What is VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows you to make telephone calls using an Internet connection instead of a regular telephone line. Cable companies, telecommunication companies and independent providers offer these services.

How does VoIP work?
VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. You can make a VoIP call from a computer, a special VoIP phone, or a traditional phone using an adapter.

How do VoIP effect security systems?
Most alarm system control panels communicate with monitoring centers through the traditional analog telephone line.

With unapproved VoIP carriers, there maybe a reduction in alarm communication reliability and performance. Most likely there will be a signal reduction or no signal at all in alarm communication. The ability for our monitoring center to receive an alarm signal may be particularly impacted if there is a power outage or if there is a problem with your Internet provider for example. VoIP will not work and your alarm system will not be able to make an emergency call if it is triggered.

Bay Alarm Solutions
We offer these options:

Option A: Approved VoIP Providers
Currently, we are approved to install and monitor systems with Comcast VoIP. You will not need to do anything.

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Option B: Unapproved VoIP Providers
For those using unapproved VoIP service providers or considering changing to an unapproved VoIP provider, Bay Alarm advises a radio back-up system to address the security monitoring issues associated with other VoIP technology. We offer Cellnet radio back-up service.

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Option C: Traditional Phone line
Another solution is to keep the traditional phone line dedicated to your alarm system. This will ensure that your alarm system continues to function optimally and without interruption under normal circumstances.

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Option D: Radio Back-up

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What is Cellnet?
Our radio back-up system provides an alternate path for an alarm signal to reach our monitoring center. It has also become a popular option in home security systems because it helps provide protection if your traditional landline service or VoIP service is disrupted due to fallen lines, storms or construction.

Contact us if you need additional information on Cellnet, VoIP or if you are considering disconnecting your traditional phone line. 1-800-610-1000.