Maple Ridge Internet Options? BC

Posts: 2 · Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 12:13 pm Post subject: Maple Ridge Internet Options? BC

Hi there,

I'm about to move to Maple Ridge, postal code V2W 2E8.

I would like to use Voip, but I want to insure that I get the fastest possible net connection to minimize my chances of having substandard service. Can people recommend options?

Thanks,

Jon

Posts: 188 · Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 2:00 pm Post subject:

Hello,

Speed is not really the issue as Voip doesn't use much bandwidth. Quality of service is the issue. While DSL typically has better QoS, it means that you would be stuck with Telus as they won't unbundle DSL from their phone service. Other DSL providers in this market also bundle phone service and DSL together. This means that you have to pay for a residential phone line that you don't need. Therefore the only real option, regardless of where you live is cable internet. The QoS is lower than DSL but it works well with Voip.

In Bell country back east, you can get DSL "dry" (unbundled from phone service). Hopefully, the same will be true here in the future. For now, the best way to use Vonage in Telus country is to cut the cord with them completely and use Shaw Internet.

Likely some of your new neighbours have Shaw Internet. Perhaps you could ask them about their speed and QoS to help you make a decision.

Posts: 1 · New Forum Member Joined: Jan 02, 2006 Posts: 1

Personally I have not signed up for Vonage yet, but have been advised by a friend that he had a problem with it, (using Shaw), until he paid a $10 premium to Shaw for a Quality of Service addition to his line (I think it may be the Extreme option they offer). Don't know if this is true everywhere or maybe it was just a problem in his area .. might want to check this out.

Posts: 2 · Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 5:22 am Post subject:

I've never actually used Voip, and the mention of quality of service brings up a concern. Is there a discernable difference in quality between this and a regular land line? I've hated cell phones for this reason. I know it'd drive me nuts if I had a sub standard connection.

Thanks,

Jon

Posts: 188 · Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 10:40 am Post subject:

The term "quality of service" refers to your internet connection, not your Voip service. Low quality of service on your internet connection can affect your Voip service however. Try out to the Voip speed test on this forum to get a better explaination.