What is caller ID and how does it work on a landline phone?

Caller ID is a feature that allows a landline phone user to see the phone number of an incoming call on the phone's display before answering the call. This feature is helpful because it allows you to decide whether or not to answer the call based on who is calling.

Caller ID works by the phone company's equipment sending a signal to your phone that includes the caller's phone number. The signal is sent between the first and second ring, and the caller's phone number is displayed on the phone's screen before you pick up the phone.

To use Caller ID, you need a phone that supports the feature and a subscription to Caller ID service from your phone company. Some phone companies may charge extra for this service, while others include it as part of a package deal. If you have a phone with a display and Caller ID is activated on your account, the number and name of the person calling will show on the phone's display.