A system and method are disclosed for operating a telephone to bypass
wireline telephone service. A system that incorporates teachings of the
present disclosure may include, for example, a housing component at least
partially defining a first and a second enclosure. The housing component
may be part of a Local Exchange Carrier Network Interface Device. In such
an embodiment, the first enclosure may represent a service provider
access portion, and the second enclosure may represent a customer access
portion. The system may also include a door coupled to the housing
component. The door may be capable of being releasably secured in a
closed position such that the door defines a portion of the first
enclosure. A cradle system formed to receive a wireless transceiving
device may be secured within the first enclosure in a manner allowing the
door to be releasably secured in the closed position. In some
embodiments, the system may also have a local power supply associated
with the cradle system and electrically coupled to a premises wiring
connection point. The local power supply may be able to provide a ring
voltage to the premises wiring connection point and to power a cradled
wireless transceiver.