NNX Group

[jgomer]

We pay for an entire 10,000 number NNX with CenturyLink (407-742-xxxx). What are the risks of unlocking this block so a group of numbers can be ported to another carrier? I'm concerned with 911 implications and resource management and ultimately, getting the numbers back from the other carrier should they finish with them.

Regards,

- Joel
Osceola County BoCC

 

[mforrence]

So long as you retain control of the numbers, there is very little risk. Much of the 911 risk depends on exact configuration.

 

[jgomer]

We would have to relinquish control of the block of 100 numbers in order to port it to another carrier.

 

[mforrence]

You can retain "ownership" of the numbers and simply port them to another carrier. Happens all of the time. It is when you sign the numbers over to another organization that you lose control.

 

[jgomer]

Can you help me understand the process to do this? Is there paperwork involved? How does this affect our billing?

 

[mforrence]

Yes, there is paperwork. You supply a list of numbers to move as well as a letter of authorization (LOA) to new carrier. Once ported, your new carrier bills you for new service, old carrier reduces your bill - likely VERY slightly, as DID station numbers are likely the smallest component of the bill - unless you are reducing the quantity of trunks/channels that old carrier is providing. The new carrier will typically ferry the process thru. Of course, new carrier needs to provide trunks for connection of DID station numbers. Your PBX/communications vendor can also likely help you thru this process, making sure that all bases are covered.

 

[SYQUEST]

Actually, since the county is not an ILEC or CLEC, the code holder is EMBARQ FLORIDA, INC. DBA CENTURYLINK. The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA)has rules and guidelines as to how 1000 number blocks or whole codes are administered and used. In regards to Centurylink, they could assign a block of numbers from that code, but your contract with the ILEC should have something in it to restrict the use to Osceola County's use only for the County's protection. You might want to check your contract or legal department.

....JIM....