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VoIP stands out because of its convenience, quality, but also because of its low cost. Not only is the monthly fee lower than PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) but VoIP also offers features without charging for them.

Despite the fact that VoIP is a great service, there are still a few loose bolts. When switching to VoIP from a traditional phone service it may not be possible t o keep your old phone number. The service offers local phone numbers in some areas. Check with VoIP and your current phone company if this service is available in your area.

Certain VoIP services will redirect your 911 calls to emergency call centers close by, if you have registered your address with them in case you need 911. But, once connected to the emergency center the operator will not be able to determine your location if you can’t speak. Especially for elderly people it is advised to either stick to the traditional phone line or to always have a cell phone nearby.

In case of a blackout VoIP comes with a battery backup. Only during long blackouts the batteries will go empty. For these types of situations it is also advised to keep a traditional line or a cell phone.

If you consider these to be minor flaws and you wish to switch over to VoIP, the first thing you need to do is choose a VoIP service provider.

The difference between the many providers out there is their rate for long-distance and overseas calls. So pick a provider that suits your type of calling most. You can also choose to have multiple phone numbers. If you were to have local numbers in different cities, people who call you in those cities will only pay the local tariff. Pick a VoIP service that will keep your costs at a minimum, and ask for a local number.

To use VoIP you need a broadband cable or DSL modem, a router and perhaps an IP phone. You can also get a modem and router in one. To set VoIP up you need to follow two easy steps: Plug the router into the modem and the IP phone into the router. No fuss, no muss.