VoIP Monitor - VoIP Advice

MyVoIPProvider Announces the Top 5 Residential VoIP Providers

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 21 May 2013 16:14:04 GMT

With Memorial Day and summer activities coming up, it’s easy to accidentally overspend. It doesn’t take much to max out the monthly budget by buying one more margarita, one more new summer outfit, or one more hot dog at the ballgame.

Luckily, there are some great strategies for saving money so there’s a little extra “fun money” left over after paying bills. One such money-saving strategy is switching to a cheaper phone service, like VoIP. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the technology behind Internet calling. Internet calling is a great deal cheaper than traditional phone service, which runs off of old analog telephone lines or cellular towers.

To help callers budget a little easier as they ease into summer expenses, My VoIP Provider announces the top 5 residential VoIP providers to help users save money and enjoy a little more “fun money” each month.

1. Axvoice

Axvoice offers some extremely cheap residential VoIP plans. Their cheapest plan is the Pay As You Go plan for $4.99/month per line, plus $0.019/minute for each call. This is great for callers who only need the bare minimum amount of calling per month. For users who do a little more calling, Axvoice offers their unlimited US and Canada plan for $8.25/month per line. All of Axvoice’s plans come with over 30 free features, like caller ID, telemarketer blocking, and voicemail.

2. VOIPo

VOIPo is one of the absolute cheapest residential VoIP providers out there. VOIPo users only pay $6.21/month per line with a two-year contract for unlimited Internet calling throughout the US and Canada. All users get over 40 monthly features, like caller ID, call blocking, and 3-way calling. VOIPo is based in Southern California and offers 100% US support, so users are never without help if they run into any technical difficulties.

3. ITP

ITP one of the very best home VoIP providers for cheap nationwide and international Internet calling. ITP’s unlimited calling plan for the US and Canada runs for $9.99/month per line. For $24.99/month per line, users can upgrade to the Global Unlimited plan, which offers unlimited access to 60 countries worldwide, including Spain, China, the UK, and Turkey. ITP users also get a ton of free features like call blocking and call waiting.

4. Phone Power

With Phone Power, users can buy one year of home VoIP service and get the next year for free. Users pay a flat $199 for two year’s of service, which equals out to an average $16.58/month per line. This is a great option for users who want to invest their money all at once, and not worry about monthly bills for the rest of the year. Phone Power is also a nifty VoIP provider because it includes an iPhone mobile app so users can utilize cheap mobile VoIP on go with their smartphones.

5. VoIP.com

VoIP.com has a little bit of everything. All of their domestic plans include unlimited Internet calling to the US and Canada, as well as 60 free minutes for international calling. VoIP.com’s residential plans also include a free second line and number portability so users can keep their current phone number when they switch to VoIP.com. Users pay upfront for one year of residential VoIP phone service. This breaks down to $12.50/month per line, though since users get that second line for free, this equals out to a cheap $6.25/month per line.

VoIP Supply's Guides to Simple, Easy and Affordable Video Conferencing

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 21:35:24 GMT

VoIP Supply announces the availability of free guides that are intended to help small and medium sized businesses learn about and select the video conferencing solutions that best suit them.

Long recognized for its depth of product knowledge and industry expertise, VoIP Supply sets the standard for vertical e.tailing – providing value-based pricing across its comprehensive product catalog, expert technical support, rapid product provisioning and installation, global logistics services and market-making promotions for manufacturers of all sizes.

For businesses who want to adopt videoconferencing solutions, VoIP Supply provides the same value-based pricing, product expertise and simple purchase experience that over 120,000 customers have come to expect, with access to live experts, who are fully trained and certified, ready to deliver advice and a purchase experience that is second to none.

In order to demystify video conferencing for businesses, VoIP Supply is providing two, free how-to guides to the technologies and buying decisions: "A Guide to Video Conferencing," and "The Do's and Don'ts of Video Conferencing."

"There is a great need for educational resources that explain the various components that comprise a complete videoconferencing solution, so that solid purchase decisions can be made," stated Garrett Smith, Chief Marketing Officer at VoIP Supply. "These guides are that type of resource."

Written in a vendor neutral and straightforward style by the videoconferencing equipment experts at VoIP Supply, the guides are a free download> that enables anyone to:

Learn videoconferencing phone technology
Explore business applications of videoconferencing
Understand how videoconferencing technology works: standards, security, compression, and data sharing
Evaluate current offerings
And gain valuable insights to make the right purchase decision

snom Offers Free SIP Online Training Course for Resellers

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:00:55 GMT

snom announces a new e-learning course focused on SIP fundamentals - SIP 101. This course is the latest addition to snom's new online training program introduced earlier this spring and is available free to registered snom VARs from North and South America, Australia and New Zealand. SIP 101 will serve as a prerequisite to enrollment in the company's online snom ONE Certification Training course.

Busy VARs can gain valuable, hands-on experience with all aspects of SIP, without the time and expense of traditional courses. "By enrolling in our SIP 101 e-learning course VARs from around the world can learn fundamental SIP basics online and on their own time. This course is a prerequisite first step for VARs on the path to our snom ONE Certification Training and new business opportunities created by working with the snom ONE family of IP PBX solutions," said Mike Storella, chief operating officer of snom technology, Inc.

The SIP 101 course is a modularized, online, Flash-based training course, complete with animations and quizzes to help engage trainees. Participants can complete an online assessment upon course completion to earn snom SIP 101 certification.

Eligibility for the SIP 101 certification class is open to registered snom VARs in the Americas, Australia and New Zealand who can register quickly and easily at onlinetraining.snom.com. snom will be offering more online courses about snom products and key aspects of its SIP-based technology in the coming months.

VoIP Fraud Could Kill Your Company - FraudStopper Kills the Fraud

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 22:50:02 GMT

ECG announces the success of FraudStopper, a new toll-fraud detection system optimized for VoIP providers. FraudStopper was deployed in June 2011 at a nationwide CLEC based in New York City. The system has successfully detected numerous incidents of attempted theft of service, saving the CLEC tens of thousands of dollars in losses for international termination.

VoIP Toll Fraud became a major issue for many carriers in November 2010, when thieves began using the "SIPVicious" security scanning tool to search the Internet for VoIP service that could be stolen. ECG estimates that over US $1M in international termination service has been stolen by criminals targeting VoIP service providers in the United States. Some individual incidents have amounted to more than US $160,000.

Most fraud detection systems have simplistic thresholds to identify risky behavior. If a customer appears to make a large number of international calls, the system will alert automatically. But if that same customer routinely makes a large number of international calls and pays for the service, it could simply be their normal course of business. Such simplistic schemes cannot handle the wide diversity among VoIP customers, some of whom make no international calls, while others make numerous calls.

“FraudStopper learns the normal behavior for customers by analyzing historical billing records to determine what is routine for each individual,” said James Puckett, President of ECG. “Statistics are tracked per customer in the User Behavior Database. When international calling occurs that does not match a customer's profile, FraudStopper can detect that change and report the risk.”

However, ordinary activity on a Monday might be fraudulent levels on a Saturday. FraudStopper's dynamic database understands weekly patterns of work. The User Behavior Database compares details from the day of the week extending far into the past to make accurate judgments and reduce false positives.

Alerting from FraudStopper is done through email and SNMP. The email describes the user suspected of fraud, and the historical profile for the user. This allows operations staff to determine the risk and make a judgment. The SNMP trap allows integration with Network-Management tools like HP OpenView and SolarWinds.

The Real-Time Call Progress Monitor in FraudStopper can receive input data from practically any source. Full integration with real-time or batched data sources is available. ECG has integrated using CDRs from Metaswitch, BroadSoft, Acme Packet, Alcatel-Lucent, and others.

Introducing the VoIP Supply Reclaim Program

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 04:51:27 GMT

VoIP Supply announces the launch of their Reclaim VoIP equipment buyback program. Under the Reclaim program, companies and individuals can sell their used or excess VoIP equipment to VoIP Supply in return for store credit or direct payout.

The Reclaim program was designed based on VoIP Supply’s roots in IT asset management and experience in the supply of VoIP equipment. Through Reclaim, sellers undertake an easy four step process to receive fair market value for their equipment allowing them to receive back a portion of their initial investment in this equipment.

“Spending has increased this year as the economy continues to improve, but this spending is still very tight” stated Benjamin Sayers, CEO of VoIP Supply LLC. “Reclaim is a perfect vehicle for those with restricted budgets to recapitalize existing equipment assets in order to increase their overall budget available for new technology investments.”

Reclaim also provides companies currently utilizing VoIP with a more affordable way to upgrade to the latest in VoIP technology.

“New technologies such as HD (High Definition) voice can be a tough sell for companies that just purchased new handsets a year or two ago,’ stated Garrett Smith Director of Marketing and Business Development at VoIP Supply, LLC. “These companies certainly realize the value in utilizing new technologies like HD voice, but are faced with budgetary limitations. With Reclaim these companies can lessen the blow of upgrading to these new technologies by reclaiming some of their initial investment in their legacy equipment and putting it towards the cost of newer offerings.”

In addition to new capital for technology investments and more affordable upgrades, many sellers will also benefit from the ability to properly dispose of their legacy or excess equipment.

Every year billions of dollars worth of perfectly acceptable and operational equipment sits idle in a storage room or closet leaving many with financial, environmental and security liabilities. Reclaim allows companies to properly recycle this excess or legacy equipment, preventing e-waste and putting the equipment to good use.

Check out more information about VoIP Supply’s Reclaim VoIP equipment buyback program.

