Look Ma, No Bell

So my transition from traditional phone line (aka POTS) is now complete. No longer dependent on the likes of Bell or Rogers, I and am using Chatham, ON based Teksavvy for both VoIP and Dry-loop DSL. I even ported my original phone number and waited the ceremonial five weeks. Internet has been incredibly reliable, and phone has been decent although sometimes exhibits VoIPish qualities, especially during big transfers. I never hear problems but the people I’m talking to sometimes do. I guess the provider knows where there bread is buttered.

Here are my suggestions for a reduced hiccup transition, which is a lot harder than it should be:

  1. Using your existing internet connection, pick a VoIP provider that will provide you with a new local number.
  2. Get VoIP hardware; either a VoIP adaptor or a SIP-capable phone and plug it into your router or DSL modem.
  3. Forward your traditional phone line to your new number.
  4. Use your new VoIP phone to place all outgoing calls.
    • Hiccup: the people you’re calling will see your new unknown number in their Call Display.
  5. Switch to a DSL provider that supports Dry-loop (aka Naked) DSL.
    • Hiccup: they will likely install a new line in a different room which means your phone and router must move with it.
  6. Thanks to phone number portability regulations, you should inform your VoIP provider that you would like to port an existing number.
  7. Wait minimum 5 weeks for the phone number transfer to take place. Your traditional phone service will be automatically cancelled when you remove the number.

Done!



About this entry

You’re currently reading “Look Ma, No Bell,” an entry on the blog of Ryan Feeley.

Published:
5.9.07 / 9pm
Category:
Telecom, Toronto