I agree, as a long time VoIP user, a separate router is my preference. The nice thing about the RT31P2 is flexibility.

  • R=Router
  • T=Telephone
  • 3=3 LAN Ethernet jacks (Your computers)
  • 1=1 WAN Ethernet jack (Your Cable/DSL Modem)
  • P2=2 phone jacks (2 separate phone lines)

You can begin with its router, and as your needs become more advanced, you can add a separate router, and connect the phone device behind it. No need to use the router part, but if things change, it's always there.

Most of my family are finally with High Speed Internet, but have not graduated to using a router. This is a good way for me to introduce them to both, the VoIP world, and the Networked Computer world.

I use this router. I have re-flashed it to an open-source software (In my case Tomato). I recommend this (Wireless is great!), or other routers that allow the longevity of community support software. There are several routers capable of such customization. For small steps in my extended family case, I will introduce them to the RT31P2, and see where it leads.