VOIP Basic Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do I need to run the TeleSouth service?

You will need a high-speed broadband Internet connection (such as DSL or cable) and a normal telephone. TeleSouth will supply you with a small adaptor box that connects your telephone to your Internet connection. The adaptor box is able to use any available ethernet jack on your home or business network. If only a single ethernet connection on your DSL or cable modem, and your computer is plugged into this connection, you will need to purchase an inexpensive home gateway/router box so that multiple IP devices can share the single connection.

What shipping method do you use?

Our shipping is via UPS Ground.

Can I transfer my existing telephone number to TeleSouth?

Yes, we do port numbers from other service providers. In order for us to be able to import numbers from other providers you will need to fill out the Letter of Authorization found at the link above which should be faxed to us. Also, you must stay connected with your current phone service to hold the number you want ported. On average, this process may take 15-20 business days, however it can take longer. You will be assigned a temporary number, which will then be replaced once your desired number has been ported. During this time, you may be paying two phone bills at one time."

Will TeleSouth contact my current telephone company so that my old, legacy telephone service will be cancelled?

No, we do not contact your existing telephone company. TeleSouth will assign you a new TeleSouth telephone number that works over your existing internet connection, but you are responsible for making any changes to your existing telephone service, if you so desire. You can use your TeleSouth number and your legacy telephone service at the same time, if you wish.

Can I use my TeleSouth account with a dial up internet connection?

No. You must have a DSL, wireless broadband, or Cable connection in order to use TeleSouth service.

Is the adaptor I need to use your service included in the service plans?

Yes. One adaptor is included in the plans at no additional charge.

Does TeleSouth support FAX machines, modems, TIVO boxes, or DirectTV boxes?

Faxing is currently under development. Due to internet difficulties Faxing is not 100% reliable therefore we do not wish to offer a faulty product. This service does not support TIVO, Direct TV, home security systems, or any other application that uses a dial up modem.

Why should I want voice services over my broadband connection?

Using the broadband data connection that you already pay for to run voice services will save you money. TeleSouth offers competitively priced calling plans, integrated voice mail and web-based control of your phone account. With the TeleSouth broadband telephone service, you can choose an area code in the calling area you want from throughout the United States. TeleSouth phone numbers are never "busy"; calls are always routed to an available endpoint or to your voicemail box. Because the TeleSouth service is "digital", you and your callers will experience better voice quality than with traditional analog and cell phone services. You can also take your TeleSouth ATA phone adaptor with you whenever you travel and your phone number will follow you to wherever you connect to the Internet.

Is there a difference between using DSL or Cable modem when using TeleSouth? Which do you recommend to use?

Both DSL and cable modem services provide sufficient broadband Internet access bandwidth to support the TeleSouth service.

Is there a way to connect all of the phones in my house to TeleSouth?

You could buy a multiple analog jack extension connector and plug it into the adaptor phone jack. This connector would allow you to use multiple phones on a single TeleSouth line. Another alternative is to use a cordless phone system. These phone systems come with a base unit and extra handsets. The base station of the cordless phone plugs into the adaptor. The extra handsets can then be placed anywhere in the house. You could also purchase wireless phone jacks. The base unit of the wireless phone jack system connects to the adaptor and the wireless jacks plug into your household electrical outlets. You can then connect the phone to the wireless jack.
NOT RECOMMENDED: Some people disconnect the phone company from their house and then connect our adaptor into one of the outlets in their house, thus powering all of the other outlets. If you try to do this, please make sure that the phone company is COMPLETELY disconnected (and stays disconnected) before connecting us, otherwise you will damage your adaptor. If you are unsure of what you are doing, please contract with a licensed wiring technician.

When I first power up my adaptor, how long should I wait before picking up the handset to get dial tone?

Your adaptor should be operational with dial tone in 2 minutes or less.

What if I forget my TeleSouth phone number? Is there a phone number that I can call?

Your TeleSouth phone number is displayed on your account page of this site after you have logged on with your customer account username and password.

I have DSL on my "regular" telephone line. Is it possible to cancel the telephone service and still keep my DSL connection?

You need to contact your DSL provider and ask them, as every provider has different regulations. TeleSouth will not contact any of your current telecommunications providers.

Can you ship to international addresses (outside the United States)? How much does it cost?

TeleSouth does not ship to international addresses at this time. However, Authorized TeleSouth partners may ship devices to customers overseas at their own expense. TeleSouth will only be responsible for shipping the device to the local partners in these instances.

Does TeleSouth support virtual phone numbers (a number somewhere else that also rings your TeleSouth phone number)?

Yes, you may purchase as many virtual phone numbers as you would like to forward to a primary TeleSouth phone number. Each virtual number is only $4.99 per month after a $9.99 activation.

When will you be offering TeleSouth phone numbers where I live?

We currently offer service throughout the United States. However, there is still limited availibility for local area codes. While we are always working to expand the reach of the TeleSouth network, we cannot provide any timeframes for when TeleSouth phone numbers in your local area code may become available. Please keep in mind that you can always sign up for service using one of our existing area codes, and if a more desirable area code later becomes available, we will happily switch your service over to that new area code at no additional charge.

How do I cancel my TeleSouth service?

You can cancel service at anytime through your TeleSouth account administration site.You may also call us at Customer Support. Your month will be pro-rated up to the point you cancelled and service will cease immediately. A $39.99 disconnect fee will also be charged. To receive a credit for the disconnect fee, you must return the Device(s) undamaged and in original condition within 14 days of termination. Please include your account number on the shipping label of each individual device to assure proper credit.