VoIP Now

ACN is an affordable VoIP service that offers free, unlimited calls to the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. The company supports many features and also specializes in video phone conferencing, DSL service and wireless communications. Known for its popular reseller program, ACN is one of the most widely discussed VoIP providers currently in operation.

Installation and Interface

Installation is very simple, as the company provides a Linksys router that arrives quickly upon ordering. The Linksys box is “plug-and-play,” meaning that users will not have to possess advanced IT skills to install the VoIP service. In fact, those with an existing broadband connection should be able to use the VoIP phone almost immediately upon receiving the router.

Features

Like most VoIP providers, ACN offers features that aren’t normally available with a traditional landline. ACN users will have free protected voicemail, call waiting, caller ID, the ability to keep the same number and more. The company is also known for its video phone conferencing, which is a major draw for business people, as well as home users with long-distant friends and family. More importantly, perhaps, is ACN’s low monthly rates.

Performance

While a majority of users have experienced little to no problems with ACN’s performance, some have reported a faint echo or intermittent static during peak hours of Internet traffic. This can occur with some VoIP services and shouldn’t deter too many users from what is, overall, a pleasant alternative to expensive landline services. Early issues with dropped calls have seemed to have disappeared, as ACN has ironed out some early technical problems with its service.

Service and Support

ACN offers a 24-hour, toll-free support line to customers in the United States. During normal business hours, there are also customer service representatives available who speak fluent Spanish, Korean and French. In addition to phone support, ACN has an extensive and helpful FAQ list on the company’s official Web site. Service and support through ACN is above-average and pleasant.

List of Features Available on ACN

Support: Free 24/7 Guarantee: No Residential Plan: Yes Small Business Plan: No 411 Service: No 911 Service: Yes

Call Return (*69): Included Call Waiting: Yes Caller ID: Included Click-to-Call: No Fax Line (FoIP): Included International Calling: Yes

IP PBX Solution: No Keep Your Number: Available PC-to-PC Calling: No PC-to-Phone Calling: No Virtual Phone Numbers: Yes