by Lisa Sousa

Created on: June 05, 2009   Last Updated: June 16, 2009

As with any service provider, it pays to shop around before you choose a company that specializes in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). With a multitude of new providers launching their services and touting their free calling plans, it can be downright confusing to determine which company is the right fit for you.

There are undoubtedly some great companies out there that are offering excellent service and tremendous savings for both consumers and businesses. However, there are others that make claims of free calls, but in actuality have lots of limitations on the type of VoIP services that they offer and the countries in which they provide coverage.

Fortunately, there are specific questions you can ask providers before you sign up, to get a good understanding of what they provide and what they don't so that you aren't surprised with a whopping long distance charge that you weren't expecting. Here's what you need to ask:

"Can I use your company's service to call traditional and mobile phones?"

Don't assume that all VoIP service providers let you make free PC-to-phone and PC-to-mobile phone calls. In fact, many limit free calls to only those that are PC-to-PC. Only well-established providers offer the full range of calling capabilities that enable you to dial without limitations to almost any phone with high quality digital service.

"Where can I call for free?"

One of the biggest benefits of using VoIP is having the ability to make free calls. Look for a provider that not only gives you free calling in the United States and Canada but also offers free calls to other countries. Whether you frequently call home to the U.K. or have clients in Taiwan, you should be able to take advantage of VoIP technology to call them without additional charges.

Keep in mind that most providers offer free calling to only certain countries and may charge for other global destinations. Try to find one that has free calling to where you most frequently call and competitive rates for other areas.

"What other services do you provide?"

Besides free calls, some VoIP providers also offer a variety of value-added services that can be especially beneficial for both businesses and individuals. These services include instant messaging with presence, multi-user text collaboration, and multi-user voice conferencing which lets you set up conference calls without having to make a prior reservation.

"How long have you been in business?"

This might be the most important question to ask potential VoIP service providers that you are considering. While there are many providers to choose from, those that have been around the longest typically have the highest quality service. They've taken the time to develop the robustness of their technology and have utilized the feedback from users to improve their products and services. These pioneers in VoIP also have the most extensive distribution networks and the highest quality voice communication service.

The answers to these questions will provide you with the insight you need to effectively choose a VoIP service provider that is right for you. You'll be glad that you did your homework once you sign up with a high quality provider and can begin to take advantage of this tremendous way to communicate with your friends, family, and colleagues.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Sousa.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.