Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC)

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Tips & Advice to help you make your decision on Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC)

Competitive local exchange carriers (CLEC) are the true local phone companies. Many in the industry are a little fuzzy when it comes to the relationship between CLECs and Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers (ILECs) and other companies such as Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers are the phone companies that existed after the breakup of Ma Bell into seven separate companies decades ago. CLECs are local companies that purchase lines and central switching space from the ILECs to provide competitive services. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 made it illegal for the ILECs to refuse to allow access to its infrastructure. A great many CLEC's are still operating in the U.S. as a result.

Businesses often rely on Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) for their local business telephone services, fax services and other products, as they find that doing so allows their businesses to take advantage of the local cost savings. Opening a new office often results in a service contract with a CLEC, but before doing so, researching the subject is vital, as the pricing models are complex, and specific services, such as T1 lines, can be low cost. With the CLECs providing businesses with up to 24 phone lines in a single package, bundle pricing can be advantageous. If you are interested in more information, then Business.com can help by offering premier information resources. If you click the links on the left, the information provided can help you connect today.

Making the Most of Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC)

Making the most of competitive local exchange carriers (CLEC) comes down to two factors: saving money on telecom expenses and getting the services your business needs. CLEC companies have existed since the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which deregulated phone service. They compete with incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs). ILECs are the carriers that were in place before deregulation.

Some larger competitive local exchange carriers host their own lines, but most use rack space and lines provided by the ILEC and act as a reseller. They resell the services to local customers and coordinate customer service and repair services. Some of the ways to choose the best service from CLECs include:

1. Do a thorough comparison of local phone carriers in your area.

2. Check out services provided by large national telecommunications providers.

3. Get help from a consultant to find ways to save money and utilize technology.

Compare ILEC and CLEC providers

Plans and services differ among telecom providers. Shopping around for service is necessary to find the best solution for your business and to uncover all the options available. Some small providers may not offer a well-known name, but could still offer just what your business needs.
Try: The Federal Communications Commission provides a list of CLECs as well as incumbent local exchange carriers throughout the U.S. To find more options for your state, visit the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissions.

Check out large providers for CLEC service

Most nationwide telecommunications providers operate as competitive local exchange carriers in areas where they are not the incumbent provider. Some of the benefits of using a large national provider is reliable service and a robust, secure network. National providers also offer additional features that can be bundled with your phone service to save money.
Try: Check out services from Verizon, Cavalier Telephone & TV and AT&T. In most areas, these companies also provide high-speed Internet, wireless and satellite television. They also offer packages for business, including voice mail and call management software. Save money by bundling packages.

Get assistance in choosing CLEC services

Choosing a provider can feel like an overwhelming process. Comparing services, as well as analyzing your current phone bills is a lot of work. A telecommunications consultant can help. Consultants are familiar with local carriers and can help choose solutions to save money on local and long distance service. Choose a consulting company that is familiar with current technology to assist in choosing voice mail and call management solutions to integrate with your telecom service.
Try: Webb & Associates is a consulting firm that offers telecom consulting services to help find the best technology solutions. A.J.C. Communications will review and audit current telecom services and recommend solutions to save money and utilize telecommunications technology. To find more consultants, check the Society of Telecommunications Consultants for a directory of consultants throughout the United States. Members must adhere to strict professional standards and a code of ethics.

A smaller competitive local exchange carrier in your area often offers personal service and a great deal. However, it may have limited control over system outages and repair time. Check references and ask about reliability.