VOIP Frequently Asked
Questions
How VoIP / Internet
Voice Works
VoIP services convert your voice into a digital signal that
travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone
number, the signal is converted to a regular telephone signal
before it reaches the destination. VoIP can allow you to make a
call directly from a computer, a special VoIP phone, or a
traditional phone connected to a special adapter. In addition,
wireless "hot spots" in locations such as airports,
parks, and cafes allow you to connect to the Internet and may
enable you to use VoIP service wirelessly.
What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?
A broadband (high speed Internet) connection is required.
This can be through a cable modem, or high speed services such as
DSL or a local area network. A computer, adaptor, or
specialized phone is required. Some VoIP services only work
over your computer or a special VoIP phone, while other services
allow you to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP adapter.
If you use your computer, you will need some software and an
inexpensive microphone. Special VoIP phones plug directly into
your broadband connection and operate largely like a traditional
telephone. If you use a telephone with a VoIP adapter, you'll be
able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may
also provide a dial tone.
Is there a difference between making a
Local Call and a Long Distance Call?
Some VoIP providers offer their services for
free, normally only for calls to other subscribers to the service.
Your VoIP provider may permit you to select an area code different
from the area in which you live. It also means that people who
call you may incur long distance charges depending on their area
code and service.
Some VoIP providers charge for a long distance
call to a number outside your calling area, similar to existing,
traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers
permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of
minutes.
If I have VoIP
service, who can I call?
Depending upon your service, you might be limited only to other
subscribers to the service, or you may be able to call anyone who
has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile,
and international numbers. If you are calling someone who has a
regular analog phone, that person does not need any special
equipment to talk to you. Some VoIP services may allow you to
speak with more than one person at a time.
What Are Some
Advantages of VoIP?
Some VoIP services offer features and services that are not
available with a traditional phone, or are available but only for
an additional fee. You may also be able to avoid paying for both a
broadband connection and a traditional telephone line.
What Are Some
disadvantages of VoIP?
If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service
with VoIP, there are some possible differences:
-
Some VoIP services don't work during power
outages and the service provider may not offer backup power.
-
Not all VoIP services connect directly to
emergency services through 9-1-1. For additional information,
see www.voip911.gov.
-
VoIP providers may or may not offer
directory assistance/white page listings.
Can I use my Computer
While I talk on the Phone?
In most cases, yes.
Can I Take My Phone Adapter with me When I
Travel?
Some VoIP service providers offer services that can be used
wherever a high speed Internet connection available. Using a VoIP
service from a new location may impact your ability to connect
directly to emergency services through 9-1-1. For additional
information, see www.voip911.gov.
Does my Computer Have to be Turned on?
Only if your service requires you to make calls using your
computer. All VoIP services require your broadband Internet
connection to be active.
How Do I Know If I
have a VoIP phone Call?
If you have a special VoIP phone or a regular telephone connected
to a VoIP adapter, the phone will ring like a traditional
telephone. If your VoIP service requires you to make calls using
your computer, the software supplied by your service provider will
alert you when you have an incoming call.
Does the FCC Regulate VoIP?
In June 2005 the FCC imposed 911 obligations on providers of
“interconnected” VoIP services – VoIP services that allow
users generally to make calls to and receive calls from the
regular telephone network. You should know, however, that 911
calls using VoIP are handled differently than 911 calls using your
regular telephone service. Please see our consumer fact sheet on
VoIP and 911 services at www.voip911.gov
for complete information on these differences.
In addition, the FCC requires interconnected
VoIP providers to comply with the Communications Assistance for
Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (CALEA) and to contribute to the
Universal Service Fund, which supports communications services in
high-cost areas and for income-eligible telephone subscribers.
Aspects of these considerations may change
with new developments in internet technology. You should always
check with the VoIP service provider you choose to confirm any
advantages and limitations to their service.
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