USA Guide: Telephone & Internet

For most people arriving in a new country, getting a phone with a fixed line or a cell phone (the name for a mobile phone in the US) is a high priority. But be careful when using global roaming with your non-American cell phone - it can soon become seriously expensive. Our guide is packed with information on phone providers, tariffs and tips on saving money on your international calls.

• 

  Introduction

  Phones and cell phones in the U.S.

  Americans are probably the most frequent phone users globally, and it can sometimes seem as if they have their phones permanently glued to their ears. The telephone system is one of the most modern in the world, and heavy competition has helped drive prices down.

  more
• 

  Getting a phone line

  How to get a landline (fixed line) at home

  Getting a phone line installed is a straightforward process in America, and most homes already have a line installed.

  more
• 

  Calling

  How to make a phone call in the U.S.

  Calling from the U.S. is pretty much the same as calling from any other country. However, the different ways to dial a number depending on your location can be confusing when you first arrive.

  more
• 

  Long Distance calls

  How to save money on long-distance calls

  When making long-distance calls, you can save money by choosing the company that offers the best deal. While your local calls are served by a local phone company, calls outside your local area are called toll calls and are handled by a long-distance phone company.

  more
• 

  Public phones

  Phone booths and phone cards

  Due to the increase in mobile phone usage, public phones are less common than they used to be. But if you need one, they can still be found in hotels, railway stations, airports and pedestrian areas in cities.

  more
• 

  Information

  Phone books, enquiries and important numbers

  Local phone books, white pages and yellow pages are available free of charge from the phone companies. If you get a telephone installed, you will receive free copies of the phone book. They are published annually and are delivered to your address.

  more
• 

  Mobile phones

  Cell phone operators and networks

  Mobile phones in the U.S. are simply called cell phones . Cell phone use is very popular and almost everybody has one. Note that in America you pay for incoming as well as for outgoing calls.

  more
• 

  Mobile rates

  How to choose the right calling plan

  Unless you have a doctorate in nuclear physics, understanding the pricing plans of the various providers can be a challenge. Most pricing plans are complex to understand, but the following points should help in making your decision:

  more
• 

  Internet

  How to get connected at home

  There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing an ISP (Internet Service Provider) in the States. And it's certain that during your stay you will hear about them through advertising. If you are studying, all universities and schools provide Internet access.

  more
• 

  Internet cafés and access

  Where to access the internet

  It is not hard to find an internet café in America. The best places, both in terms of speed and price, tend to be the larger internet cafés (with 20 or more computers) that focus on providing computer access. However, many fast food restaurants now offer WiFi to their customers and may be a viable alternative to the formerly very popular internet cafés.

  more