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Buying Guide: Getting Connected
The Techie Way
If you want to use VoIP via your home's existing phone wires, jacks, and phones—as Ben did—you must first determine whether you need to replace your analog line, add VoIP as a second line, or just start fresh. Obstacles abound, but if executed properly, the process can be rewarding. Ben's experience was a worst-case scenario.
The Easy Way
Moving to VoIP doesn't have to be painful. If you live in an apartment, the fastest way to go VoIP is to connect a cordless phone directly to your VoIP ATA device. The upside is that you avoid wiring hassles and minimize line noise. The downside is the cost of new cordless phones and the inability to connect alarm systems to your VoIP line.
If you want to use VoIP via your home's existing phone wires, jacks, and phones—as Ben did—you must first determine whether you need to replace your analog line, add VoIP as a second line, or just start fresh. Obstacles abound, but if executed properly, the process can be rewarding. Ben's experience was a worst-case scenario.
The Easy Way
Moving to VoIP doesn't have to be painful. If you live in an apartment, the fastest way to go VoIP is to connect a cordless phone directly to your VoIP ATA device. The upside is that you avoid wiring hassles and minimize line noise. The downside is the cost of new cordless phones and the inability to connect alarm systems to your VoIP line.