subject: How Has The Internet Affected The Traditional Landline Phone? [print this page] As we progress further into the 21st century, technological advancements are becoming greater and more frequent, and as a result of these technological innovations it seems that both our social and economic worlds are destined to change. In fact it is already true that digital mediums have started to revolutionise many aspects of our daily lives, for instance people are now presented with a variety of options when it comes to communicating. With the Internet holding a number of choices alone it almost seems as though the traditional landline phone is becoming obsolete. However there is not a clear distinction for this as although digital mediums have proved themselves to be versatile and effective, there are still some benefits to owning a landline phone.
There are a number of different options for anyone wishing to communicate via the Internet including, social networking sites, email, and Skype. With so many possibilities lying with the Internet its almost surprising that communications companies are only just catching on to this untapped potential. One useful innovation that has come about in recent years is the VoIP phone, functioning the same way that a regular household phone would but operating via the Internet. This product combines the user friendly aspects of the home phone with the economical prices that the Internet has to offer.
There are a number of reasons that some people might find the a VoIP phone appealing, but it is most likely that the key driving force behind their rise to popularity is the fact that long distance and international calls can be made for little or no extra cost to the user. So for anyone who has relatives or friends abroad, VoIP phones certainly offer a cheaper alternative to the traditional landline. VoIP phones also come with a range of different functions and features too making them quite versatile devices. Users can check emails, send instant messages, and even make video calls. VoIP phones can also be easily moved from one location to another and simply plugged into an Internet connection.
Despite the fact VoIP phones hold a number of advantages there are still some reasons why you may want to keep your traditional landline phone. One reason could be regarding issues of security, because the Internet is so accessible it can mean that youre vulnerable to hackers, so disclosing any personal information could leave you susceptible to fraud, this is not true of a landline phone. Furthermore the traditional landline telephone is the only modern communications device that can function without electricity so they can be useful in the event of a power cut.
