If you are ready to go from a landline phone to VOIP, you are not alone.  More and more people are switching to VOIP service and getting rid of landlines in favor of utilizing their Internet service for phone service.  As long as you have a DSL or cable Internet connection, you can set up VOIP in your home.  Some Internet and cable companies offer VOIP service, and that should be your first stop to see what type of deal you can get for combining services.

Choosing a VOIP provider can be difficult if you are just getting started.  First, look at what you spend for telephone service and the benefits that come from it.  This gives you a ballpark figure you want to pay per month for the same services through a VOIP provider.  Write down the list of features you want with your VOIP service and determine what type of equipment you will need to sign up.  Most companies either rent the equipment you need, such as a modem and in some cases the telephones themselves, or you can opt to purchase them yourself before activating service.

Next, you want to come up with a list of three to five VOIP service providers.  This can include your own cable or Internet company, other companies such as Vonage or smaller VOIP providers in your own area.  Look at the features each service offers, the price and the equipment involved in making it work to see both how much it would cost monthly for the service as well as what it will cost out of pocket to make it work.

From there, you can narrow down with VOIP provider will work best for you.  Chances are if you already have cable or Internet service, the cheapest route would be to bundle your services to together through your provider if they offer VOIP services.  Otherwise, you may have to look for a separate provider that fits within your budget and provides the service you need to enjoy VOIP service in your home or office.