FreedomVOICE Recommends VoIP Expert Profiles to Follow on Twitter

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:50:23 GMT

FreedomVOICE announces 25 VoIP and hosted VoIP experts to follow on Twitter. The list of VoIP and hosted VoIP experts can be found on the FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP Blog. VoIP and hosted VoIP experts abound on Twitter. But where do you turn to find these inspired few? You can try your luck on search.twitter.com or other engines. You can dig through popular Twitter profile followers. Or, you can look at top Twitter profile lists.

FreedomVOICE has created this VoIP expert Twitter profile list to help tech enthusiasts find valuable profiles to follow on Twitter. Each of the Twitter profiles listed here reports on VoIP and/or tech news and offers valuable information. Visit the FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP Blog to see the recommended VoIP and hosted VoIP profiles on Twitter.

If FreedomVOICE has not mentioned an expert you enjoy following, or if you are a VoIP or hosted VoIP expert yourself, please add your Twitter profile information to the blog by leaving a comment.

FreedomVOICE would like to welcome all VoIP and tech enthusiast to post their Twitter profile information to the blog. Through doing this, FreedomVOICE hopes to connect like minded individuals and enhance the Twitter experience.

Visit the FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP Blog to see who made the list and add your own Twitter profile!

Junction Networks Decides to Test and Review SIP Phones

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:06:37 GMT

Small and medium-sized businesses often turn to hosted IP PBX services for rich features, multi-site convenience, zero maintenance and lower phone bills. Now they’ll have help picking the right phones. Junction Networks, makers of Hosted VoIP service OnSIP, has begun a review site where their engineering team will regularly post evaluations and the results of their independent, vigorous tests on SIP phones, soft phones and other user agents.

“Once customers plug in and register their phones as extensions to a SIP PBX, whether hosted or on-premise, they should have no further worries about that phone’s capabilities,” says Robert Wolpov, Junction Networks president. “We put each phone through a multi-step interoperability test of 32 basic functions, as outlined in the SIP specification: ring, go on hold, transfer, and so on. If a phone fails any one of them, we’ll let you know.” They also judge models by subjective criteria such as voice quality and ease and comfort of use.

Wolpov points out that Junction Networks, unlike most other hosted IP PBX companies, does not resell any particular vendor’s phone, allowing it to make unbiased judgments (and allowing OnSIP customers to use any SIP-compliant device they may already own). “At the same time,” he notes, “our experience with a wide range of customers allows us to fit a review to the user scenario. We’ll advise you, for example, that high-definition audio quality is a worthwhile splurge, but if you’re choosing a conference room phone that won’t be used much, it’s ok to save money with traditional audio quality.”

The site is kicking off with Linksys SPA942, Polycom 331, and Snom 320 VoIP phone reviews. Junction Networks intends to review more of the 20 phones whose configuration details are already listed on the OnSIP Knowledgebase, as well as new models as they’re released. They’ll use Twitter (www.twitter.com/onsip) to tell followers when new results are posted. They also hope to receive the same requests for evaluation that vendors commonly send the testing labs of trade and consumer media. Readers are welcome to talk back with their own comments on reviews and phones.

FreedomVOICE Announces 2009 FreedomIQ VoIP Phone Buyer's Guide

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:28:08 GMT

FreedomVOICE released a premier VoIP phone buyer's guide for the FreedomIQ service. The guide will help decision makers select the best VoIP phone for their business.

“There are literally hundreds of VoIP phones to choose from,” says Eric Thomas, CEO of FreedomVOICE. “This buyer’s guide lists our most popular phones and gives business owners the information they need to make an informed decision.”

The guide takes a close look at 7 VoIP phones recommended by FreedomVOICE for the FreedomIQ service. In addition to providing product shots and a full range of information on each phone, many of the phones featured in the online guide offer a video review. No matter what VoIP phone capabilities a business is looking for, the VoIP Phone Buyer's Guide has an option to support that business.

“This year’s lineup of VoIP phones is the best we’ve ever had to offer. Our goal is to stay on the cutting edge so our customers have the best equipment and features available right at their fingertips,” says Thomas.

With a dedication to quality, FreedomVOICE has long been recognized as an authority in VoIP equipment, call quality, and customer service. Due to this, the company only selects top-of-the-line products to integrate with the award-winning FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP PBX. The 2009 FreedomIQ VoIP Phone Buyer's Guide provides business owners with an opportunity to look at quality VoIP phones to use with the exceptional FreedomIQ service.

Check out the 2009 FreedomIQ VoIP Phone Buyer's Guide to find the perfect VoIP phone for your business.

FreedomVOICE Announces the FreedomIQ Review: Episode 1 Reviews Cisco WIP310 Wireless-G

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:56:58 GMT

FreedomVOICE, creators of the FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP PBX, released a review of the Cisco WIP310 Wireless-G VoIP phone. The segment, known as the FreedomIQ Review, is the first in a series of video reviews surrounding VoIP-related products.

“We have developed the FreedomIQ Review as a way to present exciting VoIP products to the business community,” says Eric Thomas, CEO of FreedomVOICE. “Each review will highlight the most important features to consider when determining whether a product is correct for your business.”

As a constantly evolving segment, the FreedomIQ Review will critique the latest software and products in the VoIP industry. The premiere video, released today, will focus on the Cisco WIP310 Wireless-G.

Due to an overwhelming amount of requests for a Wi-Fi phone, FreedomVOICE kept a close relationship with Linksys Cisco for over 9 months in anticipation of the WIP310 release. During that time, FreedomVOICE tested almost every option on the market, however, the Cisco WIP310 proved to be the superior device. The FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP PBX by FreedomVOICE is the first VoIP service provider to offer the WIP310.

According to Thomas, the Cisco WIP310 Wireless-G has been an exciting addition to the FreedomIQ hosted VoIP service. Thomas mentions that the product has created a “tremendous buzz” in the business community, and has even become a driving force behind some business owner’s decision to adopt the FreedomIQ service.

As a dynamic and powerful device, the introduction of the Cisco WIP310 marks a new level of maturity in wireless VoIP. The WIP310 works within 300 feet of an Internet connection, provides impressive browsing capabilities, and allows for 3 hours talk time and 40 hours standby between charging.

Now with the WIP310, mobile professionals can enjoy all of the advanced features of their FreedomIQ Hosted VoIP PBX from any location with wireless Internet access.

Watch Episode 1 of the FreedomIQ Review to learn more about this amazing product.

FreedomVOICE Offers 9 Ways to Slash Phone Costs and Increase Productivity in a Recession

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:42:03 GMT

FreedomVOICE lists nine recommendations to help business leaders slash phone costs and increase productivity during a recession. In an effort to help business owners realize the tremendous savings and productivity benefits a hosted VoIP PBX phone solution can provide, FreedomVOICE has compiled a list of 9 ways to slash phone costs and increase productivity in a recession. By subscribing to the FreedomIQ hosted VoIP PBX service, you’ll be able to save money in the following ways:

1. Switch to VoIP

No matter what your industry, call costs for VoIP service is significantly cheaper than call costs for analog phone service. Also, almost all VoIP providers promote a free 30 day money back guarantee and offer domestic long distance calls at no additional cost. According to Jay Schukoske, President of Beach Associates Inc, Beach Associates saved over 50% by switching to VoIP.

2. Use a Hosted PBX Service

Your phone equipment no longer has to be physically located on site. Electing to go the hosted VoIP PBX provider route allows businesses to forgo the large expense associated with purchasing an onsite phone system, as the hosting company will keep the equipment at their location and allow you to access it via the Internet. Users appreciate a hosted system because they don’t have to set aside precious office space for the phone system equipment. The only equipment that needs to be purchased with a hosted solution is the VoIP enabled phones. Using a hosted VoIP PBX solution also means that the business does not have to maintain expensive on-site call switching hardware. Overall, a hosted VoIP PBX saves businesses time, energy, and money.

3. Reduce Staff

If you’re using a hosted VoIP PBX system, then all IT support, maintenance and upgrades will be handled by your solution provider. This will allow you to reduce your staff and cut costs in IT. But making use of a PBX also lets you reduce staff in the administrative department. With today’s VoIP phone system technology, you’ll never need to have someone answer your phone again. After setting up an automated attendant greeting and automatic call transfer, customers will be easily routed to your line without the assistance of a live employee. This means you’ll be able to eliminate the phone receptionist position - if you want to. Hosted PBX services are very flexible and can typically be set up however is best for your company.

4. Avoid System Software Maintenance

Forget purchasing upgraded firmware for your phones. Hosted VoIP PBX providers regularly update your VoIP phones so that you don’t need to. You’ll love having the latest features on a consistent basis. With a traditional PBX, it’s virtually impossible to upgrade to new features and functionality without a forklift to haul out your old system and replace it with the new.

5. Growth Made Easy

Ready to expand? A hosted PBX solution allows you to add or remove phones at will. This means you don’t need to purchase a fixed large phone system in hopes of growth. Instead, you can simply order a new line when the time is right. If for some reason you experience a loss in employees, canceling a line is just as easy.

6. Encourage Telecommuting

A. Reduce Travel Expense

With a hosted VoIP PBX, it becomes easy to access the advanced features of your phone system from a remote location. All a user has to do is connect to the Internet and log in to their VoIP phone and they’ll be able to immediately utilize the same digital phone tools available at the office. With no need to commute, you and your employees can save on fuel costs.

B. Use Visual Call Reports and Recorded Calls to Manage Remote Employees.

Many hosted VoIP PBX providers enable call record and call reporting. Recorded calls and call reports allow business owners to closely manage remote employees and resolve disputes. Through these means, employers can ensure employees are doing their job and providing quality customer service. Chris Lounder, President and Founder of Cruise Adventure Travel Inc., experienced the benefits of visual call reports and call recording capabilities first hand. After switching to FreedomIQ, he had no need for a central office and was able to take his company “100% virtual.”Each employee or agent now works remote from their home office.

