Verizon sucks sometimes.

[bouncygryphon]

... and it's mostly this week.

If you've called my house and gotten a disconnect for our phone, it's because Verizon turned off BOTH phone lines instead of one.

The problem will allegedly be fixed by noon tomorrow.

Comments

[digitaleopard]

If you get a high speed internet connection, Skype offers free calling between Skype callers, and you can get a standard land line number and dial in/out of the system for a small fee. Just today they released a Skype client for the iPhone; as long as I'm using WiFi, and not the ATT network, I'm able to use the free skype system, which means fewer minutes on the landline.

I can't promise there won't be problems, but at least they'll be ~different~ problems.

[geekkitty]

Just be aware that you can't make emergency calls from Skype. Oh, but they don't have a high speed connection. :(

[digitaleopard]

You can make emergency calls, but the system lacks the ability to automatically pinpoint the source of the call. The best they can do is keep a database that correlates a number to an address and use it. The E911 problem was and is one of the most difficult and expensive problems for the VoIP providers.

I just talked to her about a speedy connection. They can get DSL from Verizon (Ew) or cable modem service from Cox cable (Ugh.)

[geekkitty]

Skype states on its web site:

Note: Skype itself is not a replacement for a traditional phone and can not be used for emergency calling.

and:

Can I call an emergency number (e.g. 112, 211, 999, and 911)?

No, you cannot use Skype to call any emergency services.

To me, the inability to dial and connect to 911 means that this is not an appropriate landline replacement. I understand the E911 problem, and it is one of the reasons why I can not recommend that a VoIP system be used to replace a landline or Cell line at this time.

I will mention that I do have a Skype phone number, as does my husband. We also have individual cell numbers, but no land line.