What is E911 & How Does it Work?

In the United States, E911 (Enhanced 911) is support for VoIP phone users who dial 911, the standard number for requesting help in an emergency. Since VoIP users are often mobile, some sort of enhancement is needed to 911 service that allows the location of the user to be known to the call receiver. E911 support is mandated by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for traditional VoIP Service.

On May 19, 2005, the FCC required that Internet service providers who interconnect VoIP calls with the public switched telephone network (PSTN) must provide E911 service for these callers and call dispatchers. Providers are required to inform users of the capabilities and any limitations of their 911 service. Providers were given 120 days to comply. Previously, as a general policy, the FCC had taken a “hands-off” position about regulating Internet traffic on the argument that the Internet is an information service rather than a communications service.

The FCC requires that carriers and interconnected VoIP (IVoIP) providers must meet all industry 911 standards. This includes systems that automatically provide a call-back number and accurate emergency location information.

Providers do not have to furnish E911 service for VoIP callers who do not interconnect with the PSTN such as those using instant messaging and Internet gaming.

Please visit www.bulkvs.com to see how we could help.