ISPs are Talking About Voice over IP

Read an article about Voice over IP (VoIP) recently? Now Jupitermedia is launching a space to talk about VoIP, the ISP-VOICEOVERIP list.

by Alex Goldman ISP-Planet Managing Editor [December 14, 2004]

If you've read one article about VoIP recently, you've probably read dozens. ISPs are looking to VoIP for a steady stream of cash, for a way to beat the phone company, and for a way to make customers happier.

But the latest magic fairy dust comes with a lot of baggage. With many questions being asked, many new ideas being tested in the fiery forge of the marketplace, Jupitermedia Corporation, parent company of this site and the ISP-lists, has decided to launch a brand new discussion list, the ISP-VOICEOVERIP list. It's free to join. Just click on the link above.

There are four main areas of uncertainty. Questions that have not yet been answered include:

Equipment: Which VoIP protocol works best? Which CPE is both affordable and reliable? This sort of discussion occurs on every one of the ISP-Lists.

Strategy: Should ISPs build their own service, run an affiliate program, or try something in between? How should ISPs sell VoIP? At ISP-Planet, we have some ideas (see Editorial: Selling VoIP) and look forward to hearing yours.

Politics: Will the bells and cable companies block competition again? Will VoIP be taxed? Is it legal abroad? At ISP-Planet, we're worried but interested (see VoIP Battleground in RBOC Monopoly War). The list will be a great place to exchange information about local, national, and international developments anywhere in the world.

Applications: At ISPCON, Jeff Pulver called on ISPs to use their imagination in creating innovative applications (see Pulver Says the Future is Purple). Who's actually doing it? List members are sure to discuss new and interesting ideas.

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