Things to Consider When Selecting a VoIP Phone Provider
Things to Consider When Selecting a VoIP Phone Provider
The
following are very important
factors to consider when you are selecting a VoIP/Broadband phone provider. Educate yourself and be informed before you choose.
Monthly
costs: A VoIP
provider can save you up to 75% or more on your telephone/long distance expenses. There are many VoIP providers out there so it will benefit you
from
shopping around. Unlimited flat rate calling packages can range from $19.95/month to as high as $54.95/month (per line). Usually the lower priced
providers
have more customers and are able to offer the service at a lower price due to a lower overhead per subscriber.
VoIP Product Features: Not
all VoIP
providers are created equal. VoIP offers a great value to the consumers because of the drastically reduced long distance costs as well as
inexpensive local
phone service with lots of enhanced features. Some providers offer more features than others. Features like Call Waiting, 3 Way Calling, etc. are
usually
included in the VoIP monthly cost where as the traditional phone companies will charge up to and above $5/month per feature. When shopping for a
VoIP
provider, be sure to compare VoIP providers by features as well as by monthly price.
Keeping Your Number: Some providers allow you to
transfer (port)
your current phone number to the VoIP service and some providers do not. It is not recommended to switch your home number to the VoIP service
immediately. It
is recommended that you try out the service and see if you are satisfied before you request that your current number be switched. Keep in mind
that if you
have DSL service, you must retain a phone number with the service provider of the DSL because the DSL service is provided over that telephone
line. If you
want to get rid of your current phone company all together, then we suggest you use a Cable Internet Service Provider.
911 Service: Most
of the VoIP
carriers offer E911 service, but not all. Be sure to check if the VoIP provider offers E911 because it is not a given. If the VoIP provider does not offer
E911, then we suggest that you either have a cell phone or traditional landline to use in case of an emergency. (Note: It is also important to point
out that
if you take your VoIP phone when traveling, E911 has no way of knowing where you are when you call 911 if you are away from the registered
address.)
International Calling: If you make a lot of international calls, you will want to do a lot of research on International Rates as they vary by
provider. There are a few carriers that offer unlimited calling to certain countries.
Money Back Guarantee: Since VoIP is a relatively new
product;
most all VoIP providers will offer a free money back guarantee. Be sure to check with each provider as we have seen the money back guarantees
range from a
14-day to a 30-day money back guarantee. (Note: Be sure to keep the original packaging that your equipment came in just in case you need to
send it back)
This is only a short list. In fact, there are many things to consider when choosing a VoIP provider. An educated consumer generally results
in a
satisfied consumer. Hopefully, the above list is somewhat helpful......and at least gives you a foundation to start your search from.
About
the Author
Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications http://ld.net/mscprez and http://DS3-Bandwidth.com .......delivering choices
to both residential and
business consumers for voice and data broadband services. Michael also authors BroadBand Nation http://BroadBand-Nation.blogspot.com where
you're always
welcome to to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, and ramblings for the masses.
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