How The Vonage V-Phone Solved A Big Problem For Me.

I have traveled internationally as a part of my job for the past 20 years. Keeping in contact with family and office staff while traveling has been a long-time problem for me. At first, I found Skype--and, I loved it. But, recently, I started with a new employer. They have a very strict rule that software cannot be installed on any of their computers without permission from the IT manager. Skype is therefore out of the question.

One Fine Day At WalMart

Recently, I was at Wal-Mart picking up travel supplies for yet another trip to Africa. This would be my first trip to Africa with my new employer--and, without Skype. I was actually processing how I would maintain contact without Skype...and, I was thinking of how easy it would be to simply install software on a jump-drive and run it from there. Unfortunately, I am not enough of a computer geek to accomplish what I dreamed of. At that very moment I found myself standing in front of a Vonage V-Phone display. It looked like the exact thing I wanted!

Using V-Phone

I came racing home with my V-Phone in my hand--to the skeptical stares of Mrs. Royalcrowncola. She did her usual "tisk-tisking" and eye rolling as I explained how this small device would solve some of our communication problems. I carefully slotted it into my employer’s computer and found that--as advertised--it did not leave any files on the host computer nor did it require any installation of software on the hard drive. That means I can also jump into an internet café and use my V-Phone without leaving behind any information that can be used to steal my identity.

The first step in using the V-Phone is to complete the registration formalities with Vonage via their website. It requires a credit card to handle the monthly charges. When installed the V-Phone software brings up a phone interface on screen that is easy and intuitive to use. Once the V-Phone is connected to the Vonage server you are ready to make your phone calls. The call quality depends on the band-width of the server you are using. In some international hotels I have had a few problems with calls dropping or breaking up. I have yet to have an “echo” effect problem.

Customer Service

I haven’t had to resort to using the Vonage customer service facilities—which my two brothers assure me are simply terrible. Finding that Vonage uses a “know nothing—do nothing” call center in India wouldn’t be a big surprise for me…it’s about the same as reaching a “know nothing—do nothing” call center in the USA. Even so, I’ve had no billing problems or technical issues with the V-Phone.

Bottom Line

I’m not too sure who the intended market is for the V-Phone…but, I’m fairly certain that a slightly paunchy middle aged international traveler is not it! Even so, this phone works well for me…and, it has solved a huge problem of maintaining contact with home while traveling.