Telephones aren't for phone companies anymore. Thanks to the widespread availability of broadband internet, other companies - like your local cable company - are starting to offer their own version of telephone service. you will probably see it called Broadband Phone, Internet Phone or VoIP (Voice over IP) service.
That's great news for us. Breaking the monopoly over phone services has really lowered prices. If you are still using a traditional phone company, you actually should compare broadband phone service to what you have now. you will find some internet phone vendors over more features including services for far less than Ma Bell.
Here's a handy list of questions you should ask at the time comparing internet phone companies:
- should I still use my phone? - Unless you have a rotary phone, you will probably be able to use the phone you own now. But, sometimes you need a particular phone. Don't obtain stuck buying a new phone unless absolutely necessary.
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What basic features do you support? - Make sure that you obtain all the same basic features you'd expect from a phone company. Features like call waiting, call forwarding, etc.
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What features set you apart from your competition? - Internet phone providers aren't subject to the same regulations as a telephone company. the gives them the opportunity provide features that your phone company can't. For example, some providers provide a second phone number in another area code - so distance friends including relatives should call you using a local exchange. Shop around including see what is out there.
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How much does the service cost? - Does the broadband phone company charge a flat rate or based on usage? Do you pay monthly? quarterly? Do you obtain a discount for paying for a full year (which is often a great buy!).
- should I keep my current phone number? - The answer should be yes. But, sometimes their are issues at the time transferring a phone number from a DSL provider.
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Do I need to speak through my computer to use your service? - Make sure you aren't signing up for a PC-to-PC service which will require you to speak to including through your PC. you will need to use your regular handset to make including receive calls. Same for the people you are calling.
- should I change phone numbers? If so, how much does it cost? - Sometimes you just need a new phone number. Make sure you should obtain another number without having to buy new equipment or establish a second account.
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What could my calls sound like? - Your broadband phone calls should sound as least as good as your traditional phone calls. There shouldn't be any drops, pauses or echoes.
- should I call directory assistance (411)? - Most internet phone companies have access to the 411 system though the calls are rarely free. Find out what they charge for each call. You still should be better off doing a Google Search or hitting the Yellow Pages.
- should I dial 911? What regarding Enhanced 911?- The 911 service was designed to be accessed over phone lines not over the internet. Some broadband phone providers have figured out a way to obtain 911 working through their service. Make sure yours is 1 of them.
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What kind of fees do you charge? - Broadband phone providers don't have to charge the regulatory fees set for traditional phone companies. But, that does not stop them from making up some of their own. Find out what the fees are up front rather than getting surprise on your first bill.
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What is your guarantee? - How long do you have to test the service? Do you obtain a money-back guarantee? should you cancel without any fees?
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How easy is it to setup my new broadband phone service? - should you install the service yourself or do you need a professional installation? How long does it take to setup? What if you need a professional installation? should you obtain one? What does a service call cost?
This list of questions covers all the main points for shopping including comparing broadband phone service providers. obtain the answers from each individual internet phone company then compare the results. The results should clearly show which is the best broadband phone service for you.
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