The Trendy VoIP for Home?
Unless you have been stationed at the base in Anarctica for the last 5 years, you know that VoIP is a very trendy way to communicate - but is it built to last?
VoIP promises of low cost-calling anywhere in the world, unlimited local and long distance calling and the ability to "dump Ma Bell" have all fueled the VoIP trend.
Businesses can now fax over VoIP lines, reduce costs significantly, and even video conference with VoIP at unheard of low rates. But what about VoIP for residential use? Is VoIP too technical for the average family? Is it reliable enough? Secure enough? Too expensive for home use?
At Home with VoIP
Unless you have an affection for your local phone company, or just like to contribute to their retirement fund rather than yours, there is no reason why every home in the country/world shouldn't be using VoIP!
All you need to welcome VoIP into your home:
Internet Connection of DSL or above - carried over the internet quality depends foremost on the speed of that connection. DSL, Cable, Satellite are necessary to use VoP. Dial-up, contrary to what some folks think - is not going to make you happy. Another option here is the newer "naked DSL" which is DSL without any phone lines. It is a bit more expensive a month ($20 or so) but if that is all you get, that is worth it to some.
Gateway - Connection between your computerand modem where your phone line plugs into either the modem or a wireless adapter. This gateway eliminates computer interference in your phone calls and is what allows you to talk and surf at the same time. Adapters can serve the same function by "adapting" your current phone to VoIP
Tips for using your VoIP at Home
- For best quality use a VoIP phone (IP Phone) Extra handsets: 5.8 ghz; up to 10.
- Try Videophones for the same monthly cost, you can see your family and friends in real time video! Great for military.
- Make sure your provider offer 911 Enhanced Service - that lets you call in an emergency without having to give name, address, and so forth. This loses precious time. Also remember that although you can travel with your VoIP, calling 911 on vacation will require you to state where you are and so forth, because the operator will see you with your home number and not know the difference.
- Power Outages - when the power or internet go out (in our case it would be the cable), you will lose phone service at your end. However, calls are still coming into your voicemail or to another cell phone or landline phone that you set as your forwarding number.
So with a little knowledge you can turn your home "high tech" with VoIP. Are you Ready?
Call or Contact us and we'll walk you through it!