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The widening of quicker Internet access combined with the flexibility and reduced cost of calls using VoIP has made this emerging technology very attractive to consumers. Voice over IP is now one of the fastest growing applications on the Net with around four million VoIP users in the UK alone, not including business subscriptions.

The initial step that needs to be taken when debating whether to get an account is to look into the available VoIP providers and the selection of services they offer. Once the provider and service have been chosen the next stage is setting up your account. This is fairly easy but do be mindful that you should check your service offers a local number. Some services don’t cover every phone exchange in which case you are likely to be offered a number from the nearest exchange thats available.

Having a non-local number may not seem important when VoIP is used for outgoing calls, it will be a consideration to your family and friends when they make long distance (or national rate) calls to converse with you even though they may live in the next street. There are some VoIP services that only offer non-geographic numbers, using codes such as 0870, 0845 or 056. In the case of non-geographic numbers some limitations exist: Calls to 0870 and 0845 numbers are prohibited from most landline, mobile and VoIP providers’ all-inclusive call packages. In the case of 056 numbers, it is not possible to call them from outside the UK at present.

Thought should be given to making sure you still have a landline as a backup. The reason for this is that if there is a blackout you are likely to lose your internet connection - because the router and ADSL modem need power - and your VoIP access too, because the VoIP equipment needs to be connected to the mains. There are some types of VoIP equipment that offer a emergency option that will connect urgent calls, and all calls if there should be a power failure, to a landline. You should check this feature with your provider if you feel that you need to have this provision included in your service.

Some VoIP service providers offer services that allow you to pay for calls as you go while others offer a service that charges a single, all-inclusive fee. Plans offering unlimited local and national calls are also available for small businesses and for residential users. In the case of businesses additional features such as a free fax service are often included. There is a pricing option available to fit your needs.

Just contact the service provider of your choice and they will set up an account for you. The average person should be up and running with VoIP in about half an hour. Join the VoIP revolution!