C. Save Money on Office Space

Today’s business VoIP phone systems make the virtual office more attractive than ever before. After switching to a hosted VoIP PBX, you’ll be able to work as a team no matter where you and your employees are located. Even if you’re dispersed across the nation, the seamless PBX transfers will lead customers to believe that you’re all working from one office. With no need for an established location, you’ll be able to save on office space costs.

D. Save Money on Utilities

If your employees are telecommuting, then you’ll be able to cut back on utility usage and reduce expenses. By reducing energy consumption you’ll help the environment.

E. Pull from a Greater Talent Pool

When telecommuting becomes a part of your companies culture it opens up a world of opportunities, one of those being the opportunity to pull from a greater talent pool. With no need for a central office, you can recruit from locations around the globe. The larger your talent pool, the better chance you’ll have to get the perfect fit for your business. This can also result in reduced costs, as income levels fluctuate based on region.

7. Unify Your Communications

Hosted phone systems let you more easily unify your communications. For instance, the FreedomIQ hosted VoIP PBX allows you to have voicemails and faxes sent straight to your inbox. It also lets you integrate your outlook contacts. Unifying communications saves time and increases productivity.

8. Utilize a Softphone

In the case that you don’t want to buy a digital phone, but have access to a computer, many VoIP providers can now integrate with a softphone. Softphones are software applications that let you use your computer as a telephone. Certain softphones, such as the X-Lite 3.0 Softphone from Counterpath, are available at no cost.

9. Increase Productivity with Voice-to-Text

Voice-to-Text technology transcribes voice messages and sends them to your email with the audio file attached. Access to voicemail messages in text form allows a user to clearly determine what was said in a message. With this feature you’ll be able to quickly scan voicemails on your phone and PC without having to listen to the actual message.

Nuvio Announces ''Soft Landing'' Program for Disrupted SkyWi OneConnect Customers

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:02:46 GMT

Nuvio announces a “Soft Landing” program to assist SkyWi and OneConnectIP VoIP customers that have been recently affected by service disruptions. Nuvio’s “Soft Landing” Program waives activation fees to all current SkyWi and OneConnectIP customers. Additionally, Nuvio is waiving its yearly contract requirement for these customers. Nuvio has also obtained cooperation from some of the underlying telephone number carriers to minimize any potential for customer to lose phone numbers.

Affected customers should visit Nuvio’s web site at www.nuvio.com to begin the conversion process.

Get Your FREE PBX Buyer's Guide from PBX-Guide Today!

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 20:23:58 GMT

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Simply visit PBX-Guide and fill out their short form and get your FREE step-by-step PBX Guide today.

Companies Switching to VoIP to Streamline Telecom Expenses

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:15:59 GMT

As experts continue to call out the latest signs of an approaching recession, businesses respond by cinching up their budgets. But, for those already tasked with keeping their bottom line lean, new ways of cutting costs are getting harder to find, says Bryan Martin, CEO of Internet phone service provider 8x8, Inc.

"In an economy like this, there's a gut reaction to put the breaks on new spending. But, we often overlook the fact that there is room to cut the day-to-day costs of doing business," Martin says.

From remote towns to large metropolitan areas, businesses are adding Internet-based digital phone service to their short list of cost-cutting measures.

Internet telephony technology, otherwise known as VoIP, lets companies deploy a full-featured business phone system over their existing broadband network for a fraction of the cost of traditional alternatives.

Joe Rork is no stranger to recession and the havoc it plays on business. As a technology consultant with a long association with a top U.S. automaker, his home state of Michigan was hit hard.

"We learned earlier than the rest of the country that we were going to have to get pretty creative financially to keep our businesses running and our customers coming in."

Rork currently serves as chief technologist for Plymouth's Green Street Fair, an annual event to help educate and inform people about the benefits of green, organic, and eco-friendly products and services. The Green Street Fair has used 8x8's Packet8 Virtual Office digital phone service every step of the way.

Watching every penny he spends is an art he's had to become very proficient at -- quickly. "One of the easiest things I did right off was to be sure we were using Internet technology for our phone systems. Not only is it a huge savings for us in terms of cost, it's the safest and easiest way we can move our office from headquarters to the event location without missing a beat."

In Fort Myers, Fla., business owner Bert Hamilton of Harvey Software, can't go a day without being reminded of the impact of a precarious economy roiled by soaring fuel prices. His company writes shipping software that gives customers more control over their shipping costs.

"We tell our customers that if our software does not save their company money, we did not do our job." It's getting harder to say that these days. "When carriers like UPS and FedEx have to increase their fuel surcharges, we're left to figure out how to help our customers deal with it," says Hamilton.

Hamilton had relied on traditional phone services for 25 years, but after switching over to Packet8, he and his customers have been instantly rewarded. "Virtual Office has cut our costs in half and our customers have noticed a big difference in the way their calls are handled," says Hamilton.

Using the Internet to make calls is a technological marvel to some. For others, it comes down to simply making the smart play. "As to the future of the Internet and its use as a business tool, we've barely scratched the surface," says Martin.

JAJAH and Dial2Do Bring You Hands-Free Voice-Activated Global Calling

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 20:33:45 GMT

Dial2Do and JAJAH bring you hands-free voice-activated global calling – simply by saying the words.

How it Works

Using Dial2Do, you simply call a local number (+1-213-325-2615 in the U.S.), say the word “JAJAH,” and then select one of three JAJAH services—call, text or conference.

To call a contact, say “JAJAH call”
To send a JAJAH text message (SMS) say “JAJAH text”
To set up a group call, say “JAJAH conference”

For calls and conferences, JAJAH initiates the call to anyone in your Dial2Do address book and rings the caller back immediately to connect the call. The service is accessible on any phone and does not require any new hardware, software or download.

The Dial2Do service is currently in private beta, but JAJAH users are being given a special invitation. As a registered JAJAH user you just visit http://www.dial2do.com/jajah, click “Register” to begin and enter the code "dial2jajah."

New VoIP Job Listings Available on VoIP Monitor

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:43:47 GMT

I'd like to take this opportunity to invite our readers and potential VoIP employers to check out our new VoIP Jobs listing. We recently switched from using Careerbuilder to Job-a-matic. With Job-a-matic, our listings are displayed across the Simply Hired network, which means they'll be seen at sites like Simply Hired, LinkedIn, and MySpace.

So get started today and checkout our current VoIP Jobs and VoIP employers looking to hire can post a job for only $50 for 30 days!

Is Vonics VoIP Provider Pulling a Disappearing Act?

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 09 May 2008 19:04:14 GMT

This was brought to my attention from a few helpful users posting their comments about Vonics on our VoIP Providers page. It would appear that Vonics has pulled a Harry Houdini with their website and service disappearing into thin air. Here are some recent comments and reviews of Vonics services:

From The Roadkill: Does anyone know what is going on with Vonics? They told me 2 days ago they were having Switch issues "Due to recent changes made at our switch level, one of our CLEC’s has run into problems with a very small number of Vonics subscriber phone numbers pointing to the right equipment"

Now all of a sudden I have no phone service, no way to reach them (emails have gone un-answered) any number I can find for them all seem to come up disconnected. Even the website has gone dark. (ie can't connect) Oddly I reached them yesterday and logged into the account and website yesterday. Help!!!

From Freddy: "Same problem here - no service. Website gone. Can't ping any of their addresses. Looks like they vanished. Good Luck. They suck big time. Luckily I only have 2 months left."

From Russell: "Vonics has vanished... Yesterday my phone died. For the last 2 months I have been unable to reach them via phone or email. Their website is gone too. Now I am left with 15 months of service and no phone."

Overall just looking at users comments on Vonics it would appear this companies service has been very hit or miss and usually a miss. You can read all the users comments and reviews posted on our VoIP Providers page.

AOL Introduces Open Voice APIs

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:01:18 GMT

AOL introduces Open Voice APIs to provide third-party developers and VoIP device manufacturers with open standards protocols that will enable them to easily integrate the AIM Call Out service into softphones, as well as SIP-enabled hardware and cell phones with wi-fi connectivity. AIM Call Out integration will enable users to make low cost voice calls from anywhere in the world using the Internet to relay these calls. The Open Voice APIs can be found at http://dev.aol.com/aimcall.

AIM Call Out is a pay-as-you-go outbound voice calling service built right into AIM that lets users make calls to landline and cell phones in more than 200 countries. This service complements the existing AIM Talk service, a free PC-to-PC voice calling service available to AIM users.

AIM Call Out offers low per-minute rates with no connection fee or monthly charge. Users pay for call credits in increments as low as $5. AIM users can visit http://call-out.aim.com/rates for a complete list of long distance rates.

Users can also make phone-to-phone calls using the Web Connect feature within the AIM Call Out service. Users simply enter their phone number and then the phone number of a friend. In a few seconds, the user’s phone will ring and then connect them to their friend’s phone.1 AIM users can manage all of their voice activities using AIM Call Out and Web Connect from their personal Voice Dashboard and can learn more about the services at http://call.aim.com.

The AOL Developer Network provides third-party developers with direct access to AOL's technology platforms and open APIs. For more information about available open APIs, tools, and documentation for services such as AOL Video Uploads, Open Xdrive, Truveo, Userplane, MapQuest, Winamp, OpenAuth, and others, please visit http://dev.aol.com/.

Buyer's Guide and Comparison Guide of Leading IP PBX Vendors

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:12:38 GMT

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VoIP Logic Announces Knowledge Base for Self-Service VoIP Issue Resolution

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:17:52 GMT

VoIP Logic announces the availability of its Support Portal Knowledge Base. VoIP Logic’s Knowledge Base will serve as an invaluable, self-service resource for the company’s customers and partners by providing full transparency to the latest solutions and scripts , addressing more than 500 hundred engineering issues on all VoIP Logic-supported systems, including NextPoint (NexTone), Sylantro, Iperia, Acme, Talking SIP, as well as general tools and tutorials for effective VoIP network management.

