How To Setup A VoIP Phone

VoIP is a fantastic technology, but it can be off-putting for newcomers who are unsure of what equipment they need and how to get it all setup. With this in mind, lets lay out how to connect your VoIP phone and start using it.

VoIP, as a system, is made up of the following components:

• Broadband internet connection
• Router
• VoIP phone, or
• Regular telephone + VoIP adapter

VoIP calls are made across the internet instead of through the old exchange-to-exchange PSTN system, so you have to plug your new VoIP phone into the internet to make and receive calls. Your VoIP provider will send you a router complete with instructions on setting it up. Once you have setup the router, plug in the phone and it should be working fine. If you subscribe to a broadband service from a cable company and have a cable / DSL modem, you need to plug the router into that.

Unlike the traditional landline system, which draws power from the phone line, a VoIP service will be affected by power blackouts. If you are concerned about not being able to make calls (such as 911 emergency calls) during a power outage, invest in an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS). Plug your modem / router / computer into the UPS so that it will be available in the event of an emergency situation.