IP-Enabled Services

Internet Voice, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line. VoIP allows you to call anyone who has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile, and international numbers. Also, VoIP services allow you to use a traditional phone through an adaptor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is VoIP/Internet Voice?
VoIP allows you to make telephone calls using a computer network, over a data network like the Internet. VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the internet then converts it back at the other end so you can speak to anyone with a regular phone number. When placing a VoIP call using a phone with an adapter, you'll hear a dial tone and dial just as you always have. The practical upshot of this is that by using VoIP services to make Internet phone calls, you are bypassing the phone company (and its charges) entirely.

How Can I Place a VoIP Call?
The simplest and most common way is through the use of a device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor). The ATA allows you to connect a standard phone to your computer and your Internet connection for use with VoIP. The ATA is an analog-to-digital converter. It takes the analog signal from your traditional phone and converts it into digital data for transmission over the Internet.

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 device called an ATA (analog telephone adaptor).

Is there a difference between making a Local Call and a Long Distance Call?
F2 VoIP services charge a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes for long distance calls to a number outside your calling area.

If I have VoIP service, who can I call?
Calls can be made to a local number, a mobile phone, or to North American long distance number. You may even utilize the service to speak with more than one person at a time. The person you are calling does not need any special equipment, just a phone.

What Are Some Advantages of Internet Voice?
Most VoIP plans provide the features that normal phone companies charge extra for when they are added to your service plan. VoIP includes:

Caller ID
Call waiting
Call transfer
Repeat dial
Return call
Three-way calling

There are also advanced call-filtering options available. These features use caller ID information to allow you make a choice about how calls from a particular number are handled. You can:

Forward the call to a particular number
Send the call directly to voicemail
Give the caller a busy signal
Play a "not-in-service" message
Send the caller to a funny rejection hotline

With many VoIP services, you can also check voicemail via the Web or attach messages to an e-mail that is sent to your computer or handheld. Not all VoIP services offer all of the features above.

What Are Some disadvantages of Internet Voice?
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.
VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings.

Can I use my Computer While I talk on the Phone?
Yes

Can I Take My Phone Adapter with me When I Travel?
You may be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a high speed Internet connection available. In that case it would work the same as from your home or business.

Does my Computer Have to be Turned on?
Not if you are making calls with a phone and adaptor or special VoIP phone, but your broadband Internet connection needs to be active. You can also use your computer while talking on the phone.

How Do I Know If I have a VoIP phone Call?
It will ring like any other call.

Does the FCC Regulate VoIP?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation to benefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004, the FCC found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding to examine what its' role should be in this new environment of increased consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding the public interest.

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.