Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What is VoIP?
VoIP, or "Voice over Internet Protocol" refers to sending voice and fax phone calls over data networks, particularly the Internet. This technology offers cost savings by converging your business’s voice & data networks into one and it enables you to add additional features on your voice network at minimal costs.

Is VoIP right for my company?
In a word: Yes. Medium-to-large multi-national corporations will see the most savings (up to 70% off long distance phone bills), as they typically have both the network in place and the voice volume to get the most from Primus’ VoIP services. Small businesses can also benefit significantly because they can take advantage of features that were traditionally associated with expensive PBX phone systems but are now much more affordable with VoIP.

How much money will I save if I switch to Primus VoIP?
Primus' VoIP network offers significant savings to our customers – up to 30%, 50%, or even 70%, depending on your traffic mix and existing infrastructure. The VoIP network allows Primus to leverage our own network and peering relationships to eliminate costly private voice networks used to support interconnections between multiple office sites.

Primus' VoIP Network offers a global savings solution:

• Intra country calling
• International calling, worldwide origination
• Convergence of existing voice & data networks
• Elimination of costly MAC (Move, Add &/or Change) orders

How long does a VoIP system take to install?
Depending on the solution selected for your business, installation could take from 3 days to 15 business days to implement.

Will my company need any special phone equipment for Primus’ VoIP solution?
With Primus’ VoIP, customers can use their current phones and equipment, although in some instances, some system upgrades may be necessary. Systems that can be implemented without any additional purchases include Asterisk, Talkswitch, Avaya IP-PBX, Cisco Call Managers, Linksys SPA-9000, Linksys SPA-94X phones and Polycom Soundpoint IP series phones. Traditional PBX/KTS systems might need a VoIP Gateway placed between the PBX and the customers’ LAN/WAN to handle the conversion of TDM voice into VoIP packets.

In either care, you will be able to use your current phones/handsets. Your Internet connection will need to be of dedicated broadband, supporting a minimum of 256Kbps. Acceptable connections would include SDSL, Cable Modem, Dedicated T1 (Fractional or Full), T3, DS3, OC3 and beyond, depending on your voice and data requirements.

Do both sides of a call need VoIP in order to make a call?
Absolutely not. VoIP is "transparent." Once in place, you don't need to do anything other than place and receive calls, just as you regularly do.

Will Primus VoIP have the same sounds quality as a "traditional" phone line?
Yes! Probably even better! Primus, an international telecommunications company, has proven experience as a long-distance carrier. Our VoIP network is built over our already-existing global network. We own and operate an extensive global backbone network, including 23 international and domestic gateway switches located throughout the America’s, Europe and the Asia-Pacific regions. This network is supported by ownership in over 35 transoceanic fiber optic cable systems, providing connectivity to more than 250 countries worldwide. A call on the Primus VoIP avoids multiple “hops” because of our centralized routing and peering relationships. Primus routes and monitors a VoIP call in the same fashion as a traditional voice call, ensuring the highest quality call, but at a cost-savings to you.

How stable is VoIP technology?
Very. It is based on the Internet Protocol, a proven, global standard.

How does E-911 work?
Primus routes your VoIP 911 call to the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), which provides emergency services in your area. The appropriate PSAP is determined by the address you have supplied Primus. It is important to make sure this address is where your Primus VoIP device (adapter, phone or gateway) is located, as your call will be routed to the corresponding PSAP for your area and any incorrect information could delay the required emergency services. (The PSAP is the agency that takes emergency calls and routes them to the appropriate emergency service such as police, fire and medical. )

What is the difference between E-911 and traditional 911?
Primus VoIP calls will be routed to the PSAP’s general access line, which is different from the 911 Emergency Response Center. You will need to state the nature of your emergency promptly and clearly, including your location and telephone number, as PSAP personnel can help you effectively and will take necessary steps to provide you with the appropriate assistance, such as dispatching police, an ambulance and/or a fire truck.

Can my business retain it’s Toll Free Numbers/Local Telephone numbers?
Primus’ Sales Executives exercise due diligence in providing you with a quote and will always check your local numbers against the LNP database to ensure our Nationwide footprint covers your local area. Additionally Primus Telecommunications is a full service Responsible Organization allowing us to act as your Toll Free Number provider for both existing and new TFN’s.

Where is Primus VoIP available?
Primus is able to deliver VoIP service worldwide, anywhere there is a broadband Internet connection. Whether your business is located in the US or internationally, we can deliver. (It is the customer’s responsibility to comply with their country's regulatory laws.)