Home phone service without a landline: your options

When the copper landline ends, you can still have a home phone. The right choice depends on three things: your cell signal at home, whether you have home internet, and what else plugs into your phone jack.

Your main options

AT&T Phone - Advanced

Internet home phone (like Ooma)

A box connects your phones to AT&T's cell network or internet. Limited battery backup in a power outage. Best for the simplest switch with the same number and company.

Plugs into your home internet and uses your existing phones. Works in an outage only with battery backup for the router and box. Best if you have reliable internet.

Home phone over the cell network

Simple cell phone

A small base uses a cell carrier's network and your phones plug in. Limited battery backup. Best with no internet at home and good cell signal.

An easy-to-use phone with large buttons. Works in an outage while charged. Best if you have good cell signal and are comfortable with a mobile phone.

See signal boosters
Keep your phone working in an outage

How to choose

1. Signal check

2. Internet reliability

Check cell signal inside your home. Two bars or fewer? A signal booster can help.

Check your internet. If it goes down often, an internet phone will too.

3. Connected devices

4. Power outages

List what plugs into your phone jack. Medical alert, alarm and fax need to work on whatever you choose.

Plan for power outages. Every option except a charged cell phone needs electricity.

Can I keep my phone number?

Usually yes. Ask the new provider to port your number before you cancel the old service. Don't cancel first, or you could lose it.

Questions to ask any provider

• Can I keep my number?

• What's the monthly price after any promotion?

• Is there a contract or equipment fee?

• Will my medical alert, alarm or fax work?

• How long does it work in a power outage?

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