“Prompt response time and a strong sense of partnership with our customers begin with sharing engineering knowledge. It is essential that service providers have all resources at their disposal so that they may ensure the best possible end-user experience,” said VoIP Logic Vice President, Engineering, Roberto Rojas. He continued, “VoIP Logic not only takes great pride in simplifying VoIP rollouts for carriers and service providers but we also continue to invest heavily in personnel and systems that ensure our customers have access to tools that enable prompt resolution of critical issues.”

Technical service and support have clearly reached critical mass in terms of their contributions to customer retention and satisfaction. According to survey results released by the Service and Support Professionals Association, respondents say a clear focus in 2008 will be the continued proliferation of online communities and knowledge base(s).

MobileVoIPReview.com Reviews of Mobile VoIP Service Providers

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 19:20:00 GMT

MobileVoIPReview.com announced its initial launch. MobileVoIPReview.com features Mobile VoIP reviews generated by consumers as well as news, interviews and analysis of the industry. This is the first phase in a planned three phase site feature role out.

The Mobile VoIP industry is currently experiencing explosive growth. Many analysts predict that 2008 is set to be the year that Mobile VoIP moves to the forefront of communications technologies disrupting the status quo. According to a November Far Point Group survey, over 25% of the respondents stated that mobile VoIP was the application that they are most likely to add in 2008. In fact a November 2007 Distruptive Analysis report stated that VoIPo3G (VoIP over 3G networks or Mobile VoIP) will be more important than VoWLAN (Voice over Wireless networks), for operators and 3rd parties over the next four years.

MobileVoIPReview.com was born out of the need for increased consumer education and insights into the many providers of the service and the benefits of using the site. At launch, the site features reviews of leading Mobile VoIP service providers like Truphone, Rebtel, Skype and fring. Future plans call for the site to expand by offering a service provider comparison tool and a forum where Mobile VoIP service users can connect.

VoIP Supply Launches Go3 Guaranteed Replacement Warranty Program

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 22:33:45 GMT

VoIP Supply announces the launch of their new three-year, no-questions-asked, guaranteed replacement warranty, Go3. The new Go3 Guaranteed Replacement Warranty gives customers a no hassle way to protect their VoIP hardware purchases. The new warranty program is based off of VoIP Supply's existing warranty program and was redesigned with feedback from existing customers.

"Our customer service is VoIP Supply's number one priority," said Benjamin P. Sayers, CEO of VoIP Supply. "We have been successful due to our wonderful customer's trust and support. The Go3 Guaranteed Replacement Warranty is just another way that we can bring our clients needs to the forefront."

The Go3 Guaranteed Replacement Warranty allows customers to protect their VoIP Supply hardware investments. Their hardware is completely covered for a full three years from the date of purchase. If the equipment fails, malfunctions, or ceases to operate properly for any reason (manufacturer defect, component failure or user negligence), VoIP Supply will provide a replacement.

Unlike most extended warranty programs offered by retailers, with Go3 there is no fine print or run-around during the redemption process. The only conditions include purchasing the equipment from VoIP Supply and returning it within the three-year period. The coverage must also be purchased at the point of sale, and it is not refundable.

I'd also like to give a shout out to one of our sponsors IP Camera Supply a sister site of VoIP Supply.

VoIP Phone Services Putting Seniors at Risk

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 17:21:10 GMT

Traditional medical alert units, often worn by seniors around their neck or wrist to call for help in case of a fall or other adverse event, were designed to communicate by way of POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service). After placing a telephone call, the emergency unit sends information from the home to the monitoring center to determine which emergency unit is calling and what type of help is needed. When consumers switch to digital phone service, the data can be distorted or omitted as the bandwidth of the internet service provider fluctuates, resulting in missed or inaccurate emergency reporting at the monitoring center.

In recent months, a growing number of seniors have switched from traditional phone service to bundled packages in order to save money on the service. For many seniors living on fixed incomes, the monthly savings have come just in time to offset rising gas prices and other healthcare costs. However, the switch may come at a much higher price if emergency help is not available when someone needs it most. “The biggest problem is that consumers are switching to VOIP service, and without knowing it, they have significantly reduced the reliability of a device designed to help them remain safe and independent,” says Andy Schoonover, President of Valued Relationships Inc., a leading medical alert provider. “Many medical alert providers have no way of knowing the change has occurred until something goes awry.” Unfortunately, some medical alert providers have taken the strategy of telling customers that traditional solutions will work, even when they are not reliable and could fail at any time. Similar problems exist for home security systems, so if you have non-traditional phone service, you should check with your security company to ensure that your service will remain operational.

VRI has recently announced a new solution for medical alert units used with VOIP. In response to the growing number of seniors switching to VOIP service, VRI has introduced “DIGICARE”. DIGICARE is a VOIP compatible PERS unit that leverages proprietary hardware and software changes in the company’s CSAA 5 Diamond Certified Medical Alert Monitoring Center to receive both emergency and maintenance calls from medical alert units without the risk of interference or data loss from VOIP bandwidth issues. “This is a significant accomplishment for our team,” says Mr. Schoonover. “We committed to providing a cost-effective, reliable option for seniors with VOIP service, and are excited to announce that we have made that commitment a reality.” To the company’s knowledge, it is the only solution currently available in the medical alert industry to address VOIP issues.

Keys for Successful VoIP Deployments from Streamcore

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:58:36 GMT

Streamcore published a list of key considerations for successfully deploying VoIP. Streamcore issues these tips to inform organizations that VoIP phones are not to blame for dropped or delayed calls, but rather the organization needs to ensure their network can handle the congestion from other traffic as well as properly prioritizing VoIP traffic.

As more organizations deploy VoIP, it is important to have quality calls that are not disrupted by other business-critical applications sharing bandwidth such as video conferencing, file transfers, Citrix or email which also take up bandwidth and compete with VoIP. If VoIP does not get the bandwidth needed to run properly, calls will become noticeably patchy and delayed, and will affect the organization’s day to day business. Organizations need to allot the necessary bandwidth to handle applications, especially when there are various applications running on the network.

Streamcore offers these tips to help organizations improve call quality when deploying VoIP.

Make VoIP a “VIP” – Organizations should prioritize VoIP traffic above other applications with less criticality, so calls are flawless under any circumstance without any disruptions. VoIP calls need sufficient bandwidth and by prioritizing applications based on importance, organizations can ensure intelligent use of bandwidth that puts VoIP first.
VoIP Visibility – Network and application visibility allow organizations to receive reports on the network, and measure quality to ensure better calls. IT can track bandwidth usage and monitor the quality of applications to understand where and how VoIP quality is adversely affected.
Troubleshoot issues – Identify performance problems with VoIP by making sure there is real-time ability to fine-tune application delivery to guarantee VoIP traffic has the highest priority based on network conditions.
Monitor call quality – By monitoring MOS (mean opinion score) of call at the user level, organizations will have a better understanding of VoIP success and will be able to adjust VoIP to ensure its MOS score is always as close to the ideal as possible for a strong end-user quality of experience.

VoIP will continue to play a major part in businesses today, but it demands priority in the network for success. Organizations considering these tips will appreciate improved VoIP performance via enhanced network and application management which will not impact the performance of other business applications.

Walt Mossberg's Review on T-Mobiles VoIP Service

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 19:36:08 GMT

T-Mobile is rolling out a new system that allows you to use a cellphone account with any corded or cordless home phone. The system works well and is extremely simple to set up and use, but there are some drawbacks. Walt Mossberg shares his findings.

Test Your VoIP Connection for Free at Bandwidth.com

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 17:59:36 GMT

Bandwidth.com improved their online VoIP Test at http://www.bandwidth.com/tools/voipTest. The free test measures critical factors of your Internet connection such as throughput, latency, and SIP port tests to see if your connection can handle VoIP calls.

A critical factor in deciding whether your connection can handle VoIP is upload speed. While connections supplied by cable companies and traditional telecom companies have fast download speed, the upload speed is usually much slower, such as 400 Kbps for ADSL and 400-600 Kbps for cable. Using such a connection for both Internet and VoIP applications may result in poor call quality. A T1 connection from Bandwidth.com provides 1.54 Mbps of upload speed.

VOIP Technology Quick Guide Released by Javvin

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 18:07:03 GMT

Javvin Technologies has just published the VOIP Technology Quick Guide. Designed for networking and telecom engineers, IT admins and communication technology educators and students, this VOIP technology quick guide covers all related technologies: the VOIP Protocols, the network architecture based on all major signaling technologies: SIP, H.323 and xGCP, VOIP transport and QoS technologies, and video and audio codecs. A comprehensive VOIP Glossary is also included for quick reference.

The highlights of the VOIP Quick Guide are listed below:

A comprehensive VOIP technology guide for networking and telecom professionals.
An easy to use training reference for telecom and data networking technology students to get an overall picture of VOIP communications.
VOIP network architecture and communication protocols.
Covers all major VOIP signaling technologies, such as SIP, H.323 and xGCP (H.248).
Presents VOIP transport and QoS technologies.
Detailed information on commonly used video and audio codecs.
Comprehensive glossary and dictionary for the VOIP technologies and applications.
Designed by experts with decades of experience in data and tele- communication industries.

The details of the VOIP Quick Guide can be found at http://www.javvin.com/voip-guide.html.

Raketu's New VoIP Calling Web Application for iPhone and iPod Touch

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 20:35:30 GMT

Raketu releases its VoIP calling web application for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch. The new web-based application allows Apple iPhone and iPod Touch users to make international calls totally free or at Raketu’s ultra-low cost VoIP calling rates. Additionally, users can send SMS Text Messages globally, and send email all from within the Raketu iPhone Application.

