I’m considering switching to a wireless carrier? If I decide to “cut the cord” and have only a wireless connection, what can I expect?

The number of customers considering switching from wireline to wireless service is on the increase. As a community based telecom provider with deep ties here in our service area, we want our customers to know exactly what it means to “cut the cord” – to terminate your traditional phone service and switch to wireless as your sole connection. If you decide to switch your telephone service to a wireless carrier, we want you to have an idea of the differences you can expect between traditional wireline service and wireless:

• If you switch your wireline phone service to a wireless carrier, you will be disconnecting your wireline phone and terminating your traditional local service.
• You may no longer enjoy unlimited local calling; in many cases, you will need to be aware of the number of minutes included in your wireless plan; keep in mind that in many cases (especially if you calling someone using a different wireless carrier), both the calls you make and those you receive will count against your total minutes; and, you will be responsible to pay for any overages.
• When you switch your service to a wireless carrier, you may be required to purchase a new phone and sign an “extended” service agreement; most wireless plans require up to a 24-month service contract, and significant penalties may apply if you decide to terminate the agreement before its expiration.
• You will have to arrange with your wireless provider for a directory listing and directory assistance services.
• In an emergency, E-911 service can pinpoint your traditional home phone, be sure your wireless provider can pinpoint your exact location and not just the general area.
• You will no longer have access to other telecom services available with wireline service or that are connected or confirmed through a wireline phone, such as alarm monitoring.
• In most cases, you will no longer be able to access the Internet using a local, unlimited dial-up or high-speed connection; in some cases, you may be able to connect your wireless phone to your PC to access the Internet, but you are likely to need additional hardware and/or software to enable your wireless phone to communicate with your PC.
• You will be unable to reach someone at your home who does not have their cell phone on or with them.
• You will have to keep your wireless phone charged at all times; in the event of a power outage, and your phone is not charged or the battery wears down, you will have to wait until power is restored before you can charge your phone.
• Typically, a phone number can only be assigned to a single wireless phone. With a traditional wireline phone, you can have several phones (or extensions) in your house that connect to the same number.
• If your home is in an area that does not enjoy clear wireless reception, your calls might be patchy, unclear, or have a tendency to drop. Be aware of your surroundings and the type of reception you get at home with your wireless phone, as this is the service quality you’ll have for all your calls.

For the best of both worlds, keep your DTC wireline phone service and add DTC Wireless to meet your wireless needs. Ask about DTC Rewards that provide discounts when you use DTC and DTC Wireless qualified services.