Before you decide to go wireless or not, there are many points to consider.
You may be asking yourself if wireless is for you.
Well, today, many people are asking themselves the same question.
If you watch the headline news, you are bound to see stories involving mergers, federal regulations, and new tax rules.
This all points to the fact that VoIP has made a definite impression on American citizens and is here to stay.
It may be difficult for some people to remove the telephone cords from their homes; we have depended on them for over 100 years.
But once many people take the time to weigh the pros and the cons, most choose to go wireless.
Here are some reasons, why you should make the switch to wireless.

Wireless networks are fast.
With VoIP, you can create a network that incorporates data, audio, video, and computer web features.
You can easily monitor your network for problems and troubleshooting is much simpler with web based applications rather than hardware applications.
VoIP uses less bandwidth than other applications and this in the long run saves money.
This is of special value to businesses.
Businesses can also provide better customer service with integrated programs.
Not only does this increase productivity, but also it saves time and money in the long run.

Overall, VoIP is much more inexpensive then PSTN.
You simply pay for your Internet service, and then whichever VoIP provider you choose.
For a one time monthly fee, you can have unlimited local and long distance phone calls.
You will need to check with the VoIP service provider that you choose for exact details on their rates.
Sometimes, your VoIP service provider will allow free calls within the world to another computer, yet there may be a fee for calls worldwide to a landline phone.
Always check with your chosen service provider for exact details regarding your chosen plan.
Included in many VoIP service plans are free features.
These features include Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting, Do Not Disturb, and more.
Again, check with your chosen service provider for an overview of all the features bundled with your plan.
The biggest benefit is the unlimited long distance calling.
This has proven to be the number one reason why most businesses are switching to VoIP.
For businesses such as sales or jobs that have mobile employees, these benefits go without saying.
But overall, the average cost of VoIP is considerably less when compared to the cost of PSTN.

With VoIP, you can talk with more than one person without paying extra for services such as three way calling.
With VoIP you can have more than three people on the phone at once.
VoIP is the perfect solution for those who want to explore the features of conference calls.
This is very important for businesses that have employees overseas.
By using the video conferencing features, employers will increase their productivity.

By using VoIP, you can take your VoIP equipment with you whenever you travel.
Your VoIP service provider will send you a converter that will allow you to use your converter with any standard telephone.
The converter comes programmed with your telephone number, allowing you to take your phone and phone number with you worldwide.
All you will need is a high speed Internet connection and you can use your VoIP phone service.
This is of extreme benefit to mobile employees.
No longer are outdated telecommunications systems necessary, or are employees trying to run businesses on prepaid cell phone plans.
By using VoIP, an employee will have access to his/her phone number, wherever they are located.
Whether out of state, in a hotel, or traveling on a business trip, customers will be able to call the same number as well as leave voice mail on the employee's computer.

Many VoIP service providers will give you the option of selecting your own area code number.
This is a tremendous benefit to family and friend members who can call you locally, if you select the same area code number.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.