Raketu’s iPhone Application Features

Raketu’s new iPhone Application is entirely web-based and does not require consumers to download any software. Apple iPhone and iPod Touch users can sign up and access the service via their iPhone or iPod Touch web browser at iphone.raketu.com. Using Raketu’s iPhone application users can:

Call Internationally For Free Or At Raketu’s Ultra-Low Cost VoIP Calling Rates -- Raketu offers the lowest VoIP calling rates internationally period. Raketu users who sign up and make a payment of USD 9.95, USD 24.95 or USD 49.95 to their Raketu account are eligible for up to 1200 free calling minutes per month towards iPhone initiated phone-to-phone calls.

Send SMS Text Messages Globally – Raketu’s iPhone Application allows users to send SMS Text Messages globally at the lowest international text rates available.

Send Email – Simply type in the destination email address, enter your message and click send.

SunRise VoIP Service Still Charging it's Old BlueSky Customers?

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 20:38:07 GMT

Yet another reason to steer clear of Sun Rise Phone VoIP service, which appears more and more to be a spin off of old VoIP Provider BlueSky Phone. I'd previously tried to bring this to every one's attention in my "BlueSky Phone Renamed to SunRise Phone STAY Away" post. A comment yesterday by cblankin brought this back to my attention and I'd like to thank him for doing so.

The comment reads: "I went on to sunrisephone.com and was able to use my old login and password. I was able to check my account and it showed they had been charging my credit card for the last 4 months. I called their contact number and got hold of some type answering service and explain I would sue them if the didn't close my account. He seem surprised that somebody and figured out bluesky phone had become sunshine phone.com. (think he meant sunrise phone) Today I am no longer able to log onto their web site and use my old login and password. I recommend you log and check for yourselves."

Some might remember BlueSky phone for simply closing it's doors and leaving it's customers in the dark without notice. It now appears that BlueSky Phone is still charging customers just under a new name! I'm not sure how this would appear on a credit card bill as either being billed from BlueSky Phone or SunRise Phone service. I'd suggest if you were a previous customer of either service to check your bills to make sure you aren't still being taken to the cleaners.

I'd also like to point out that sunrise phone attempted to contact me about possibly advertising here on VoIP Monitor. I never responded to either of their emails because of how they treated customers and I wouldn't want anything to do with promoting a wolf in sheeps clothes.

You can find more user comments here on BlueSky Phone VoIP provider

Keep Your VoIP Phone Number with Phone Number Bank

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 19:13:54 GMT

RNK has expedited expansion of its recently launched Phone Number Bank service into 80 additional markets nationwide. Phone Number Bank is a solution that enables consumers to keep or “bank” their phone numbers for as long as they want. In response to questions about how consumers can maintain more ownership of their phone numbers, which prior to PNB were never really “their” numbers, Richard Koch, President and CEO of RNK Communications, states, “Until now, your phone number never really belonged to you. It was part of the phone network and was just a routing mechanism to make your land line or cell phone ring when someone called what they believed to be “your” number.

Koch continued, “Times have changed and people have changed. The average American moves more than ten times in his life, often having to change his number with each move. Phone Number Bank is similar to a bank in that RNK Communications is a regulated telephone company and will safely store a consumer’s number. People today typically have too many phone numbers and pay for lines associated with those numbers. It is the phone number that’s often valuable and not the associated lines for which a consumer is paying, on average, over $50 per month. Phone Number Bank allows these individuals to “bank” their phone numbers and forward calls coming into those multiple numbers to a single phone,” Koch said. The convenience afforded by the service was evident to a PNB customer who told Koch that when she moved she could simply tell her family and friends to reach her at the same telephone number.

Phone Number Bank customers are not only able to quickly and easily sign up for service through the www.phonenumberbank.com, but they can also check the status of their orders and identify where they want incoming calls forwarded (e.g., cell phone, landline, VoIP phone, etc.), changing that “forward to” number online at any time. Customers not electing to forward calls to another phone receive calls to a voicemail box, and can retrieve voicemail audio files online.

RNK’s decision to expedite its nationwide launch plans was based, in part, on the sudden loss of service experienced by over two hundred thousand customers of SunRocket, a VoIP provider that shut its doors with little notice. With approximately 80% of recent PNB inquiries originating from SunRocket customers, RNK recognized the need to answer the call of consumers who need a safe place to which they can move and manage their telephone numbers. With PNB, SunRocket and other VoIP customers can experience the truly unique benefit of never losing control of their numbers, opting to bank them, move them, forward calls through them – whatever these customers want to do with their numbers is now possible.

"SunRocket’s sudden demise is a harsh reminder of the potential vulnerability facing VoIP customers, as we are all operating in an emerging market in which governing rules and regulations are still being defined,” said Koch. “There remain important distinctions between VoIP and traditional telephone service, including notice requirements prior to loss of service – often not mandated for VoIP providers. As a fully regulated telephone company, which offers both PSTN and VoIP service, RNK is in the unique position to offer a truly secure option for VoIP and traditional telephone subscribers to keep their telephone numbers for as long as they like. With PNB, your phone number belongs to you, and not the company providing the phone line.”

Like with SunRocket customers, PNB similarly would have been useful to a group of GrandCentral Communications, Inc. customers who were recently notified by the company that the phone numbers these customers were told they would have for as long as they liked, were being changed. If these GrandCentral customers and SunRocket customers had “banked” their numbers with PNB, they need not have been in the position of losing them.

For additional information regarding RNK’s Phone Number Bank, please visit: www.phonenumberbank.com

To VOIP or Not to VOIP

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 18:13:37 GMT

VOIP or Voice over Internet Protocol is plausibly one of the most radical advances in the telecom industry. It permits you to speak to another person on the other side of the world by employing a digital network connection precisely the same way that you get e-mail or surf internet sites. Due to the fact that your voice is changed into a digital signal, it can be transmitted around the block, on the other side of the country, or around the world for exactly the same price. For VOIP telephone calls, the idea of long distance does not exist. A single basic benefit is its low-price. If you have a fast Internet connection (DSL or cable), you can make computer-to-computer telephone calls anyplace on the globe FREE. Computer-to-phone telephone calls normally have a fee, but are usually still less expensive than typical telephone service. Perks like call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, caller ID and 3way-calling, are packaged with VOIP telephone service at no additional fee. At the same time you are speaking on the telephone, you can transmit graphics and documents.

VOIP telephoning plans are available in two types; bulk rate pricing and unlimited calling. Bulk rate pricing permits you to receive a monthly ration of minutes to telephone anyone you desire (similar to your cellular telephone ). If you exceed your monthly limit you will receive overage fees. Unlimited calling is precisely the way it is meant- you have no cap on the number of telephone calls you can dial. Limitless telephoning packages start at $35 a month depending on the VOIP service supplier and the extra perks included with your plan. Unless you are making many telephone calls or the limitless telephoning plan is very cheap, bulk rate pricing is normally a more beneficial choice.

Like cellular telephones, VOIP companies permit you to “port” or bring your existing phone number with you into their company. This is very handy since you will not need to advise your friends and family that you have changed your telephone number. Presently there is no law that VOIP suppliers must permit you to take your number with you if you are not satisfied or wish to switch companies. A few of them will, others will bill you an extra charge, and some will refuse to cooperate with your wish. Make sure, then, to take a look at this prior to putting your signature on any contracts.

Another benefit is its flexibility. You can make and get telephone calls as long as you have access to a broadband connection by just logging in to your VOIP account. Because of this factor, using VOIP is as easy as sending e-mail. While you are vacationing, you just take a headset or Internet phone with you; then you can speak to family or colleagues virtually for free.

Phone-to-phone VOIP is also portable. VOIP telephones are pocket-sized and light enough to take anyplace. Once you contract with a VOIP company , the Internet phone or adapter employed by that company is given a unique identification number. This 'phone number' stays valid, even if your VOIP company is in New York and you're connected to the Internet in Tokyo. While connected to a broadband connection, anyplace on the planet, you can make and receive telephone calls just like you were sitting in your own living room .

There are a few bugs that still make a negative impression with VOIP being more popular with the public. Lack of uninterrupted telephone service during power failures and problems with 911 emergency calling make up the 2 largest stumbling blocks.

Traditional telephone service keeps going due to the electric current running through the phone line at the time of a blackout. This is not possible with VOIP telephones. At the same time that the electricity fails, there goes VOIP service. Battery backups and electric generators that furnish power are the present-day answers to this dilemna.

A huge headache involves emergency 911 telephone calls. VOIP services usually aren't useful in emergencies. Traditional telephone gear can trace the locations of telephone calls. Emergency calls are channeled to the closest call center where the operator can distinguish your location, in case you are unable to talk. With VOIP, at this time there is no way to figure out the location from which Internet calls are coming. There is an emerging standard called e911 however, which is trying to resolve this restriction.

VOIP also has voice quality and reliability issues. Data sent through the Internet normally reaches its destination scrambled. E-mail and text files can be reassembled in the proper order when it arrives. Voice data also comes in scrambled, but it's more difficult due to the real-time nature of VOIP. Many data bundles may have to be unloaded when they don't make it in time, in order to make voice connections with the smallest time lag. This can create quick silences in the audio flow.

Space and speed of the connection specify the quantity of data dropped. Many networks get more traffic and therefore are more likely to create audio dropouts. One way to supply superior caliber audio connections is to produce dedicated data routes.

With the unbelievable amount of work committed to VOIP, these bad aspects will certainly be settled withinin the next 2 years. It is forecast that by then VOIP will be better accepted by consumers far and wide.

