VoIP Regulations Kick In

But VoIP service providers have long known their regulatory day would come. The new regulations could have more of an immediate impact on businesses that use VoIP service providers for remote offices, home workers or international dialing. First, there will be a rate increase. Although the price tag should be only a few dollars per month per line, it will make it harder for VoIP providers to offer a cost advantage over conventional telco plans. Some providers may have to cut their base rates, and the resulting cut in profits could even send a few providers out of business.

It won't be easy for VoIP providers, and in the long run, those with telco experience will be best able to apply the new rules, because they've implemented 911 systems before. Emergency services shouldn't be optional.