Frequently Asked Questions
Is your service e911 compliant?
Yes
Do you offer service outside of IL?
Yes we offer phone service nationwide; however our number selection for virtual fax is more limited. Please email support@chicagobusinessvoip.com for a list of area codes that we offer.
Can I use my current phone number with CBV service?
Yes we can port (move) your existing phone number over to CBV. You will sign a LOA- Letter of Agency which gives us permission to port your number(s) from your current provider.
How long does it take to port?
It normally takes 15-20 business days (sometimes sooner) depending on your current voice provider.
Can I use the CBV service prior my existing numbers porting over to your service?
Yes you can call your existing phone provider and ask them to set up RCF- Remote Call Forwarding your existing number to point to a temporary CBV number that we will assign to your phone.
Can I use my existing phone system with CBV service?
CBV only supports IP Phones from Cisco Systems http://www.cisco.com/. If you have a Cisco Phone it probably does work with the CBV service. Please email support@chicagobusinessvoip.com for a list of Cisco models that we currently support.
If I happen to leave CBV do I get to take keep my number(s)?
Yes CBV will allow you to keep your existing phone numbers. A $25.00 port fee may apply.
How long does it take to establish service?
We have IP Phones in stock. Our normal turnaround time is 3-5 business days to provision your new VoIP line and ship out the Cisco IP Phone.
Do you offer fax capability?
Yes we provide virtual fax numbers for most major markets. Virtual fax allows you to send and receive faxes securely as an email attachment with a dedicated fax number. Virtual fax also works for outbound fax as long as the document is saved on your computer or scanned prior to sending outbound.
What area codes do you have available for virtual fax?
Please contact support@chicagobusinessvoip.com for a list of fax area codes.
Is there a way to test my existing internet connection to see if it will support VoIP?
Yes contact support@chicagobusinessvoip.com and request our free remote network assessment guide. Email the results of the test and we will respond within 24 hours.
Can I move my Cisco IP Phone to another location?
Yes you can move the Cisco IP Phone to any broadband (DSL, Cable Modem, T1) connection.
How many concurrent calls/lines can each Cisco IP Phone support?
The Cisco 7940 phone has 2 lines appearances and can handle 4 concurrent calls. The Cisco 7960 Reception phone has 6 lines appearances and can handle 12 concurrent calls.
Does your unified messaging service work with MAC’s?
Yes, most of the unified messaging has been tested and works in a MAC environment.
Can I choose my own vanity number?
You can request a vanity number but it is very difficult to guarantee that your number is available.
Do I need a phone line or special equipment to make this work?
No, the only requirement for our solution is a broadband connection, i.e. DSL, Cable Modem, or T1.
Can I rent the Cisco IP Phone?
Yes you can rent the Cisco IP Phone for $15.00 per month.
Do you support conference calling?
Yes you can conference up to 8 parties free of charge directly from the Cisco IP Phone. For conferencing above 8 users, we offer a toll free conference bridge for .059 per minute. The toll free bridge can be set up via the CBV online portal.
Can I lease the Cisco IP Phone?
If you wish to lease instead of purchasing or renting from CBV, we require a PO from your leasing company to cover the cost of the Cisco IP Phones.
How long is the commitment?
CBV does not believe in committing our clients to long term agreements. All contracts are month to month.
Can I cancel at anytime?
Yes you can cancel at anytime.
Do you guarantee your service?
Yes we guarantee our service in writing.
What does the Cisco IP Phone plug into?
A standard CAT5 data connection. Please refer to the Getting Connected with CBV guide located on our support page.
Do you recommending using you service over DSL or Cable Modem?
We recommend Cable Modem or business grade DSL.
What is the minimum cost to get started?
$39.99 per month for the business line and $15.00 per month to rent the Cisco IP Phone or you can purchase the Cisco IP Phone for $250.
Do you support soft phones?
Yes a list of supported soft phones can be purchased from http://www.ipblue.com/. We recommend the VTGO model.
Does CBV work with my computer?
Yes you can plug the DSL or Cable Modem services directly in the Cisco IP Phone. We will provide you with another cable that plugs into your computer from the back of the phone into your PC.
Do you offer call recording?
Yes we offer call recording for $30.00 per user per line.
Why would I use CBV versus calling my local provider and purchasing phone lines?
The CBV services works over your existing internet access so you do not need to contact your local phone company. The local provider is still selling 100 year old analog POTS lines that incur high per minute usage charges for local and long distance calling, as well as very high taxes.
Can I make international calls?
Yes all international calls are priced per minute depending on the country you are calling. Email sales@chicagobusinessvoip.com for a current international rate sheet.
How do I know if someone left me a voice mail?
The red light on the Cisco IP phone will be illuminated and the Cisco IP phone will call any designated number, i.e. cell phone so you can access your voice mail from the road.
Does your service integrate with Microsoft outlook?
Yes the CBV service integrated with outlook for click to dial, voice mail to email, etc.
Do you offer training?
The Cisco IP Phone is shipped to your location with very detailed training manual.
What is your address?
1450 North Astor Street, Suite 12C, Chicago, IL 60610