technt77

A recent article in PC World exploited some of the weaknesses with the VOIP system. The article explains that this form of communication is still young, and that though it has problems now, we shouldn't completely give up on it. We do, however, need to be aware of some of the common weaknesses.

technt77

#1: Dropped Calls -- Hiccups or outages in the broadband connection that VoIP service uses can disconnect calls in midconversation.

technt77

#1: Dropped Calls -- Hiccups or outages in the broadband connection that VoIP service uses can disconnect calls in midconversation.

technt77

Poor sound qualityBroadband has plenty of bandwidth to ensure high-quality voice transmission, but some users complain of choppiness, garbling, and latency problems.

technt77

VoIP providers must work with traditional phpone companies to carry over existing numbers; if you cancel your existing phone account before the VoIP provider completes the transfer, your old phone company may give your number to someone else. (Yikes!)

technt77

Some VoIP providers provide access to 911 emergency operators, but they don't transmit your phone number and address; as a result, you must give the operator that information when you place a 911 call. Other VoIP providers have no 911 access at all.

technt77

The fine print on many companies' terms of service imposes limitations you'd never find in a landline phone contract, such as fees for no using your connection often enough or for having substantially more outbound calls than inbound ones, or vice versa.