BlueSkyPhone Renamed SunRisePhone STAY Away

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 20:23:43 GMT

With all the hoopla this week about VoIP provider SunRocket closing its doors, a few of my readers pointed out that BlueSkyPhone has been renamed SunRisePhone (who I won't even bother linking to). Why is this important you ask? Well BlueSkyPhone closed its doors months ago as well and left many of its customers in the dark without any service or answers from head management. This brought many upset BlueSkyPhone customers to VoIP Monitor expressing their feelings about the company and the overall consensus is STAY AWAY from SunRisePhone. I want to thank the commenter's that brought this too my attention and keep up the good work.

VoIP Supply Offers Assessment and Evaluation Packages

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 17 May 2007 07:55:06 GMT

VoIP Supply is now offering a suite of cost effective VoIP network assessment packages designed to for those who do not have the in-house technical expertise to design and purchase their own IP PBX system, create technical drawings with documentation, analyze their current data and voice networks, as well as purchase the required hardware, software and telecommunications service components for their VoIP deployment.

The VoIP Supply VoIP network assessment and evaluation packages offer a complete and comprehensive set of deliverables that gives businesses of all sizes the ability to make informed decisions about a potential migration to VoIP.

"Logically defining the internal (LAN) and external (WAN) requirements of VoIP is critical to success," stated Cory Andrews, Executive Vice President of VoIP Supply. "Our professional network assessment and consultation packages are geared toward the small to midsized business who is performing due diligence, in anticipation of purchasing an IP communications product or service. We can analyze your current network, identify potential issues, and eliminate the guesswork and negative performance issues commonly associated with VoIP due to lack of proper planning. We also take a close look at how your business functions day to day, and which IP communication platform best suits your needs in terms of functionality, budget and integration with existing systems or processes."

VoIP Supply's VoIP network assessment and evaluation packages include the following:

Initial telephone consultation with an IP Communications expert.
Discussion to determine your goals and basic communications needs.
Discussion of features that fit your needs/requirements and additional features available to you.
Technical drawing, in flow chart format, detailing the components of your proposed solution and how they interconnect.
Details to complement the technical drawing, explaining each hardware, software and service element.
Discussion and explanation of critical concepts including QoS (Quality of Service), remote user/office setup and integration and PBX dialplan setup (Call routing PSTN and SIP/VOIP).
Recommendations for both PSTN (Analog POTS, T1/PRI) connectivity, data (DSL, Cable, Fiber, t1/PRI) connectivity, as well as SIP Based VoIP service providers (ITSP).
Complete quotation for hardware, software, service and accessories.
Location or a local or national company to assist in the installation of your hardware and software, including network components.
Pricing discounts on hardware, configuration and support of your installation.

The VoIP network assessment and evaluation packages range in price, from $149.99 for a one to four user small office, to $1999.99 for a large business with 101 to 250 users and come with a 50% package cost reimbursement if the solution components are purchased through VoIP Supply.

For additional information on VoIP Supply please contact Garrett Smith at 716.250.3408.

Top-Rated VoIP Service Providers by VoipReview.org

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 14 May 2007 21:29:18 GMT

VoipReview.org announces the top ten VoIP phone service providers as rated by actual customers. According to the Web site, the top-rated VoIP providers are: BroadVoice, Cordia, JoiPhone, Lingo, Sunrocket, VelocityTel, ViaTalk, Voip.com, VoIP Your Life and Vonics Digital. VoipReview.org, which features more than 4,000 user VoIP reviews on 163 VoIP providers, based the list on the highest-rated providers meeting a required minimum number of reviews.

"The user ratings and reviews are among the most popular features on our Web site. People rely on these VoIP reviews to get a true perspective on the quality and service each provider offers," said Eric Laughlin, chief executive officer of VoipReview.org. "The reviews are an excellent tool for newcomers to the world of VoIP who are looking for basic information as well as long-time users who might be looking to switch VoIP providers. Regardless of what stage of the purchasing process consumers are in, they can look to fellow shoppers to help find the VoIP provider that best meets their needs."

Visitors to www.VoipReview.org can click on the "VoIP Providers Reviews" link to access more than 4,000 reviews posted by VoIP consumers. In addition to reviews, consumers and businesses alike can visit the site to get critical information about VoIP services, including: the basics of VoIP technology, key benefits of using VoIP, required equipment, and answers to dozens of the most frequently asked questions about VoIP. Site visitors can also read expert articles, post questions for other users, and click through to VoIP provider Web sites to order service.

More than 4.6 million consumers have visited VoipReview.org to gather information and purchase VoIP services from the industry's top providers. VoipReview.org features an interactive online search tool which helps shoppers find the best residential and business VoIP service based on price, features, local availability, and user ratings and reviews. For more information, visit www.VoipReview.org.

Keep up the great work VoipReview.org!

VoIP Taxpayers Eligible for New Telephone Credit

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 18:13:28 GMT

Here is a press release pertaining to the previous subject on the Federal Telephone Excise Tax Credit. I first talked about it in my "VoIPMonitor's VoIP News Roundup Yehaw" so here's some additional information provided by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service to assist you in getting your refund.

Jackson Hewitt Tax Service alerts taxpayers to a new credit available for the 2006 tax year - the Federal Telephone Excise Tax Credit. Through this credit, taxpayers who have paid federal excise taxes on long-distance or bundled services through a landline, cell phone, fax and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) over the past three years will be able to claim a refund of those taxes paid. This credit is only available for the 2006 tax year.

"Through this new credit, any person or business that paid this tax for long distance calls made between February 28, 2003 and August 1, 2006 is eligible," said Mark Steber, Vice President of Tax Resources, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc. "The IRS is predicting that approximately 146 million taxpayers will be able to claim this refund, which includes about 136 million individuals and couples filing tax returns as well as an estimated 10 million who will file Form 1040EZ-T only."*

Taxpayers have two choices when claiming this credit. If they saved their telephone bills for the past 41-months, they can tally the three-percent tax imposed on long distance and bundled service. A faster, more convenient way is to deduct the standard refund amount based on the number of exemptions claimed on a return. Individual taxpayers may claim from $30 for one exemption to a maximum of $60 for four exemptions. For example: For someone with three exemptions (married filing jointly with one dependent), the amount of the refund is $50.

Steber notes that taxpayers should be aware that the refund will be reflected as a credit on their 2006 tax return. The credit will either increase the amount of refund or reduce the amount of tax owed.

For questions on the phone refund or any other tax issues, taxpayers are encouraged to visit the Jackson Hewitt website for information, tips, and advice on getting started, including a "What to Bring to Your Tax Preparer" checklist.

Make Free Calls with Web-based VoIP Product Gizmo Call

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 17:18:20 GMT

SIPphone the makers of Gizmo Project, announced the launch of its web-based VoIP product Gizmo Call, located at gizmocall.com. Gizmo Call lets people call any type of landline or mobile, anywhere in the world, from any web browser, for free. No traditional software download and installation is required, just a simple, lightweight Adobe Flash plug-in that works with a web browser. No registration or account setup is required.

Gizmo Call makes it easier than ever to make free long distance calls. It’s an online service that people can use from any web browser. Gizmo Call is a fantastic solution for users calling from internet cafés, kiosks, traveling laptops, as well as from home and work computers. It’s possible to even make calls simply by typing a number into a field in a browser. Users can use urls like: http://gizmocall.com/18005551212.

Gizmo Call offers unprecedented free calling worldwide. Users get five minutes of calling per day to just about any phone number and can double that if they register with an email address. All users can make unlimited free calls to anyone using Gizmo Project, Windows Live Messenger, GoogleTalk, or any SIP device, including Nokia’s N800 internet tablet and N80 wi-fi mobile phones. If they want to make more calls, they can purchase Call Out minutes in $10 dollar increments.

Registered and paid users receive several added benefits. A customizable CallerID allows users to decide whether calls appear to initiate from a mobile or office phone. An interactive Call History lets users make calls with one-click. Registered and paid users can also create a personalized "Call Me" button that can be added to email signatures, blogs, or websites, providing a click-to-call option for friends, family, co-workers or customers.

Gizmo Call is available immediately for Windows and Macintosh operating systems. Linux OS support is expected within 30 days. Gizmo Call works with Internet Explorer, Opera, Firefox, and Safari browsers and requires Adobe Flash 9 to be installed on the computer. Gizmo Call is available now at gizmocall.com to the worldwide user population.

VoIP Users Getting More as VoIP Calling Features Increase

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 18:41:20 GMT

The average number of calling features is increasing for VoIP phone service plans while monthly prices remain steady, according to VoipReview.org, the first and most complete comparison shopping and information source for broadband phone service. While the average number of features per calling plan increased from 23 in April to nearly 27 in November, the average price of an unlimited long distance VoIP home plan remained consistent at approximately $25 per month, according to online search data collected from April 1 through November 30, 2006.

"The VoIP industry has steadily improved product offerings over the past year, which means VoIP buyers continue to get more for their money," said Eric Laughlin, chief executive officer of VoipReview.org. "As VoIP providers compete for their share of the marketplace, you'll see more and more calling features offered standard, with prices staying generally the same. In addition to the cost savings over traditional analog phone lines, free calling features are another key reason why more people are switching to VoIP."

Based on VoipReview.org's online search data, the average number of calling features included in VoIP provider plans ranging from $1 to $30 per month has steadily increased from 23.2 in April to 26.71 in November 2006. Features included in typical VoIP calling plans include caller ID, voice mail, number portability, call waiting and 911. VoipReview.org search data also revealed that the average price of unlimited long distance home plans with 911 has remained somewhat consistent with pricing at $25.46 per month in April and $25.18 per month in November 2006.

