FCC Modernizes Numbering Rules To Spur Competitive VoIP Options

Media Contact:

Mark Wigfield, (202) 418-0253

mark.wigfield@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC Modernizes Numbering Rules To Spur Competitive VoIP Options for Consumers

Washington, D.C. (June 18, 2015) - The Federal Communications Commission today

modernized and streamlined its rules governing the distribution of phone numbers by leveling the

playing field for interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers, which are

increasingly popular with consumers.

Interconnected VoIP providers - defined as those capable of placing and receiving calls to and

from the traditional phone network -- currently must get numbers from third-party carriers.

Allowing these providers to go directly to numbering administrators for phone numbers will

benefit consumers by reducing costs and promoting additional competition from these innovative

VoIP providers, the FCC found.

The Order adopted unanimously by the FCC also facilitates the ongoing transitions in

communications technology that are sweeping the nation and improves FCC oversight of the

numbering system. These improvements will help ensure that calls connect nationwide and

provide more accountability in and protections for the numbering system.

Nearly one-third of all retail local telephone connections - about 48 million connections - were

served by VoIP at the end of 2013. Giving VoIP providers direct access to numbers will promote

competitive choice for consumers, including by speeding the transfer of a customer's existing

number to or from an interconnected VoIP provider, known as porting a number.

The Order also imposes a number of conditions to protect and enhance the security and integrity

of the numbering system. Conditions will also ensure that all numbers distributed are used,

protecting the system from running out of phone numbers.

Action by the Commission June 18, 2015 by Report and Order (FCC 15-70). Chairman Wheeler,

Commissioners Clyburn, Rosenworcel, Pai and O'Rielly. Chairman Wheeler, Commissioners

Clyburn, Rosenworcel, Pai and O'Rielly issuing statements.

###

Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500

TTY: (888) 835-5322

Twitter: @FCC

www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order

constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).

LINK:	http://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-modernizes-numbering-rules-spur-compet...
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