? A: That's an excellent question, we see often asked in VoIP forums. Generally, VoIP service providers encourage customers to use the power they provide. In most cases, the adapter is given free once you sign up for your service - and you are required to return later when your service is canceled. VoIP is all about simplifying your phone service, and that includes the fact that you do not need to buy additional equipment beyond a telephone and a modem or router with a broadband Internet connection for VoIP and running. Some people with advanced technical knowledge may choose to purchase and use their own VoIP compatible device. Using a service like BroadVoice VOIPo or with an adapter you already own is often referred to as "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD or).
Why should I use the VoIP adapter to me?
You will not receive technical support for your VoIP adapter. If you have problems immediately or months down the road, you want to be able to access technical support for your VoIP service provider. Most companies that allow their customers to use third-party adapters are warning that they will not provide technical support for devices that do not originate from them. If you're not particularly tech savvy or simply do not want to deal with the hassle of troubleshooting on your own with the manufacturer of your chosen device, it is worth taking into consideration.
So what companies will let me use my own VoIP adapter?
If you're comfortable with your technical abilities and want to move forward using your own equipment, then you are in luck. A number of VoIP services that we examine the offer of support in their residential plans for BYOD.
BroadVoice offers a special BYOD plan that works with a number of SIP-able devices. The plan is $ 5.95 / month and includes your choice of phone numbers, all the basic and advanced features of BroadVoice and outgoing 100 minutes in the United States or Canada. You also have the option to switch to one of their unlimited plans for no extra cost.
ViaTalk allows its residential service users BYOD option. The plan costs the same as their regular plans - $ 15.95 / month -. And includes all the features you get with regular plans and
Phone Power BYOD supports with all his plans. You can see a full list of compatible devices on the Phone Power website, and they promise quick setup and activation for users who choose to use their own VoIP adapter.
VOIPo Axvoice and VOIP.com all allow you to use your own adapter after you subscribe to their service. All you have to do is log into your account and follow the steps to register your device and receive the authentication required to get the service activated by your VoIP adapter. VOIP.com offers BYOD only to residential subscribers at present.
Although the use of your own VoIP adapter comes with the risk of encountering problems if you need technical support, it is a viable option that many providers welcome. If you want to know more about VoIP and what these services and others have to offer, check out our VoIP feedback page.