Visitors to VoipReview.org can access reliable, independent information about VoIP technology and how it works, the benefits of VoIP services, what equipment they will need, how calls are placed and received, along with answers to dozens of the most frequently asked questions about VoIP. Visitors can also post questions for other users, read actual user reviews, search and compare plans in their area, and click through to VoIP service providers' Web sites to order service.

Skype Worm Overrated says Websense

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 19:14:45 GMT

Malware spreading over the Skype network Tuesday raised flags across the internet. Websense has since posted a reclassification of the threat as a Trojan horse and its overall impact is declining.

Websense was among the first to post an alert about a possible Skype worm. However, after talking with the Skype security team, which is based in Estonia, Hubbard said he had reclassified the threat as a Trojan horse. "A user with Skype will get a message to download a program from a URL included in a chat message," says Hubbard. "If they click on that, a program runs in the background, then injects itself into the Explorer process. It looks like the Trojan is designed to grab forms and passwords from the browser."

"This is either spreading very slowly, and only regionally, or it's dead by now," Hubbard says.

ViaTalk Delivers Christmas Present Early

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 15:37:03 GMT

ViaTalk is putting a little something extra under the Christmas Tree this year. As part of a special holiday promotion, new ViaTalk customers can get a free year of telephone service when they pay for the first year of service in advance.

“It seems too good to be true, but as a thank you to our new customers this holiday season we are giving away two years of our service for the price of one,” said Brendan Brader, CEO. “This is sure to be one of the best bargains this holiday season -- better phone service, unlimited long distance to make all your holiday calls, and at a fraction of the cost of what you are paying now.”

ViaTalk offers VoIP telephony service to business and residential customers. The company was launched in 2005 by Brendan Brader, CEO of HostRocket, a successful web hosting company. Because of his extensive experience in internet services, ViaTalk has quickly become a top national provider of broadband phone service and has customers in 2,200 markets in all 50 States.

“ViaTalk is quickly becoming a top VoIP company because we provide high quality service at the most competitive prices in the industry,” added Brader.

The offer is for a limited time, open to new customers who have not had ViaTalk within the past 60 days, and not valid in combination with other offers. All ViaTalk lines are subject to a monthly FCC mandated E-911 fee as well as a monthly Regulatory Recovery Fee.

So You Want a VoIP Service? New 28-Page Booklet

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 06:16:47 GMT

Communications Alliance has published the ‘So you want a VoIP service?’ Customer Booklet designed to assist consumers and small businesses who are considering a VoIP service for their home or office.

The 28-page booklet was developed by Communications Alliance with substantial input from industry representatives on its VoIP Working Group and was launched at the organisation’s third annual VoIP Forum in Sydney.

The booklet takes readers through “The seven steps to VoIP” under the following chapter headings:

Why do you want a VoIP phone service?
Things to consider
Ensuring that your broadband is up to it
Deciding on a VoIP service provider
Connecting it all up
Using your VoIP service
Customer service and your rights

The media release of the launch of the ‘So you want a VoIP service?’ Customer Booklet can be found here.

Netgear's Skype Wi-Fi Phone Review

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 05:34:55 GMT

Great review by Arik Hesseldahl over at BusinessWeek.com entitled, "Netgear's Phone in the Rough." I enjoyed reading his article because, it's nice to hear personal opinion about the latest VoIP gadgets on the market.

His review of the NETGEAR SPH101 Skype Wi-Fi phone is a good one. He begins with his skepticism of internet calling services and asks himself, "What exactly, aside from cost, is so wrong with either conventional land-line phones or wireless phones that we really need a third option—especially one that typically has to go through a personal computer." However after watching the popularity of Skype and The Gizmo Project take off he seems to warm to the idea of VoIP. Throughout the article he talks about the Netgear's phone complex setup, password bugs, and sound quality from both stateside to dialing Hong Kong.

You'll just have to read his article to see for yourself.

First Social Networking Site With Free Voice Enabled Chat Rooms

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 22:50:56 GMT

As new technology continues to disrupt legacy platforms in all industries, Speecho has just beta launched the newest in Web 2.0 social networking websites by providing its registered members free voice telephony services on a global scale. In addition to all the functionality we have become accustomed to with MySpace, YouTube, and others, such as personalized profiles, blogging, photo and video uploading, Speecho.com has extended the social network with the addition of proprietary voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) services not even available through Vonage or Skype. Speecho.com is an open, unrestricted online community that allows and encourages members to meet new friends and invite and reconnect with friends they invite into the service. Members can talk for free with anyone, anywhere, in a public voice chat, party-line session, or in a totally private room.

Rather than list categories of interest, Speecho has done something different by building a user friendly thirty-six room house, the Speecho mansion. Members can enter the Lobby for concierge help in setting up their profiles, learn how to quickly use the patented Click2Talk free voice application, take the Elevator for some speed networking, enter the 18+ Bar for the only 24/7 happy hour on the web, and cruise through any of the many other rooms in which members have an interest. Want to talk about bands or music videos, go to the Music Room. Movies and TV, hang out in the Media Room. Golfers have the Club House, sports enthusiasts are in the Gym, there is a Playground for travel and recreation, a Library for sharing research or homework with classmates, a Home Office for the latest in business and technology, even a Kidz Room for pre-teens. And much more, including a spooky Basement, a Rooftop for astrology and horoscopes, and, of course, no house would be complete without the Bedroom.

The site is the brainchild of a group of investors and entrepreneur Elliot Krasnow. "I have been fortunate to have a brilliant team helping bring Speecho.com to life," stated Mr. Krasnow.

Adding this new free talk dimension to social networking expands the opportunities of community and communications. "It may not be something one thinks about, but every person belongs to a speech community, a group of people who speak the same language," stated Krasnow.

With many people speaking more than one language, the ability for worldwide users to upload photos and videos into their profiles, go into the Foreign Language Room, as just one example, and speak in their native dialect, all for free, offers considerable value to the members, and highly targeted real estate for advertisers. According to a November, 2006, report by Hitwise, average session time per visit to social networking sites is almost three times that of other websites.

The coveted 18-24 demographic, as well as the 25-49, and 50+ age group, all have a place to connect, chat and talk throughout the Speecho community. There is a gamers only Play Room, invitation only, pre-booked Conference Rooms, as well as the Attic, a place to reminisce on past events. Speecho has rooms for everyone, be it the Bathroom for beauty, the Kitchen for sharing recipes, a Dining Room that does not require reservations, or the War Room for strategic, military dialogue, decisions, and solutions. And more.

"Although there are many complex technologies interfacing on Speecho.com, we have designed a user friendly and fun experience for our members," said Krasnow. "I'm already receiving thank you messages from parents who, through Speecho, have found a way to drastically cut down on their kids' telephone bills."

Headquartered in Aventura, Florida, Speecho is a new way to connect with friends via Internet talk (VoIP). Free earbuds and mics are available for a limited time to an unspecified number of initial member signups. The service is safe and secure and the application can be downloaded onto any PC. For more information, visit http://www.speecho.com or email admin@speecho.com.

Call Home Free for the Holidays

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 21:03:48 GMT

Raketu announced their Call Home Free For The Holidays promotion. Consumers will be able to call to their families and friends free to locations in over 40 countries around the world, regardless of where calls originate, using Raketu’s PC based "RakOut" dialout voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) services.

“When you can’t get home for the holidays, it’s nice to be able to speak to friends and family,” said Greg Parker, President of Raketu Inc. “We want to make it possible for everyone to call home this holiday season, and encourage them no matter where they are, or where they are calling to, to call free with our Call Home Free For The Holidays promotion.”

Raketu runs over any Internet connection from broadband to dial-up service. Anyone with Internet access, a Windows PC, and a headset can start using Raketu immediately. Raketu uses a unique peer-to-peer (p2p) technology, which allows the highest quality VoIP calling and highest call-completion in the industry. Unlike similar p2p communications providers, Raketu does not use Supernodes, so does not have the security risk and performance problems associated with other services.

Free calling locations are available now in over forty countries. The Call Home Free For The Holidays promotion is available to subscribers of Raketu’s “RakOut” dial-out VoIP service. “RakOut” dial-out service has no monthly fees, but requires that subscribers prepay for dial-out minutes not covered under the free promotion. See www.Raketu.com for a complete list of free calling countries/zones.

Understanding that Not All VoIP is Created Equal

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 11 Dec 2006 22:14:21 GMT

I came across this nice article today by Brett Markham, "Not all VoIP is created equal". I believe it could help VoIP users understand why their quality of service could be lacking.

"Every week BELD Broadband’s help desk receives calls from broadband Internet subscribers who use third-party Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services such as Vonage and SunRocket. These calls are usually complaints about call quality. The reason we receive such calls explains both the strength and weakness of these services."

"VoIP is a protocol that handles dialing functions and translates analog voice signals into packets of data similar to music mp3s, though of lower fidelity. The packets of data are then routed across one or more networks in order to terminate in a telephone switch that connects the caller with the phone number being dialed."

Free VoIP Handbook

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 05 Dec 2006 19:44:04 GMT

"The idea of using the Internet as an alternative to the telephone network is not new, but the software that makes it possible certainly is revolutionary."

These are the thoughts of the authors of a new VoIP handbook entitled, 'VoIP4D Primer - Building Voice Infrastructure in Developing Regions' released yesterday.

The book's primary target are users in the developing world, but it has enough detail and hands-on information to be useful to a broad range of users new to voice over ip (VoIP) software.

The free guide is available in four major languages and is an effort to examine the use of telephony over the internet in developing regions.

"The 40-page guide targets both technical and non-technical readers. The first part presents the essentials of telephony over the Internet. For those interested in the more technical details, hands-on guidelines and configuration files are included in the second part. The examples provide essential background to build your own low-cost telephony system."

