VoIP Q and A
Q: What is this Voice over IP?
A: VoIP (usually pronounced "VOYP") stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. It allows you to make telephone calls using a computer network, over the Internet's data lines. Also sometimes called "Internet telephony" or "Internet voice."
Q: How does VoIP work?
A: VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet, then converts it back at the other end, so you can speak to anyone with a regular phone number. When placing a VoIP call using a phone with an adapter, you'll hear a dial tone and make the call just as you always have.
Q: What do I need to use VoIP?
A: VoIP requires a broadband (high-speed) Internet connection using a cable modem, digital subscriber line (DSL) or a local area network. You can hook up an inexpensive microphone to your computer and send your voice through a cable modem, connect a phone directly to a telephone adapter or use a special VoIP phone. You'll also need to sign up with a service such as Skype or Vonage to route your calls.
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Q: Why would I consider using VoIP?
A: Cost is the primary reason. Services such as Skype allow members to call one another for free. Often you can get a flat-rate VoIP service that includes unlimited local and long-distance calls in the United States or Canada for $20 to $30 per month. VoIP calling plans also often include digital calling features such as Caller ID and voice mail that can be automatically routed as sound files to e-mail.
Q: What are some of the disadvantages of VoIP?
A: Audio quality may be worse than on land-line phones, though calls can be clearer; Internet connections are more prone to outages than phone networks are, and they're vulnerable to power outages; not all VoIP services connect directly to 911 emergency phone services; and some services don't support certain analog calling functions such as fax machines or home-alarm systems.
Q: Can I keep my current land-line phone number?
A: That depends on the VoIP provider, but most major providers say they offer such "number portability" in most areas. You also can get a "virtual" phone number with an area code outside your home area.
911 service is big hang-up
●The issue of 911 emergency service may be the biggest challenge facing VoIP providers.
The Federal Communications Commission has decided not to tightly regulate VoIP, but it has mandated that VoIP services provide 911 capability.
In fact, effective Monday, VoIP providers no longer will be allowed to market their services in places where they can't assure 911 will work, though they may keep serving existing subscribers.
The FCC's ruling has forced Verizon to stop offering its VoiceWing VoIP service with Arizona phone numbers until it finds a solution, Verizon spokeswoman Sharon Beadle said.
However, in a quirk of VoIP technology, Beadle said the company can offer Arizona residents numbers with area codes from places where they can provide 911 service, such as New York state.
The 911 mandate does not apply to Skype because it is not considered a replacement for land-line phone service, company spokesman Rick Loughery said.