VoIP technology has existed for some time, but is now being recognized by the mainstream as a viable alternative to standard telephone service. You may wonder why some would even want to leave behind the telephones our Great-Grandparents knew and loved and opt for these wireless replacements, yet the reasons and facts are clearly visible.

VoIP offers many benefits, features, and cost savings that are not offered with standard telephone service. For instance, Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Call Waiting, Three Way Calling, and Call Transfer, are often included in your basic VoIP package at no additional cost. Users also appreciate the flexibility and freedom offered with using your Internet connection to not only handle your telephone needs, but your E-mail needs, Video and Web cam needs and Web application needs as well. VoIP can offer this integration and it has proved extremely beneficial to small business owners. All of these benefits have contributed to the rise and popularity of VoIP services.

However, this technology is not without its flaws. For instance, there is a big problem with the integration of VoIP technology and the Emergency 911 system. The Emergency system has been developing for many years, based upon the PSTN networks. Everyone knows that in case of an emergency, they can call 911 and help will be on the way. Yet, not was the case with many of VoIP’S early customers. Unfortunately, due to the fact that VoIP is wireless, 911 had no way of tracing VoIP calls. The US government’s response to the issue seems short of shutting down VoIP in favor of landlines. However, the FCC ruled that customers will be required to sign a statement that they acknowledge that their 911 services may be impaired due to VoIP. VoIP providers have responded by incorporating Enhanced 911 services and for allowing users to call and register their personal information with 911. Yet the fact remains, that a 911 operator cannot trace the VoIP call back to the location of the user.

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