Two Steps to VOIP

posted by Ashley Snowdon on 01 July 2010

Up until now you could use any VOIP provider (such as Skype) with BeyonDSL but as with any internet service it would affect your data allowance. Our new £6.99/month VOIP option sets up a separate, dedicated VOIP data channel that doesn’t affect data allowance. You could talk 24/7 without any effect on your connection; even if you're on a Value package and have exceeded your allowance.

For VOIP to work correctly and not affect your data allowance specific equipment and services that support the necessary protocols and have the correct configuration are required. We have tested specific equipment and services with this data channel and only support their use. Unfortunately it is not possible to support Skype at this time.

The Steps

If you are a new customer then simply make sure that when configuring your Package you select a subscription that includes VOIP (add £6.99/month) and then choose the appropriate hardware. If you are an existing customer make sure you are logged in and then configure a new Package with a subscription that includes VOIP (add £6.99/month) and then choose the appropriate hardware.

At this time we have two hardware choices: If you already have a router then our Phone Adapter will allow you to connect any normal telephone to the ethernet port of your router. If you do not have a router we have a wireless router that you can connect a telephone directly to.

2. Signup with Freespeech

We have partnered with Freespeech as our VOIP service provider. You need to visit their website and setup an account. They have a number of different options available but we suggest you start with either the basic Free account or the Pay As You Use Account.

Here's a summary of the main features:

Free Account

• Free 0844 number (for incoming calls)
• Free calls to other Freespeech & other VOIP networks that support SIP

Pay-As-You-Use Account

• Free 0844 number (for incoming & outgoing calls)
• Up to 300 bonus minutes each month
• Pay for whatever other calls you make at the ultra-competitive rates listed here.

Please note that there are a few options that are not compatible:

• PBX Connect (can't do simultaneous calls)
• Simultaneous calls on any package
• Extra VOIP Lines (only one VOIP call at a time is possible on the VOIP data channel)
• Call waiting / conferencing / 3-way calling (as this requires simultaneous calls)
• Freebox offer (ADSL unit, not fully satellite compatible)
• Other VOIP Equipment (you must use our preconfigured equipment only)