DSL Internet

Satellite Internet

Wireless Internet

VoIP Service

Use our guide to locate the best Cable, DSL, Satellite & Wireless Internet access in your area.

Are There Problems With VoIP Service?

The marketing around VoIP services point out that they will save you money on both local and long distance phone calls while at the same time providing you with advanced features which are not available from a standard analog phone line. However, there are still some problems with VoIP service that consumers should be aware of while making the decision to switch from standard phone service to Voice Over IP.

The main problem lies in how they handle 911 emergency calls. When you sign up with a VoIP provider, you typically must provide a valid service address where the VoIP phone will make calls from. Your VoIP provider will then provide you with either basic 911 service or VoIP enchanced 911 service (E911). How E911 service will function varies from provider to provider, so it is important to always read their FAQ's on 911 service prior to choosing them as your VoIP provider. For the most part, E911 will function in the same manner as the 911 service you are used to, but it is best to be aware of your provider's system for handling 911 calls during power outages and over bad Internet connections.

That brings us to the next major problem with VoIP service, which is power outages. If you're power goes out, so does your VoIP phone service (in most cases). It is good policy to always have a battery backup in place for your computer and VoIP phone. You should also check with your VoIP provider to make sure they have a call forwarding service to send calls to your cell phone at times when your power may be out.

Another major issue with VoIP is that the quality of your phone service will now depend upon a second service, which is your broadband Internet connection. The clarity and stability of your VoIP calls will be based upon the reliability and connection of your high speed Internet service provider. Any problems that arise with your ISP or your Internet connections will also probably affect your VoIP calls, as well. So, if you are not currently using a broadband ISP that you are completely happy with in terms of quality service, then you probably shouldn't consider using VoIP through them since the quality of your VoIP connection will only be as good as the quality of your Internet connection.

	Broadband Phone Providers		Questions About Voice Over IP
	NetZero Voice VoIP		What Is Voice Over IP?
	Comcast Digital Phone Service		How Does VoIP Work?
	Time Warner Digital Phone		What Are The Advantages Of VoIP?
	Verizon VoiceWing Service		Are There Problems With VoIP Service?
	AT&T CallVantage VoIP		Can I Use VoIP With Satellite?

To compare different broadband phone services and learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of using VoIP, return to our main section on VoIP Providers.