Facts & Questions
1. What exactly is an internet phone?
An internet phone is any phone or phone system that uses the internet rather than the plain old telephone system (POTS) to carry voice (or sound).
2. What is VoIP?
For the most part VoIP is another word for internet phone. It stands for “Voice over Internet Protocol. It is the technology that enables phone calls to be made over computer networks like the Internet. I prefer to use the word internet phone because it’s less geeky and easier to remember.
3. What do I need to set up an internet phone?
- An internet connection.
- A telephone, computer, or smartphone.
- A phone number (SIP credentials) from an internet phone provider.
- An ATA (internet phone adapter) – if you want a regular phone to ring. You can lease this from your provider or buy your own.
4. Do I need to buy service from an internet phone service provider if I already have Internet?
Yes. You need to buy phone service from an internet phone provider. Some Internet providers offer phone service and so you can sometimes buy from your current Internet provider. However, most providers strictly provide internet phone service.
5. I don’t know if my internet is good enough?
In most cases your internet should be good enough. Generally you need bandwidth of about 128 kbps or more to get an internet phone to work well. Nowadays the internet is super fast so if your internet isn’t good enough you probably already suspect it. There are some people who get internet phone service to work on dial-up but I wouldn’t recommend. If you have dial up, just try out Skype. To test the speed of your internet check out the Tools section.
6. Can I use an internet phone on a 3G or Wi-Fi connection?
Yes. Internet phones work on smartphones and over a Wi-Fi connection, for example at your local Starbucks. If you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, keep in mind that the more people sharing the connection the less bandwidth you’ll have for your phone call (so your call quality may be affected).
7. Some companies allow you to BYOD? What does that mean?
BYOD is the abbreviated term for “Bring your own device”. The device refers to the ATA – internet phone adapter. The big internet phone providers generally encourage you to lease the adapter from them and in return they provide tech support. Then when you end their services you usually have to return the adapter. If however, you buy your own adapter you get to keep it and use it again. You also get more options and control over your internet phone.
8. Should I BYOD?
It depends. You don’t necessarily have to be the most technical person but you probably should be the do-it-yourself type. If you’re the type of person that can’t be bothered with reading a manual or doing some research then you should probably skip this. A lot of providers discourage you from going down this path, but personally I think its because they want to keep you in the dark and they want to keep you dependent on them. This path will probably require some of your time – a weekend of research perhaps, but in the long run you’ll save money and be less dependent on your internet phone provider. If this is something you’re considering check out the Do-it-yourself section for more tips, benefits and information.
9. What about 911?
Most internet phone providers now provide 911 service. This service is different than traditional emergency service. It requires that you register your home address and you must update it if you move.
10. I don’t want to change my number?
You don’t have too. You can port your number to the internet.
Most companies allow you to do this. The porting process can take from 10-20 days on average and in rare cases it can be longer. Some companies will give you a temporary number while you’re waiting.
11. Can I get a new number?
Yes. You can get a new number if you like. You can completely replace your old phone or get a new one to augment your existing one. You can even get an area code for an area that you don’t live in to stay in touch with loved ones or business associates and clients.
12. Why should I bother with an internet phone?
Big savings. Even if you already have a good long distance plan – it’s probably not as cheap as an internet phone. Just ask yourself how many phones is your household paying for already?
13. I don’t know if there are internet phone services for my area.
If you can get a decent internet connection for your location then you can get an internet phone. The main issue is whether you can get an area code for your location. Most area codes are available, but you should check with the provider first. If not, you can always get one for the closest metropolis to you.
14. I don’t have the time.
If you’re on this site you’re probably considering an internet phone, and so you might as well get as informed as possible. You really don’t need to spend that much time and even so its worth the investment in the long run. Don’t be the last to take advantage of this great technology.
