How to Make the Switch to VoIP - Broadband Phone Service

Using internet phone service is just like making a "regular" telephone call. The only difference is that with VoIP service, calls are routed over the internet instead of telephone lines.

A small device known as a VoIP adapter is used to connect your existing telephone to your broadband internet router. This VoIP adapter routes your outgoing calls over your internet connection, and passes incoming calls through to your telephone. With broadband phone service, you use regular telephones and hear a dialtone just like with traditional "land line" phone service. Incoming calls "ring" your phone just like with regular telephone service too.

Broadband Internet Required for VoIP

Before ordering internet phone service, you need to make sure you have a broadband (high speed) internet connection. Although VoIP will work with both DSL and Cable internet, if you want to save the most money - get cable internet (Roadrunner, etc...). The reason for this is that most DSL internet service is provided by the telephone company. Most phone companies require you to have their phone service (which runs between $25-$40 a month) in order to use their DSL internet. Since VoIP will be replacing your existing "land line" phone service, it makes the best financial sense to disconnect your phone line (save that money!).

Preparing for Internet Phone Service

Once you've got your cable internet service up and running, have the cable company take care of any bandwidth or service issues before you order your internet phone service. VoIP will rely on the cable internet connection, so you want to make sure you don't have any "bugs" with it. Most quality issues associated with broadband phone service are actually due to a problem with the broadband internet connection, not the VoIP service. So make sure your high speed internet service is functioning perfectly!
If you don't already have one, purchase a new expandable cordless phone system. This will enable you to use your internet phone service on all your telephones, not just the one attached to the VoIP adapter. Buy the base unit and as many expandable handsets as you need. You'll be able to use the handsets anywhere there is a power outlet nearby. VoIP won't rely on your internal telephone wiring, so you won't be plugging in any telephone cables! A good place to buy a cheap phone system is Overstock.com.
Choose the best VoIP provider for your own particular needs and wants. Compare VoIP plan prices and international calling rates for the countries you call often. Select a VoIP company that meets your needs and has the cheapest international long distance rates (if you will be making overseas calls). All of the VoIP companies mentioned on this website have a great reputation for service and value, and all are financially sound. This is a good place to start your search.

Ordering and Installing Broadband Phone Service

Once you've got a great cable internet connection and have purchased an expandable cordless phone system (if you need one), you are ready to order your VoIP service.

After you've decided on an internet phone service provider, try to find a promo code before ordering. This will usually get you a better deal. With a promo code, you may get free shipping, free activation, a free phone, a free month of service, etc... The promo code will ensure that you get whatever "special" the VoIP provider is offering at the time. Here are a couple of promo codes to get you started:

Voip.com promo code = LUCKY
Packet8 promo code = bpublic-govoip

Order your digital phone service directly from the VoIP provider's website. Or if you like, call them directly to order. You can usually keep your existing phone number (may take a few weeks for the transfer to take place), or you can get a new number.

In about a week, you will receive your VoIP adapter with instructions on installing it. This is really easy to do, and is really just a matter of connecting cables as instructed. When everything is connected as per the instructions, dial the phone number and access code you were given (usually emailed to you) and your internet phone service will be "activated". You can start making and receiving calls as soon as you activate your VoIP. If you are transferring your existing phone number to VoIP, you will need to wait until your number has been ported before you can install your VoIP adapter and activate service. You will receive an email from the VoIP company as soon as your number has been transferred.

Before Disconnecting Your Land Line

After you have activated your new VoIP service, use it a lot for a week or so to make sure you have no issues with it before disconnecting your land line. There are usually very few problems associated with new VoIP service, but just in case - use it for a short while to make sure all is ok.