week 9 blog

This article relates to my research topic. VoIP has the potential to revolutionize the way we use telephones. I think the biggest potential use is being able to use wireless internet connection to make phone calls from personal devices such as PDA’s. When I read about the disadvantages it does point out that the technology still has a long ways to go from being a viable replacement for analog lines. The fact that it does depend on wall power to operate makes me think that there will always be a place for analog lines, since they do not go out of service with the loss of power. The issue of a reliable emergency call line is one that is a hot topic with government regulators right now. VoIP services do not have a system of regulation that will assure that this technology will work in emergency situations. I think the time that that happens will also be the time that the technology really takes off towards replacing the old standard. After researching the technology I believe that VoIP will follow a similar path of adoption as email. While we do heavily use our email accounts, there will always be a place for traditional “snail” mail. Having a very reliable analog system set up as we do today, I see no reason to tear down this system even if the new one takes off.

1. Will VoIP leave no incentive to use analog phone lines?
2. Can the government successfully regulate a technology that has a low barrier to entry?
3. How much of an issue will security be?