies even include a music on hold option.

Disadvantages

With all this going for it, it's a wonder that anybody still uses regular phone services. However, there are a few disadvantages to VoIP. Continuous service during a power outage and emergency calls are two of the biggest problems.

During a blackout a regular phone is kept in service by the current supplied through the phone line. This is not possible with Internet phones, so when the power goes out, there is no VoIP phone service. One solution to this problem is to use battery backups or power generators to provide electricity, forwarding the number to a cell phone during an outage is also a work around.

Another major concern involves emergency 911 calls. Traditional phone equipment can trace your location. Emergency calls are diverted to the nearest call center where the operator can see your location in case you can't talk. With VoIP, you will most likely have to let the service know where the modem is physically located and update that info anytime you move the adapter to a different address. Some companies offer advanced e911 features, check with the provider.

VoIP can also have problems with sound quality and reliability. Remember it is sharing bandwidth with your computer or your network.

• Many people and business confuse VOIP with a hosted PBX. This article was just about VOIP.
  

Just some things to consider of you are thinking about making the switch from your regular phone to VOIP. I have been using Vonage for my business since 2003 and have been more than happy.

By Carmine Monte
www.holdtel.com