Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of services we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to VOIP Services.

Ratings

Service Plan and Fees

VOIP providers generally offer 500 calling minutes (local and long distance combined) in their basic plans and calls between users of the same service are free. Unlimited calling is generally up one level from a basic plan and increases the monthly price. Outside of the plan minutes, calls are charged per minute rates and international calls are charged at a separate rate.

Features

Basic calling features include Voicemail, Caller ID, 3-way Calling, Speed Dial, Call Waiting, Call Forwarding and Call Return (*69). Enhanced features include Repeat Dialing, Call Transfer, Call Block, Find Me (ringing on multiple telephone numbers) Do Not Disturb and Enhanced 911 Dialing.

Service features include transferring existing telephone numbers to a provider's VOIP service; option to choose a different area code;the use of the portable telephone adapter to use VOIP service anywhere there is an Internet connection; access to account statements online and calls forwarded to a safe number in the event the Internet is disrupted.

Ease of Installation/Setup

VOIP service is simple to install and setup. High-speed Internet is required (dial-up will not work) and a telephone adapter. Most providers will supply the adapter for free. A few providers require their customers to sign up with their Internet service and some service is not compatible with a USB modem.

Help/Support

VOIP provider's websites provide help/support such as frequently asked questions (FAQs) and contact information. An impressive website will offer additional help/support like installation/user guides, tutorials and user forums.

Installation

Free Installation/Activation

The VoIP service includes free activation or installation when you order a certian way; usually by phone or online.

Free Phone Adapter

The VoIP service includes a free phone adapter when you sign up for their services. This adapter is expected to be returned when service is canceled. However, most VoIP services require you pay for the adapter shipping and handling.

Activation Fee/ Setup Fee

The fee charged to activate your VoIP phone line. Sometimes this fee is waived.

Cancellation Fee

The fee the VoIP service charges when you cancel service. Most waive this fee if you cancel within the 14 or 30-day guarantee or if you've been a member for at least one year.

Service Plan Fees & Minutes

Unlimited Minutes

The evaluated service plan price includes unlimited incomming minutes.

Long Distance Calls (outgoing)

Outgoing calls made to the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.

Canada

The evaluated service plan price includes calls to Canada.

Puerto Rico

The service plan evaluated includes calls to Puerto Rico.

Select International Calls

The unlimited service plan includes calls made to additional countries around the world not including calls in United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. Popular countries include the UK, Ireland, Germany and France.

Free In-Network Calls

Free calls between subscribers of the same Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) service.

Business Plans

The VoIP service offers business plans in addition to residential plans.

Calling/Service Features

Voicemail

Similar to an answering machine within a telephone; callers can leave a recorded message.

Caller ID with Name

The service includes caller ID that displays the callers name and phone number.

Caller ID

The telephone number of an incoming call is shown in the telephone display window.

3-Way Calling

Three people from three different numbers can talk to each other at the same time.

Speed Dial

A telephone number can be dialed by pressing a preprogrammed button instead of the whole number.

Call Waiting

A signal indicates that a second call is coming in. The first call can be put on hold while the second call is answered.

Call Forwarding

Incoming calls forwarded to another telephone number.

Call Return (*69)

The last incoming telephone call can automatically be dialed by pressing *69.

Enhanced Calling Features

Repeat Dailing

Busy numbers are automatically dialed intermittently until a connection is made.

Call Transfer

Calls transferred to another number

Call Blocking

Specific incoming telephone numbers are blocked from ringing or connecting.

911 Service

The VoIP service has some kind of 911 feature for emergency calls.

Do Not Disturb

Incoming calls are forwarded to voicemail without ringing the telephone.

Free 411 Directory Assistance

The price of evaluated plan includes free calls to directory assistance.

Find Me

A feature in which a call can be forwarded to several telephones if the previous line is not answered.

Keep Existing Number

The VoIP service has the ability to "port" or transfer your current land line number to their service.

Choose Area Code

An area code can be used other than the area code a customer lives in.

Add a Line

A second telephone line.

SoftPhone

A software program that allows telephone calls to be made from a computer.

Toll-Free Number

Similar to reversing charges. Incoming long distance calls are charged to the customer's account.

Directory Assistance

411 information or operator assistance which locates unknown addresses and telephone numbers.

Virtual Phone Number

A second telephone number registered to a different area code. A person living in the virtual number's area code will not be charged for making calls from the virtual number.

Fax Support/Service

Faxes can be sent or received using the customer's primary number. Some providers require a separate dedicated line for an extra fee.

 ©2003 – 2008 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc.