Linksys voip router

Explaining VoIP takes longer than setting this up.

It's only a matter of time before someone asks you to help install a VoIP system like the Linksys VoIP Adapter (PAP2). Setup is quick; explaining how VoIP works might take a while.

The PAP2 is a small box with an Ethernet port to connect to a router or modem, and two phone ports. Installation equals plugging the right cords into the right jacks.

Connecting a cordless phone is smart because the router/modem might not be in the best place for a phone.

Our biggest problem was trying to find the device's little stand (we had to dig through the box). Allow some time for setting up the service with Vonage through its Web site. Users will need your expertise to help choose calling plans and features. We tested the Vonage bundle, but Linksys also sells the PAP2 with Verizon's VoiceWing Broadband Phone Service.

Once the account and service are activated, the Web interface makes it easy for users to manage features and service. The interface displays a log of all in- and outbound calls, and a link to voice mail lets them play voice mail messages as audio files on the PC. Tasks, such as changing the number calls are forwarded to, are simple.

To test voice quality, we made and received local and long-distance calls. Voice quality was consistently good, similar to a landline voice call, with the occasional garble, crackle or echo. We didn't notice any data degradation while making a VoIP call - our networked computers surfed the Web without hiccups.