The Future is Calling

Voice Over IP: The New Landline

The other day, a customer stopped by to our Eastsound office and we were chatting about phone service. He recalled the days of four-digit phone numbers and party lines in the islands, not so long ago. We really have come a long way, especially in the last decade. Rock Island has been working hard to expand broadband access to islanders, and if you’ve already made the switch to fiber, you may want to consider upgrading your phone system to Voice Over IP (VOIP). More features, local support, and much lower cost.

What is VOIP?

Simply put, Voice Over Internet Protocol, or VOIP, is a home phone service that uses your internet connection instead of the traditional copper telephone infrastructure. Does that mean you have to place calls through your computer? Not at all. The user experience with VOIP is very similar to traditional landline services. You simply pick up the cordless handset and dial.

What about power outages?

One of the main reasons we hear for people sticking with their landline is that it works in a power outage. This is due to the copper infrastructure allowing for electricity to be delivered directly to your phone. If there’s backup power “upstream” of your phone line, you’ll have service when the lights go out.

With VOIP, you can still use your phone in a power outage; it’s just that the location of the backup power is different. Rock Island keeps our fiber optic network powered up during outages, and customers using an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) or generator backup for their router and VOIP phone enjoy not just phone service, but internet as well during power outages. (Is there anything cozier than a candlelit movie night during a winter outage?)

It’s always a good idea to keep your cell phone charged as well and remember that your UPS will last longer with fewer devices pulling power from it. Keep only necessary devices connected.

Enhanced 911 Services

VOIP utilizes a system called Enhanced 911 (E911). During the setup of your phone service, your address is verified to ensure it matches the 911 database and your location is automatically provided to emergency services when 911 is dialed from your number. Additionally, E911 offers the feature of sending an automatic notification to an email address of your choosing anytime 911 is called. This means that even if you cannot speak when you call 911, first responders will arrive and your emergency contact will be notified.

Comprehensive Features

Switching to VOIP doesn't mean losing the features you love. Enjoy all the functionalities you’re used to, such as caller ID, voicemail, and call forwarding, along with additional features like unlimited long distance to the US and Canada, and a mobile app that allows you to use your landline number anywhere, without giving out your cell phone number. Manage call forwarding, voicemail, and never miss a call wherever you are.

Cost Efficiency

One of the standout benefits of switching to VOIP is the significant cost savings. VOIP services typically cost about one-third or less than traditional landline services, allowing you to enjoy modern communication without breaking the bank.

Business Solutions

Businesses can greatly benefit from Rock Island’s VOIP service as well. We offer customized and scalable phone systems installed on-site by our local team. Keep your company connected with ease, even when your employees are on the go.

Ready to Switch?

Getting started Rock Island’s VOIP service is a breeze. Simply give us a call, and we’ll guide you through the process. It generally takes about a week to get your phone number moved over to our platform, and we’ll work with you to ensure that you have no lapse of service.

Make the smart choice today and experience the future of communication with Rock Island’s VOIP service.