3. You'll have to fiddle with technology.
Given the fact that the Internet and
computers are involved, VoIP isn't too bad. But it isn't quite as easy
as plugging a wire into the wall.
All of the VoIP companies provide adapters.
These are small electronic boxes, about the size of a paperback book.
You plug your phone into the adapter. The cable from the adapter then
plugs into your modem. That's easy. Unfortunately, that setup means you
can't use your computer when you use the phone. Only one can be plugged
into the modem at a time.
The answer is getting a router, which is a
small computer that connects networks to networks. In your case, your
phone and computer constitute a network. The network you're connecting
to is the Internet.
Your VoIP provider may have routers for
sale. If not, you can get one at an electronics store. You can probably
find one for less than $50.
The phone adapter and computer connect to
the router. So does the modem. The Internet-access stream enters the
system through the modem. It flows to the router, which separates it for
the phone and computer. Even with multiple computers hooked to the
router, there is no discernable slowdown in service.
You'll have to configure the router to work
with the computers, phone adapter and modem. Most people should be able
to do that. If you can't, maybe your VoIP company or Internet service
provider will help.
The VoIP companies are working to tailor
their service to small businesses. Until recently, if you had more than
one phone, all phones rang when a call arrived. Once that call was
answered, the other phones could take more calls. All phones could make
outgoing calls simultaneously.
There was an alternative: Buy a separate
number for each phone. If you did that, you multiplied the line charge
by the number of phones. You often got a break on the cost of the second
and subsequent lines.
Now, extensions are becoming available.
Packet8 has just started offering them. So if you have a dozen phones,
you have one main number and 12 extensions. Extensions are $39 per
month.
4. The world isn't perfect.
And neither is VoIP. But this technology has
come a long way. Like everything else connected to computers, it will
probably get better and cheaper.
VoIP rates make a compelling case for
business. If you belong to a business group, ask around. Maybe someone
else has it and can give you guidance.
If you want to tiptoe in, try
Vonage or
Packet8. Both have money-back guarantees. Be sure you understand the
terms before taking the plunge.
| Kim Komando Kim Komando writes about workplace technology and security issues. She's the host of the nation's largest talk-radio show about computers and the Internet, and writes a syndicated column for more than 100 Gannett newspapers and for USA Today. Find Kim's show on the radio station nearest you. |
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