5 Steps to VoIP

So you’re ready to enjoy unlimited long distance calling and
lower monthly phone bills. Well, before you make the switch,
here are five steps that will help you get the VoIP plan that is
best for you.



1. Make the Decision



Yes, it is new technology, and sometimes we are scared of the
unknown. VoIP technology is on the rise and many high profile
computer companies are already switching to VoIP and in return
are becoming service providers. AOL, Sprint, and Verizon are
offering VoIP as well as Internet Messaging services such as
Yahoo, MSN, and AOL IM. First you must come to the decision that
VoIP is best for you, your family, or your business needs.
Research VoIP on the web and its providers. Talk to people that
you know have already made the switch. Once you have made your
decision to switch to VoIP, you are ready for the next step.



2. Choose the Plan that is Right for You



A good idea is to make a written list of your needs, wants, and
features in a phone. This will help you compare different plans
and choose the service provider that will best fit your needs.
If you are looking for residential or business service, make
sure that you note that in your list. Residential plans usually
come in two forms- basic (which is a certain amount of minutes)
and unlimited (which will give you unlimited local and long
distance talk time). Business plans can include amenities such
as multiple phones, greater minute talk time, greater unlimited
calling plans, business features bundled with your plan, faxing
and voicemail to your computer capabilities, and extras such as
yellow page listings. Check with the company to find the plan
that meets your requirements.



3. Setting up the System



Some service providers will send you the equipment that you need
to begin using VoIP. You will first need to make sure that your
computer system is compatible with the VoIP service. You will
also need to have high speed Internet already installed with
your computer. If you are using VoIP for a business or for a
call center, it is best to leave the installation to a
professional. Installing VoIP for a residence or home office is
typically simple enough for most residents to do themselves.



4. Choosing your Phone Number



One of the best features that VoIP has to offer is the freedom
to select your own telephone number. If you just want to
transfer your old number to your new VoIP system, check with
your service provider before making your final decision. Many
VoIP providers will allow you to transfer your phone number.



If you want to select a different area code, this option has
many advantages. First, for friends and family members who don’t
have unlimited long distance calling, selecting the same area
code as them can save them money. They will appreciate being
able to call you as if it were a local call.



This strategy is also very beneficial for those whose businesses
are targeting specific areas. Say there is a California company,
yet they want to increase business in Tampa, Florida. By
selecting the Tampa, Florida area code, they can increase sales
and productivity by having a local number for customers to call.
This also reduces the need for a toll free number.



5. Install your Features and Accessories



VoIP comes with many features included in your service plan. For
residential customers these include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call
Forwarding, Call Block, and Do Not Disturb. Always check with
your service provider for a detailed listing of the features
included with your plan. For Small businesses, amenities such as
multi phone users, free fax lines, and integrating your VoIP and
web features are all available. VoIP also contains many of the
same features bundled with basic plans as well. When you are
choosing a provider, compare their business plans and select the
one that best fits your business needs.



As VoIP technology continues to advance, a new array of
accessories appears on the market. Today you can choose from
VoIP phones, headsets, and even VoIP videophones that work as a
web camera incorporating video with your audio.