Before shopping for VoIP software or hardware you need to decide what your requirements are. For example what features do you require when using VoIP?
- Fax
- Message system
- Speed dialing
- Caller ID
- Forwarding
These are just a few of the features that you will want to consider. You also need to decide whether you are going to purchase the VoIP equipment or go with a VoIP service that is hosted.
If you constantly find yourself cutting your calls short because you've ran out of call minutes for the month or long-distance calling is costing you too much, then a VoIP service that offers an unlimited-talk plan is highly recommended.
It's our natural instinct to buy things for as cheap as possible; no-one likes to pay more than they have to. When searching around for VoIP packages don't be afraid to ask what the provider can give you in order to get your business. There are a large number of VoIP companies that are trying to get you to sign up to their service, so make them work hard for it. Ask if the deal is the best price they can offer, and also ask what extras they can include with the package.
Once you have decided upon a VoIP service provider before signing up you should find out about the hardware. In most cases your provider will send you a VoIP phone adapter which needs to be connected to your modem and a handset. However look into whether you can choose the hardware that you receive and whether it will cost any extra. Some adapters come with some neat features so ask your provider for the hardware model and then look into what it offers. Obviously if you are given a number of models to choose from you can look into each one and then choose the best quality one.
As I mentioned earlier, one of the features that you may want to consider with your VoIP service is the use of fax. Some providers may not offer you the capability to do this whereas others will offer it but not without some problems on your part. I myself had this problem as I wasn't able to use the fax and make a phone call at the same time. This may not be a major problem for most people who rarely send faxes, but for those that do you will want to find this out whilst you shop around for VoIP packages.
As all of us should do (but most of us don't!) always read the small print. Some services may seem good a first glance but you will need to look into activation fees, disconnection fees, how much you have to pay for shipping the hardware to your door, and any other extra fees that there might be.
