What is a VoIP Adapter?

VoIP adapters come in various shapes and sizes and produced from a variety of manufacturers.

Voice over IP adapters, otherwise known as ATA adapters, allow you to plug in a standard telephone to the adapter, connect your high speed internet connection, connect the power and start making long distance phone calls. Basically you plug in you regular home phone in to a data network to send and receive phone calls. Various special VoIP ATA adapters feature-rich telephone service over your cable or DSL Internet connection.

Where do I get the VoIP adapter from?

Where I got my VoIP adapter from I can't tell you, but will show you a number of companies that offer free VoIP adapters plus great sign up offers to start using their service. In many cases there are no contracts or terms to commit to, so you be the judge.

Many VoIP service providers now provide adapters free of charge or you can purchase from a local retailers, shop and buy online, purchase from eBay or simply download free software. eBay is a great source for new and used phone adapters, but be cautious because some VoIP service providers will not let you connect used devices. Always check with the provider first before purchasing used VoIP equipment.

In most cases, the free adapter is already pre-configured with the service provider and there really is not much to do when you get the device in the mail. Simply connect and start using.

What does 'Unlocked' mean?

An unlocked voip adapter is one where you can completely control the use of the adapter. Check with your VoIP service provider first before purchasing an unlocked adapter to see if they will allow you to use these devices.

If you VoIP service provider allow un-locked devices, they will commonly post the configuration values on their website or support pages.