Q:  Currently, I get my messages from my answering machine. Can I still use my answering machine with Vonage?

A: Yes, you can still use your answering machine.  You don’t have to use the included Voice Mail service with your Vonage account.  Once you’ve signed up for Vonage, you’ll be given access to Vonage Online, your one-stop-shop for managing all your account and service details.  You can easily disable the Voice Mail feature from your Vonage Online account.  Then you can connect your answering machine, and start getting messages directly on your machine.

Q:  Will Vonage work if the power goes out?

A: Vonage requires a high speed internet connection to function, and if the power goes out your modem/router (which uses electricity) will stop working, thus interrupting Vonage service.  If you’d like to be uber-prepared, you can purchase a backup power supply.  This is commonly referred to as a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), and you can usually pick one up at your local electronics stores.

An easier way to deal with a potential power outage is to use Vonage’s Network Availability Number service.  This is a backup number that Vonage will automatically forward your calls to in case your internet connection is interrupted.  If you have a mobile phone, you can have your calls forwarded to it and you won’t have to worry about missing a call.  You can set up your Network Availability Number in your Vonage Online account, which is an included feature for Vonage customers.

Q:  How does Vonage work with existing equipment?  Do I have an IP termination box that then does an conversion to my existing analog cordless phones, or do I need special phones?

A: You don’t need any fancy equipment to use Vonage.  All you need is a high speed internet connection (DSL or Cable), a phone and the Vonage adapter.  Your existing “analog” cordless phones will work just fine with Vonage.  Vonage will send you the Vonage adapter, which comes with full color instructions and a Quick Start Guide.  It’s easy to setup, and should take about 10-15 minutes of your time.   To learn more about the Vonage setup, please see our section on how Vonage works.

Q:  Can I be guaranteed that there will be coverage to anywhere in the U.S. using Vonage.  For example, if I call from Buffalo, NY to Mazoula, Montanta, will the call go through?  Does Vonage have any areas that would be blacked out?

A: With Vonage, you should be able to make calls to working phone numbers throughout the U.S.  However, you will need a functioning high speed internet connection, the Vonage phone adapter and a phone to make these calls.

Vonage does not have a “black out” area for its phone services, but there are different calling plan options.  Vonage World lets you make unlimited free calls within the U.S. and to 60+ countries ( With 1 year agmt, plus surcharges, taxes & fees .  In-plan international calling excludes certain call types such as calls to cell phones depending on the destination.  Out of plan calls charges at Vonage’s international per minute rates.  See Vonage.com for details and list of destinations which is subject to change.  Unlimited calling subject to normal residential use.).

Q:  Will Vonage allow me to pick my new phone number?

A: You have 2 different options when signing up for Vonage.  The first option lets you transfer your existing phone number over to Vonage (where available).  The actual number transfer process may take up to 10 business days from the time you confirm your transfer request.  The second option allows you to choose a phone number from the area codes and numbers Vonage has available.

During the sign up process, Vonage will ask you which option you’d like.  If you want a new number, you need to indicate which state you’d like your phone number to be associated with.  Then the area codes for that state are then displayed.  Once you select an area code and city, the available numbers for that combination are shown on screen.  It’s very easy and intuitive, and you’ll be given several different phone numbers to choose from.