Broadband Phone Service - Understanding the Basics

Most likely, you have seen the TV commercials from Vonage that show people doing the dumbest of things, but then go on to say your phone service should not be one of them. The ad tells you to get the latest in technology, broadband phone service. It seems that broadband phone service is all the rage now, but do you fully understand just what it is? Most people don't, so let's take a look at the basics that will give you a better understanding.

Unlike traditional phones that utilize phone lines, broadband phones use the power of the Internet to provide phone service. Known as VOIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, this newest technology converts and transmits the standard analog signal into a digital signal. At the other end, the digital signal is converted back over to an analog signal so the party you are calling is able to hear your voice.

The setup for broadband phone service is quite simple. It really is not much different than the system you now have. You use all of your same telephones in your home and the same phone jacks as well. When you need to call someone you simply pick up the phone and dial the number. There is no special signal or codes to enter. The only requirement is that you have Internet service in your home.

The optional services for broadband phones are just like the ones available for traditional phone service. These include:

-Caller ID

-Call Waiting

-Call Forwarding

-Voicemail

-Call Return

-And many others as well

One of the main advantages of broadband phones is the cost savings. For a flat fee you can call anywhere in the U.S. for free. Many plans also include worldwide phone service.

Finding a provider for broadband service is not difficult. Your local cable TV company probably offers the service already. This should be the first place to check out as you will most likely get a big discount for having your phone and cable service with one provider.

While having broadband phone service can save you money, there are drawbacks to using such a service. In severe weather your cable may go out, leaving you without a phone. In fact, any type of outage will cause you to lose phone service. Also, 911 access is unavailable in most cases. This has been a major source of debate, and 911 service is being developed by phone providers that should be available in the near future. You should definitely ask your provider if and when this important feature will be available if it is not already.

There is no denying that broadband phone service is here to stay. With the ever changing pace of technology that exists today, you can bet that this type of service will only improve and provide even more functions in the future.