There's no question about it - VoIP is quickly becoming the telecommunications method of choice for residential phone service. For most people, it's no longer a matter of "IF" you will switch to VoIP internet phone service, but when. The number of VoIP subscribers in the US increased over 150% between 2005 and 2006, and currently about 10 million households use internet phone service. According to Voip.com, over 44 million Americans will be using VoIP by 2010.
The only requirement for residential VoIP service is a broadband (high-speed) internet connection. Since most people in the US now use broadband, it's a natural "next step" to use internet phone service. VoIP is so incredibly cheap that it just doesn't make sense to continue using pricey land line service anymore. Most VoIP subscribers (over 60%) get their internet phone service through local cable television companies, because they don't realize there are other options. Although cable company VoIP is easy and convenient, prices are nearly as high as traditional phone service.
If you really want to take advantage of the incredible money saving benefits of internet phone service, you should choose an independent VoIP provider. There are many excellent internet phone service providers to choose from, and deciding on the VoIP company to go with can be a daunting task. Just as in any industry, all providers are not created equal. Each VoIP provider has different plans, prices and options to choose from, and international long distance rates can vary. Quality of service can vary among internet phone service providers too. Before you begin your search for a residential VoIP service provider, here are some things to think about:
True VoIP providers vs. the Cable Company
Cable TV companies offer unlimited local and long distance calling for a reasonable fee. The monthly charge ranges between $29 - $40 a month for the first year, and then it increases. Cable companies call their phone service "digital" phone service. This is just a marketing term for VoIP - internet phone service. Cable companies actually buy VoIP from a VoIP provider, then resell it to you at a much higher rate. You can get the same internet phone service for about half the price if you buy it directly from a VoIP provider.
Consider the Reputation of the VoIP Company
Since VoIP will likely replace your land line phone service and become your only residential phone service, you want to make sure the internet phone service provider you choose has a reputation for quality service. Telephone service is too important to risk having problems with voice quality, billing, or other issues. You can easily find information and user reviews on VoIP providers on the internet. You should read as much as possible about every provider you are considering before you choose one. If you cannot find any information on the VoIP company you are considering, don't subscribe. Just as in any other industry, there are some resellers and "fly by night" operators out there that provide substandard service.
Ask for Recommendations
With so many people using internet phone service these days, chances are you know people who are using VoIP. Ask around at work, church and school. Find out which VoIP providers people are using, and ask how they like the service. Another good place to find recommendations and information is on internet forums. Most people who participate in forums are happy to offer advice and recommendations.
Know What Type of VoIP Service Plan You Want
All the best internet phone service providers offer several different types of service plans, so you really need to decide what you want before you start comparing providers. Do you want unlimited local and long distance calling, or do you only want 200-400 minutes a month? Do you need a plan that includes unlimited international calling? Do you want a VoIP plan that allows you to use a softphone as well? If you have an idea of what you want out of your internet phone service plan ahead of time, you'll find it easier to select a VoIP provider.
You'll save a ton of money by switching to internet phone service, and you'll be 100% happy with your decision to switch to VoIP as long as you've chosen a reliable provider that offers a plan (and price) that meets your needs.
For more information on the best VoIP providers and the technology of internet phone service, visit Long Distance Savings [http://www.long-distance-savings.com]. For the latest information on VoIP providers and current money-saving offers, visit Internet Phone Service - The Future is Here!
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