"The last part demonstrates three realistic scenarios of how VoIP can be deployed in rural communities in developing regions. The scenarios cover how to build a local telephony system and how to connect it to other voice networks. Through these scenarios, you will learn how your own local VoIP network, built with inexpensive equipment, can link to the traditional telephony network and other voice networks anywhere on the Internet."

VoIP-4D Primer - Building Voice Infrastructure in Developing Regions, is written by IT +46, a Swedish consultancy company focusing on innovative usage of IT technology in the developing world.

The guide is licensed under the Creative Commons Non-commercial Share-Alike license. It is available in English, French, Spanish and Arabic. Free direct PDF downloads are available at http://www.it46.se/downloads/voip4d/

On4 Wants to Stuff Your Stocking with $1000

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 01 Dec 2006 10:12:13 GMT

On4 has launched a free prize draw following a poll of its customer base. On4 which is a Desktop technology delivering free VOIP, video and audio messaging, SMS and regular phone calls at low rates, chat and a comprehensive range of other services asks it's customers for ideas. Overwhelmingly they all wanted fun and intrigue, and of course discounts or money back schemes.

On4 is built using SIP, the open, global internet telephony standard and to use the system everyone has to have an identity. On4 doesn't make people get a new phone number and the system is free to use for anyone. Anyone signing up to On4 who provides their mobile phone number will receive a text message with their free draw number, and all they have to do is check to see of their number has been selected and displayed on the News Tab of the ON4 desktop. If their number is displayed they have to claim their prize that day. If they don't claim they don't win. Prizes will change frequently and include free CD vouchers, games consoles and cash, up to $1000. There are no charges whatsoever, and anyone anywhere has a chance to win. The only rule is that you have to claim on the day and upload your photograph, so that the On4 world can see the happy winner. If they don't have a mobile phone, ON4 has also hidden a unique draw number on every On4 desktop, and if a customer can't find it, all he has to do is call the operator for help.

The last time that On4 asked it's customers for feedback it led to the creation of Hi. Many people who use On4 also take advantage of the free Hi link which can be embedded in My Space or EBay page and provides a free VoIP call back to the ON4 desktop. Even if the On4 desktop is turned off, the free voicemail system allows messages to be left, and calls to be returned at a later date.

On4 is owned and operated by the Voice Commerce Group, whose leading edge Engage platform supports a range of Telephony, Multimedia and interactive advertising solutions.

TúYo Mobile Launches New Holiday Promotion

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 20:22:00 GMT

IDT’s TúYo Mobile announced the launch of a new holiday season promotion. Starting Friday, November 24, 2006 and ending Sunday, January 31, 2007, TúYo Mobile will add five dollars of free talk time to new customer account balances once each week with the purchase and use of a new phone. Customers can talk up to 490 minutes for free over the ten-week holiday program. Additionally, customers can choose to apply their free five-dollar credit towards downloading content. TúYo Mobile is IDT Telecom’s prepaid wireless service designed to meet the mobile calling needs of U.S. Hispanics. IDT Telecom is a subsidiary of IDT Corporation an international telecommunications and technology company.

“Reaching out to family and friends can become very expensive as we tend to make more calls during the holiday season,” said Louis Ferraro, General Manager of TúYo Mobile. “That’s why now is the best time to become a TúYo Mobile customer to take advantage of the great savings.”

New customers will receive the five-dollar credit once they exceed five dollars of usage for each week during the ten-week promotional period. A free instant text message notification will be delivered to participating handsets as soon as each weekly bonus is applied.

TúYo Mobile provides many features and services that are important to Hispanic consumers, including direct international dialing, low rates to Latin America, state-of-the-art handsets, a fully bilingual customer experience, and country specific alerts featuring breaking regional news, Hispanic celebrity gossip, sports, politics and horoscopes. Also, TúYo Mobile features a large selection of ring tones that span many genres including Reggaetón, Bachata, Salsa, Corrido, Cumbia, Mariachi, Merengue, Tejano, Grupero, Hip Hop and Pop/Rock Alternative. Additionally, TúYo Mobile includes a unique calling card feature allowing international calling from any phone using a TúYo Mobile account balance.

TúYo Mobile recently launched services in Los Angeles and is now available in most major Hispanic markets in the US. TúYo Mobile products are currently available at hundreds of locations throughout the U.S. Customers can also sign up for TúYo Mobile at www.tuyo.com or through Customer Care at 877-IDT-TUYO (877-438-8896).

Recently, TúYo Mobile signed a distribution agreement with SAM’S CLUB, a subsidiary of Wal-Mart Corp. TúYo Mobile phones are now available in select SAM’S CLUB stores in Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Nevada, and Texas. Customers who purchase phones at SAM’S CLUB during the promotional period must call TúYo Mobile Customer Care to register for the program.

Look Up Unlisted Numbers and Cell Phones

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 28 Nov 2006 21:56:16 GMT

Finding names to unlisted phone numbers and even cell phone numbers just got easier. A1PeopleSearch.com now offers free reverse phone number look up searches which include a free unlisted phone number search and a free reverse cell phone search. The reverse phone search system is much more than just another reverse telephone directory.

A1peoplesearch.com gives businesses and verified individual user's free access to name and address information on approximately 80% of all unlisted phone numbers as well as free access to names from 35% of all cell phone numbers.

The A1 People Search Free Reverse Telephone Directory has bridged a gateway for both companies and individuals that rely on current accurate phone records. By utilizing and employing a unique combination of software applications plus a dynamic network configuration A1peoplesearch.com enables operators, telemarketers, debt collectors, private investigators and even the general public access to this important information.

This proprietary first-class data querying technology allows users access to services on a real time basis. Real time information includes data from all the major Cellular Carriers, Telco Carriers, CLEC (Competitive Local Exchange Carrier), VoIP numbers and more. Each month millions of telephone records are added, deleted, appended and amended.

It is imperative that companies and individuals that rely on accurate data have real-time access to this type of information which is typically not available with an ordinary reverse telephone directory created from a flat file (updated quarterly or yearly).

Now both companies and verified individuals can obtain accurate reverse telephone directory information through A1PeopleSearch.com. The types of free reverse phone numbers available include:

Free unlisted phone number search (approximately 80% of unlisted phone numbers)
Free cell phone numbers reverse lookup (approximately 35% of all cell phone numbers)
Free reverse fax number lookup
Free VOIP reverse phone number lookup

For additional information on the free unlisted phone number search or to try the service yourself at no cost please visit http://www.a1peoplesearch.com.

$200 Gift Card for Vonage In-Store Activation

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 27 Nov 2006 19:21:20 GMT

Vonage VoIP Service In-Store Activation at Circuit City Stores.

Customers will now be offered an instant $200 gift card to use toward any in-store purchase when they activate Vonage’s VoIP-based telephone service and sign a year-long contract. The store will also make devices from select Vonage hardware manufacturers available to customers free after a mail-in rebate.

“The holiday season just got merrier for Vonage subscribers,” said Vonage America, Inc.’s president Michael Tribolet in a statement. “New subscribers not only get Vonage’s flat rate, feature-rich telephone service so they can call all their friends and wish them happy holidays, but they can also pick up some great gifts at Circuit City.”

Ophone.net a Free International Calling Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 19:45:48 GMT

Ophone Communications, announced the introduction of free international calls through its new service, Ophone.net.

Ophone.net’s newly available service allows users to make unlimited calls to the United States, Canada, China, Germany, Taiwan, South Korea and more than 35 other countries by simply calling a U.S.-based number and entering a destination.

“This service is ideal for individuals who want to take advantage of unlimited calling plans through their existing cellular or home phone provider,” said Nick Grooms, Vice President of Ophone.net. “Unlike other firms which require contracts and promote their service using limited time offers commonly found in the international calling world, Ophone offers free international calls based on simple, proven business concepts.”

Ophone is able to provide free international calls using a business model similar to FreeConference.com which uses network access fees to provide the caller with free services, and 800-Free411 which sells ten-second spots to advertisers to offset providing a free service.

Ophone.net users are afforded the best of both the traditional and VoIP calling worlds, as they are able to take advantage of advances in communications technology while still utilizing their exiting home and cellular phones.

No signup is required to begin using Ophone.net’s free international calling service. New users simply need to call 712-945-0360 to access the automated dialing prompt. For additional information please visit our Web site, http://www.ophone.net.

RIT Launches VOIP/IP Telephony Courses

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 23:55:16 GMT

Polycom Inc., has donated state-of-the-art equipment to Rochester Institute of Technology's B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences. The equipment will be used in the curriculum for the college's course offering in real-time data and voice/video over Internet protocol (VOIP). The undergraduate courses will be offered to students pursuing various degrees in applied network and system administration, information technology, computer science, and software engineering.

"With the convergence of telephone, video and data networks, students will be expected to run telephone systems, then migrate them to converged voice and video IP-based solutions," says Bruce Hartpence, associate professor of networking, security, and systems administration in the Golisano College. "Polycom's market leading solutions will be used in our Telephony Integration Lab where students will learn about emerging rich media telecommunications technologies and methodologies."

Polycom donated two group VSX7000s and five desktop video application Polycom PVX systems with cameras to the Telephony Integration Lab at RIT. The VSX7000 provides full video conferencing capabilities flexibility and expandability with the option to add additional displays, microphones, speakers, ISDN network and modules. The Polycom PVX personal video conferencing application delivers business quality desktop video conferencing from the convenience of a PC.

Polycom is dedicated to providing students with the tools and information they need to be the leaders of the future," said Polycom's Global Education Market Director Russ Colbert. "After working with the market leading Polycom equipment through their college experience, students are fully prepared to continue working with the technology once they enter the workforce. This creates a win-win in that RIT students are attractive employees and businesses can select from knowledgeable students for new hires."