Local exchange carriers pay fees for use of incumbent networks, meanwhile VoIP providers can bypass companies these and provide services over the Internet. Thus, phone carriers lose both a revenue stream from the fees as well as its edge to competition. Sure, VoIP allows just about anyone to compete but that can be double edge sword.

But regardless of the risks involve phone companies are left with no choice but to jump in and take the plunge. If not for gain at least as some sort of leverage, a defensive strategy they can hang on to. As far as the demand for this type is service is concern, VoIP might still live up to the claim “next big thing” and live up to the expectation of reviving the telecommunication industry after all. Doubtless, companies are investing millions upon millions of dollars to answer the issues surrounding VoIP that might hinder its success.

So what can we expect from VoIP? Well, VoIP’s future does indeed look promising especially for the consumers. So far, providers are looking on possibly adding to or even coming up with a substitute for large PBX systems for the corporations. Adding web conferencing capabilities along with wireless VoIP (wVoIP) instead of using LAN’s is also being looked into.