Did you know that internet phone service is so easy to install, that literally “anyone” can do it? Many people shy away from getting VoIP service because they think they are not “technical” enough to install it themselves. Nothing could be further from the truth! If you can look at pictures and follow a few simple instructions, you can install VoIP internet phone service and take advantage of the tremendous cost savings associated with this great technology!

VoIP phone service looks and feels just like traditional “land line” phone service. The difference is that instead of using the telephone company’s wires, your calls are routed over the internet. If you have broadband (high speed) internet service, you can use internet phone service.

Internet phone service costs only a fraction of what regular phone service costs, which is why millions of people have already made the switch. Most VoIP plans provide you with unlimited local and long distance calling within the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico for less than $25 a month. Some VoIP providers offer an annual “prepaid” plan that costs around $199 a year – this is the best value for the money. Most VoIP providers give you tons of free calling features like call waiting, call forwarding, caller ID, voicemail and more. Most people who switch to VoIP save an average of $500 a year on their phone bill.

How to Install VoIP Internet Phone Service

Once you have decided on a VoIP service provider (there are many to choose from), sign up for service on their website. In a week or so, you will receive a VoIP adapter (also known as an ATA) in the mail. This is the device that serves as the “brains” of your internet phone system.

When your VoIP adapter arrives, follow the easy instructions to attach it to your broadband modem/router as well as to your telephone and computer. There are no tools required, and there is no software to install. You may need a flashlight to see all the connection ports, especially if your computer and modem are located underneath a desk (as mine is).

After the cable connections are made, dial the special “activation” phone number that came with your VoIP adapter. You will need to enter an activation code, which was probably sent to you via email when you signed up for the service. Once this process is complete, you are ready to start using your VoIP phone!

How to Use Multiple Phones with Your VoIP Service

Since your VoIP adapter is designed to connect to one telephone only, an easy way to use internet phone service on all the phones in your house is to use a cordless expandable phone system. Buy a system that includes the total number of phones you want, and attach the base phone to your VoIP adapter. Then place the cordless handsets anywhere in the house you want. Since internet phone service does not rely on telephone wires, you don’t need to plug the phones into wall phone jacks. All that is required is an electrical outlet to supply power to the cordless expansion phones!

How to Set Up Features on your Internet Phone Service

VoIP typically comes with a ton of free features that you can turn on or off as you wish. The easiest way to manage the way your phone works is to go to your VoIP provider’s website and logon to your account. You will then have access to every feature available with your service. You can turn on caller ID, activate voicemail to email functionality, block international calling, etc… You can manage every aspect of your phone service from the web when you have VoIP service. You can also manage features from your VoIP phone by following the instructions that came with your VoIP adapter.

Keeping Your E911 Address Updated

A really important thing to remember is that VoIP uses a system called E911 for emergency calls. E911 lets emergency operators know your physical location. This information is obtained from the address you have on record at your VoIP provider. In order for E911 to accurately reflect your address, you need to be sure to update it using online account management if you move.

VoIP phone service is quick and easy to install, and the features are easily managed using the online account management access tools. Once you have your VoIP service up and running, wait a week or so before disconnecting your land line phone service. You want to make sure you are comfortable with the VoIP service and that the call quality is acceptable. If you have a problem with voice quality, ask your internet service provider to check your broadband connection. Most VoIP quality issues are related to the internet connection.

By: Debbie Jacobsen