At Kudzu Networks, one question we hear a lot is: “If I switch to fiber internet, what happens to my home phone?”
The good news: you don’t have to give it up! That’s where VoIP comes in.
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. That’s sounds technical, but it really just means using your internet connection to make phone calls instead of a traditional landline.
Here’s how it works:
- You pick up your phone and dial just like you always have
- Instead of traveling over old phone lines, your voice goes through your internet connection
- The person on he other end hears you the same way they would on a landline
It’s as simple as that!
Why is VoIP helpful?
- No need to worry – You can keep your current phone number.
- Use just like your old landline – You can still have a “landline” phone, but it runs through your internet.
- Saves money – Calls, especially long distance, are often much cheaper.
- Clear sound – With strong fiber internet, the call quality is crystal clear.
- Extra features – Things like caller i.d., call waiting, voicemail, fax all work as they always have.
- Security system compatible – Keep your home protected with fiber-based home phone service.
To use VoIP at home, you’ll just need a VoIP-compatible phone or an adapter that connects your regular phone to the internet. Once set up, it works just like the phone you’re used to.
One thing to keep in mind: since VoIP runs through the internet, it does depend on power. If electricity goes out, your phone service will too unless you have a UPS (uninterruptible power supply), which can keep it running during short outages.
So, if you’ve been holding out on switching to fiber because you don’t want to lose your home phone, you don’t have to worry. With VoIP you can keep the landline and enjoy all the benefits of fast, reliable fiber internet.