Frequently Asked Questions - Dry Loop

	What is a dry loop?
	How can I order a dry loop?
	How much does a dry loop cost?
	Can I pay the dry loop fees for a whole year and get a discount?
	I have signed a 12-month contract with Pathway for a high-speed Internet service. Do I need to cancel this contract to switch to a dry loop?
	Why do I have to pay an extra fee to switch to a dry loop?
	What if my number is not eligible for a dry loop?
	Can I keep my existing number if I switch to a “dry loop”?
	I have a Pathway dial-up plan, can I switch to a “dry loop”?

What is a dry loop?

A “dry loop” (sometimes referred as a “Naked DSL”) is a phone line without an active telephone service. There is no dial tone on the line and its sole purpose is to provide high-speed Internet access.

A dry loop allows users to dispense with their regular phone service and utilize their high-speed Internet service to obtain a Voice Over IP (VoIP) phone line.

How can I order a dry loop?

Order a dry loop online when you subscribe to one of Pathway's High Speed Internet plans, VoiceCool VoIP plans or SURFTALK bundles. Click here to sign up now.

How much does a dry loop cost?

Pathway customers can order a dry loop for an additional monthly fee of $5 to $28 (on top of the regular Internet service fees). There will be also a $19.99 one-time setup fee. Please note that these fees vary depending on the service address of the dry loop. However, if you order any SurfTalk bundled service, you do not need to worry about a dry loop fee since it is already included in the listed monthly subscription fee.

Can I pay the dry loop fees for a whole year and get a discount?

The dry loop charges will be billed monthly regardless of your Internet service billing period – monthly or annually.

I have signed a 12-month contract with Pathway for a high-speed Internet service. Do I need to cancel this contract to switch to a dry loop?

No. Switching to a dry loop will not affect your existing contract with Pathway. Your credit card will be charged monthly for the use of a dry loop, which means you can subscribe to the dry loop at any time during your contract period.

Why do I have to pay an extra fee to switch to a dry loop?

The Canadian Radio Television Commission (CRTC) regulates that ISPs must be charged an additional fee by telecommunications carriers such as Bell Canada for the ability to lease phone lines.

What if my number is not eligible for a dry loop?

A dry loop allows you to “unbundle” your Internet connection from your regular phone line enabling you to switch to Pathway's VoiceCool VoIP Phone service. However, if your phone number is not eligible for a dry loop, you may try the option outlined below:

Keep your existing phone service, but downgrade it to their most basic plan (if your provider is Bell, this will cost you $19 to $28 per month). This will ensure that you retain your high-speed Internet connection.

Subscribe to Pathway's VoiceCool VoIP Phone service and receive 22 great phone features at no extra cost. Instead of transferring your existing number, choose the option of having VoiceCool assign you a new number.

Can I keep my existing number if I switch to a “dry loop”?

There is no guarantee from Pathway’s VoiceCool VoIP phone service or other VoIP providers that your number can be transferred. If your number cannot be transferred, we will let you know well in advance and assign you a new VoiceCool phone number.

I have a Pathway dial-up plan, can I switch to a “dry loop”?

Dry loops are only available for high-speed Internet subscribers. If you wish to get a dry loop, upgrade to a Pathway high-speed plan, and then complete the “Switch to Dry Loop” form.