VoIP is a relatively new phone service to many consumers. Some of you may have hesitations when transferring your phone service from landline to VoIP or installing VoIP as a second phone line, here are some commonly asked questions on VoIP service.

What is VoIP?
Do I need broadband / high speed internet access to use VoIP?
Can I use VoIP with dialup internet connection?
What do I need to use VoIP service?
What is a phone adaptor?
Can I use the phone adaptor in other places?
Can I make phone calls if my internet service is down?
Can I receive phone calls if my internet service is down?
Can I keep my existing number?
Do I need to cancel my VoIP phone service when I move?
How do I install VoIP phone?
Can I dial 911 when using VoIP phone?
What is Basic 911?
What is Enhanced 911?

1. What is VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, a technology to transmit voice signal over the internet.

2. Do I need broadband / high speed internet access to use VoIP?

Yes. The quality of VoIP service depends on the quality of high speed internet access too.

3. Can I use VoIP with dialup internet connection?

No. You will need high speed internet access to use VoIP service.

4. What do I need to use VoIP service?

You need high speed internet access, a phone adaptor and a touchtone phone.

5. What is a phone adaptor?

A phone adaptor is a device that connects you to the network of VoIP provider via high speed internet connection.

6. Can I use the phone adaptor in other places?

Yes. You can use the phone adaptor to turn all broadband internet connection into your VoIP phone line anywhere in the world.

7. Can I make phone calls if my internet service is down?

No, you cannot make phone calls when the power or internet connection goes out. It is better to have a backup power supply or a cell phone for emergency use.

8. Can I receive phone calls if my internet service is down?

Depending on individual VoIP providers, some allow you to set up a network availability number and all calls will be transferred to the landline or cell phone number during outage.

9. Can I keep my existing number?

It depends. Some numbers are transferable. Visit the VoIP provider’s site to find out if yours is transferable.

10. Do I need to cancel my VoIP phone service when I move?

No. You can use your existing VoIP service in any location with high speed internet access using the phone adaptor. There is no need to cancel and pay for any moving cost.

11. How do I install VoIP phone?

Just connect the phone adaptor to your internet connection and the touchtone phone.

12. Can I dial 911 when using VoIP phone?

Yes. VoIP providers offer 911 Dialing Service too, either as Basic 911 or Enhanced 911.

13. What is Basic 911?

With Basic 911 service, the emergency center would answer your call but they would not have information about your call back number or your street address, you should provide this information yourself.

14. What is Enhanced 911?

With Enhanced 911, your telephone number and registered address are simultaneously sent to the local emergency center. To benefit from Enhanced 911 service, you should update the VoIP provider with your current call back number and street address whenever you change this information.