The Federal Communications Commission took a baby step forward in Voice over Internet Protocol regulation today, by ruling that the Free World Dialup service was not subject to traditional voice-service regulations.

While proponents of VoIP were quick to hail the decision as a move toward keeping the technology free of regulation, FCC chairman Michael Powell and other commissioners made it clear that more-robust VoIP services that connect to the circuit-switched voice networks may be subject to the regulations and fees imposed on existing voice services.

"While IP-enabled services should remain free from traditional monopoly regulation, rules designed to ensure law enforcement access, universal service, disability access, and emergency 911 service can and should be preserved in the new architecture," said Powell in a statement.