VoIP Project General Questions

What is Voice-over IP (VOIP)?

Voice over Internet Protocol, also called VoIP, IP Telephony, Internet telephony, Broadband telephony, Broadband Phone and Voice over Broadband is the routing of voice conversations over the Internet or through any other IP-based network.  VoIP represents the next generation in communication services. By moving voice services to the data network, we eliminate a separate, managed voice infrastructure and dramatically reduce the cost of telephone moves, adds and changes.

Will my phone number change?

No.  Your phone number should remain the same.

Will my telephone set be changed?

Yes.  You will be given a state-of-the-art CISCO IP phone. Two types of IP phone sets have been selected to replace our current equipment. 

• Cisco IP Phone 7941: This two-line set has a large, pixel-based LCD display which identifies incoming messages and categorizes them for users on the screen. Numerous other features, such as call display and an integrated directory service, are also standard.
  
  
• Cisco IP Phone 7961: This six-line phone also features a large, pixel-based LCD display. This set is dynamic and designed to grow with system capabilities. Features will keep pace with new changes via software updates to the phone’s flash memory.

What features will be available on my new IP phone?

The basic features on every phone line are currently being programmed into the new system. Optional features such as speed dial, call display, or distinctive ringing, can be customized by the end user. Other, more enhanced features, can be accessed directly on the Web. 

Will I still be able to access my voice-mail outside the system?

Yes.  Dial your office phone number directly, wait for the answering message to start. Press * and follow the prompts.  You will be asked for your ID number (your 5 diget extension followed by the # key) and password.

Will long distance calling remain the same?

No.   If you presently use an authorization code to dial long distance, then you must dial 9 + 1 + area code + phone number + authorization code without 26 + # 

For example if your authorization code was 26-12345 and you wanted to dial the UA Statewide Help Desk (450-8300) than the number you would call is:  91907450830012345#

Will help and training be available for this new system?

You can request departmental or individual training.  In addition, pamphlets and instruction guides will be distributed along with the deployment of your new phone.

Will my phone work during a power failure?

UAA utilizes UPS backup.  If in the remote possibility the backup fails and your computer does not work, your phone will not work.