So you’re ready to enjoy unlimited long distance calling and lower
monthly phone bills. Well, before you make the switch, here are five
steps that will help you get the VoIP plan that is best for you.
1. Make the Decision
Yes, it is new technology, and sometimes we are scared of the unknown.
VoIP technology is on the rise and many high profile computer companies
are already switching to VoIP and in return are becoming service
providers. AOL, Sprint, and Verizon are offering VoIP as well as
Internet Messaging services such as Yahoo, MSN, and AOL IM. First you
must come to the decision that VoIP is best for you, your family, or
your business needs. Research VoIP on the web and its providers. Talk
to people that you know have already made the switch. Once you have
made your decision to switch to VoIP, you are ready for the next step.
2. Choose the Plan that is Right for You
A good idea is to make a written list of your needs, wants, and
features in a phone. This will help you compare different plans and
choose the service provider that will best fit your needs. If you are
looking for residential or business service, make sure that you note
that in your list. Residential plans usually come in two forms- basic
(which is a certain amount of minutes) and unlimited (which will give
you unlimited local and long distance talk time). Business plans can
include amenities such as multiple phones, greater minute talk time,
greater unlimited calling plans, business features bundled with your
plan, faxing and voicemail to your computer capabilities, and extras
such as yellow page listings. Check with the company to find the plan
that meets your requirements.
3. Setting up the System
Some service providers will send you the equipment that you need to
begin using VoIP. You will first need to make sure that your computer
system is compatible with the VoIP service. You will also need to have
high speed Internet already installed with your computer. If you are
using VoIP for a business or for a call center, it is best to leave the
installation to a professional. Installing VoIP for a residence or home
office is typically simple enough for most residents to do themselves.
4. Choosing your Phone Number
One of the best features that VoIP has to offer is the freedom to
select your own telephone number. If you just want to transfer your old
number to your new VoIP system, check with your service provider before
making your final decision. Many VoIP providers will allow you to
transfer your phone number.
If you want to select a different area code, this option has many
advantages. First, for friends and family members who don’t have
unlimited long distance calling, selecting the same area code as them
can save them money. They will appreciate being able to call you as if
it were a local call.
This strategy is also very beneficial for those whose businesses are
targeting specific areas. Say there is a California company, yet they
want to increase business in Tampa, Florida. By selecting the Tampa,
Florida area code, they can increase sales and productivity by having a
local number for customers to call. This also reduces the need for a
toll free number.
5. Install your Features and Accessories
VoIP comes with many features included in your service plan. For
residential customers these include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call
Forwarding, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb. Always check with your
service provider for a detailed listing of the features included with
your plan. For Small businesses, amenities such as multi phone users,
free fax lines, and integrating your VoIP and web features are all
available. VoIP also contains many of the same features bundled with
basic plans as well. When you are choosing a provider, compare their
business plans and select the one that best fits your business needs.
As VoIP technology continues to advance, a new array of accessories
appears on the market. Today you can choose from VoIP phones, headsets,
and even VoIP videophones that work as a web camera incorporating video
with your audio.
