Reliability is much better. If the power goes out, your IP Phones do not since they typically are connected to routers/servers or another locally generate power source. Some broadband connections may have less than desirable quality. Where IP packets are lost or delayed at any point in the network between VoIP users, there will be a momentary drop-out of voice. This is more noticeable in highly congested networks and/or where there are long distances between end points. Technology has improved the reliability and voice quality over time and will continue to improve VoIP performance. The nature of IP makes it difficult to locate network users geographically. Emergency calls, therefore, cannot easily be routed to a nearby call center. If using a software based soft-phone, calls can only be placed from the computer on which the soft-phone software resides.