Why Select VoIP?
Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology is expanding exponentially, as are VoIP providers and the services and plans they offer. More and more consumers are opting to choose VoIP over traditional land line phone service. The expanding technical base and increasing software for VoIP makes it more and more cost-effective and marketable to the average consumer. These are just some of the reasons that people world-wide are selecting VoIP.
Save Money:
VoIP is free for computer to computer calls using a soft phone. Unless you specifically select a paid provider for your softphone, converting your voice to a digital signal and sending it via the internet instead of via phone lines is free. If you already have a computer and an internet connection in your home, using VoIP eliminates costs for long-distance phone calls by using what you already have. Some of VoIP’s greatest savings come when you use VoIP to make long-distance phone calls. Although you need a paid provider for this service, it can save you a bundle, particularly on international calls. Why pay extra for a phone line when you can utilize the internet connection you are already paying for?
Convenience:
VoIP hardware and software is tailored to utilize the same analog phones that customers are already using. The interface devices required (ATAs) are either issued by the VoIP provider the customer selects, or easily attainable at a local electronics store. They require virtually no set up beyond plugging them in, and are easy to troubleshoot. Consumers who wish to upgrade to IP Phones and more advanced VoIP devices can do so without re-working their entire system. In addition, VoIP can be run from anywhere they have both the ATA device and a phone line. If you have a provider, VoIP does not even require a PC, which makes it ideal for customers who are not computer savvy but wish to tap into the savings VoIP makes possible.
Options:
There are no hidden costs in a VoIP bill, and your local telephone company cannot form a monopoly on price raises. There are no surprises when you get your bill from a VoIP provider. In addition, there are a myriad of different options for a VoIP providers. You can select a VoIP plan that is specifically tailored for your individual needs, and not be required to pay for perks and services that you do not need. In addition, if at any time you are dissatisfied with your VoIP provider, you can simply switch services. You are not tied into the local phone company’s price variations or customer service. VoIP providers have a vested interest in making sure you are happy because you can simply utilize another provider at any given time. And VoIP providers are much simpler to find than alternate phone companies, particularly in rural areas.
Features:
VoIP also provides a myriad of features that are not available by a local telephone company, or available only for substantial increase in service fees. (see VoIP features) With the expansion of technology, the ‘way it’s always been done’ is becoming obsolete. The bottom line is that the internet can be used to accomplish a greater multitude of services at a higher level of sophistication than can be accomplished using traditional phone lines. Specialized call blocking and screening, call forwarding plans, conference calling and virtual telephone numbers are examples of some of the features available only from VoIP providers.
Termination and Relocation:
The average American will move multiple times in their adult life. Traditional phone companies have steep termination fees and laborious connection/disconnection processes. With VoIP, however, relocation does not affect the continued phone service of its users. They don’t have to call a phone company to set up and activate a line in their home, and they don’t have to switch mid-stream. They just have to plug their ATA device into their new outlet. There are no new activation fees, and will still be no termination fees when they leave.