The major advantage of VoIP broadband phone service is the cost. VoIP broadband phone providers charge you a much lower monthly fee for local, long distance and international calls than traditional phone service.

Some VoIP providers provide free service to subscribers using the same software (e.g. Skype) in their computer. All they need are a computer, a microphone and a speaker.

VoIP broadband phone service also provides features that are usually not available with traditional phone service, such as virtual phone number or free features (such as caller ID with name, call waiting, conference calls, call forwarding) which are charged for additional cost by traditional phone companies.

Even if you already have a regular phone line, VoIP is a good low cost alternative to add an additional phone line with extra features and low long distance and international rates.

Disadvantages of VoIP

Some VoIP services do not work during power outages or when the internet connection is down. It is a good idea to install a backup power supply or have a mobile phone as a backup.

The 9-1-1 service provided by VoIP service is also different from traditional phone line. Traditional phone service generally associates a particular phone number with a fixed address but VoIP services can be used from any internet connection so the location of the caller cannot be determined automatically. Therefore, it is important to provide an accurate address to the VoIP provider and update this information immediately if this information is changed.

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