What is a WiFi Phone?

The world of communication is going wireless. Cell phones and laptops allow for lightening fast connectivity to everything around us. But there’s another option in the ever-expanding technology field: WiFi phones.



To understand what a WiFi phone is, we first have to understand what WiFi means. It stands for "wireless fidelity", it’s a local wireless network that allows devices with wireless capabilities to tap into that network. So, this phone is a phone that allows its users to tap into a local area network (or wireless LAN), but it doesn’t stop there. In addition to tapping into an available wireless network, it can also connect to a standard cellular network. Depending on which is readily accessible, this type of phone will automatically switch over to a wireless or standard network as needed. For example, if someone attempts to make a call from a WiFi phone and the standard network does not register a signal, the phone will seamlessly transition to a local wireless network (if there’s one in the area).



The technology that makes these phones possible is VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). Basically, VoIP is a system that converts analogue signals to digital so that a phone call can be made over the internet. And, since the internet can be accessed wherever there’s wireless fidelity, a WiFi phone can also be used just as easily to make a call.



Depending on where you live, having this type of phone might provide more widespread coverage than a standard cell phone. Metropolitan areas can have buildings and high-rises that block cell phone reception, creating an endless stream of dropped calls. Having this phone can counter that phenomenon because in those same metro areas are numerous wireless hotspots which can provide the user another network on which to communicate. A WiFi phone also allows those who travel outside of their standard network the convenience of utilizing any available wireless network.



Getting set up with a WiFi phone begins with contacting your local cable company, specifically those who offer both internet and phone services. Or, instead of doing the heavy lifting yourself, you can let us sort through the information for you. Here at TheCableStudy we have gathered a list of the cable TV providers throughout the country. We give a breakdown of which cable providers operate in which state and city; and what features are available in those areas. On our site, you can also compare prices and features to make sure you’re getting the best deal.