By Rachel Cericola, Dec 21, 2005

Despite what some people would like to admit, voice over IP (VoIP) is an emerging technology. In fact, I can't seem to get away from it lately.

One of the major complaints is that most VoIP services doesn't allow for 911 access, since it can be used almost anywhere a Web connection is present. Consumers don't like that, the government doesn't like it -- and now provider Vonage is actually doing something about it.

Vonage currently offers E911 (the "e" is for enhanced) all over the U.S. Basically when you dial 911, Vonage will send out your address and phone number to the authorities. In the event where the the local authorities can’t access the info, Vonage offers basic 911. They also have their own emergency response center on call, as a back up. Sounds like a plan!