VoIP Options for Your Fiber Optic Network
With your new fiber optic network installed, replacing your landline with a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone is a savvy choice. VoIP uses your internet connection to handle calls, offering cost savings, flexibility, and modern features. Your fiber’s high speed and reliability make it perfect for this switch. Below, we’ll explain VoIP and highlight five great options—each with links to explore further.
What is VoIP?
VoIP turns your voice into data packets sent over the internet, bypassing traditional phone lines. It requires just 5-10 Mbps per call—your fiber optic network (likely 100 Mbps or more) can handle this effortlessly, ensuring clear calls. You can use an adapter with your existing phone, a VoIP-specific device, or an app, all powered by your fiber connection.
Top VoIP Options
1. Ooma
Why It’s Great: Ooma offers a simple, low-cost solution. Buy the Ooma Telo device ($80-$100), connect it to your fiber router, and pay only minimal taxes monthly (around $3-$5).
- Features: Unlimited US/Canada calls, voicemail, caller ID; optional Premier plan ($9.99/month) adds call blocking and mobile app access.
- Best For: A landline-like experience without recurring fees.
- Learn More: Ooma Home Phone
2. Vonage
Why It’s Great: Vonage is a trusted name with plans starting at $14.99/month (after promotions), blending home use with extra features.
- Features: Unlimited calling, mobile app, optional virtual numbers or international calling.
- Best For: Users wanting flexibility and app integration.
- Learn More: Vonage for Home
3. RingCentral
Why It’s Great: RingCentral starts at $20/month, delivering robust tools that suit tech-savvy home users or small offices.
- Features: Unlimited calls, video conferencing, messaging, integrations (e.g., Google Workspace).
- Best For: Future-proofing for home office needs.
- Learn More: RingCentral Small Business
4. Voiply
Why It’s Great: Voiply is affordable at $8.95/month, with no setup fees and a free device on annual plans.
- Features: Unlimited US/Canada calls, spam blocking, voicemail-to-email.
- Best For: Budget-conscious users seeking simplicity.
- Learn More: Voiply Residential VoIP
5. Google Voice
Why It’s Great: Google Voice is free for personal use (with a $20 one-time fee to port your number), running entirely through apps or a browser.
- Features: Free US calls/texts, voicemail transcription, call forwarding.
- Best For: Minimalists who don’t need hardware.
- Learn More: Google Voice About
Moving Your Phone Number
All these providers support porting your landline number. Pick one, keep your current service active during the switch, provide your account details (from your bill), and wait 5-20 days. Your fiber network ensures a smooth transition—test your number once it’s live, then cancel your old landline.
Why Choose VoIP?
Your fiber optic network’s speed and stability make VoIP a no-brainer—cheaper than a landline, with features like call blocking or mobile apps. Explore these options via the links above: Ooma for simplicity, Vonage for flexibility, RingCentral for power, Voiply for value, or Google Voice for free. Ready to cut the cord?