The traditional phone service provider–also called the Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC)–was the only source for phone carrier service for many years. In 1996, however, National Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) were given the green light to enter the market to compete with the traditional phone carriers. So, should you be using a CLEC for your business?
CLECs may be operated on a national basis, or they may be local or regional. Regardless of their coverage area, they purport to be more responsive and to provide better customer service than the ILECs. In addition, CLECs generally charge less than traditional phone service carriers.
CLECs may ...
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The traditional phone service provider–also called the Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC)–was the only source for phone carrier service for many years. In 1996, however, National Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) were given the green light to enter the market to compete with the traditional phone carriers. So, should you be using a CLEC for your business?
CLECs may be operated on a national basis, or they may be local or regional. Regardless of their coverage area, they purport to be more responsive and to provide better customer service than the ILECs. In addition, CLECs generally charge less than traditional phone service carriers.
CLECs may be resellers, meaning that they purchase their services from another company at wholesale prices and then resell them at or below retail price. Some CLECs are agents who work with phone companies to sell their services. There are also many facilities-based CLEC phone companies. Unlike resellers and agents, these companies own their equipment.
CLECs and ILECs provide the same types of services; however some CLECs also provide high-speed Internet access. These CLECs provide VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone service rather than landline-based service.
Are National Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) right for your business? Only you can decide. For more information to help you in your decision, click on the links on the left, which have been carefully chosen by Business.com.
