Who has switched their phone & internet to Fiber Optics? Is it better in every way?

Question

We got an offer from Verizon (near Philly) to switch and it's less than the DSL we have with them now. Getting the phone upgraded as well sounds like a win-win. Comments or Experiences?

Answer 1

I did it a couple of months ago (upstate New York).

1. I was concerned about power outage, but probably it is not an issue - they have two back-ups - a regular battery that will last for about 4 hours (you have check the battery, because you'll have to replace it in the future) and an emergency one which would allow you to make a 911 call.

2. The quality of phone conversations marginally improved

3. Internet connection depends on your computer. Verizon does mention the minimum processor speed (750 MHz, I believe). I thought that with slower processors it can't get worse, but probably I was wrong. I have several computers at home and with faster ones there is an improvement (especially with uploading and watching videos). My wife uses an older computer (350 MHz) and she says sometimes it takes MORE time.

4. Price. - definitely I am better off this year (first month was free, plus the monthly fee is lower than my DSL fee). Hopefully there will be no price hike once Verizon has enough customers (once you get FiOS, there is no switch back to a regular phone line)

5. Opportunity - FiOS-TV. We don't have a TV service yet (I was told that somewhere in Pennsylvania or maybe New Jersey they already have it), but once it arrive, I hope the price will be lower than Warner Cable.

If you have other questions - please let me know

Answer 2

I have it and I love it...I pay 19.95 for the phone got E911 and it works. the quality if better then a land line..also got a free softfone and with wifi-max-Intel goes right to my blue tooth or cellphone, so I only have to give out 1 phone number..I really don't understand why more ppl are not getting it...never had an outage...have it since 10/05...I programed my cell as a backup...just in case

Answer 3

Just be aware that is is cheaper because it is less reliable. You may have to make sure you're getting 911 service. And, if your power goes down, that phone may go down with it.