VoIP Phone System: Important Things To Know
Do you know what a VoIP phone system is?
If not, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
VoIP is a technology that has been around for a while but is still relatively unknown to the average person.
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and it refers to the way in which voice communication is transmitted over the Internet.
VoIP phone systems are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a number of benefits over traditional landline phone systems.
In this article, we will discuss what VoIP is, the difference between VoIP phones and traditional phone lines, the benefits of using a VoIP system and some of the features and capabilities that you can expect from a good quality system.
What is VoIP?
VoIP is a technology that has been around for over two decades and was first developed in the early 1990s.
It is based on the principle of transmitting voice communication over the internet instead of using a traditional phone line.
When you make a call using a VoIP phone system, your voice is converted into digital data packets which are then transmitted over the internet to the person you are calling, very much like an electronic envelope.
This allows much more information to be carried over the network to support and enhance your communication needs.
Some people use VoIP in addition to their traditional phone service since VoIP service providers usually offer lower rates, but sometimes don’t offer the same level of service.
So what are the main differences between VoIP phones and traditional phone lines?
What is the Difference Between a VoIP Phone System and a Traditional Phone Line?
The main difference between VoIP phones and traditional phone systems is that VoIP calls use the internet rather than a traditional phone network.
This means that VoIP calls can be made anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection.
It also means that there are no geographical restrictions on who you can call – you could potentially make a call to someone on the other side of the planet at no extra cost!
Another big difference between a VoIP phone system and landlines is VoIP is often much cheaper than making calls with a traditional landline.
Sometimes, you may even be able to make free calls to other VoIP users.
This is because the cost of making a VoIP call is shared between the caller and the recipient, rather than being billed to the caller alone like with a traditional phone line.
So What are the Benefits of Using a VoIP phone system?
Here are just a few:
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- Cheaper calls – as mentioned above, using a VoIP phone system can often be cheaper than using a traditional phone line.
- No geographical restrictions – you can make calls anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection, whether it’s just long distance or for international calls.
- Increased flexibility and mobility – since your VoIP phone service is delivered over the internet, you can use it from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. This makes it perfect for working remotely or travelling.
- Enhanced features and capabilities – VoIP phone systems come with a range of features and capabilities that are not available on traditional phone systems, such as the ability to make video calls, use conference calling facilities, and more.
VoIP Phone System Features and Capabilities
There are a number of features and capabilities that you can expect to find on a VoIP phone system. Below is a list of some of the most beneficial:
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- Caller ID – This allows you to see the number of the person calling you before you answer, which can be helpful for screening calls.
- Call waiting – This feature lets you know if there is another call waiting for you when you are already on a call. It will give you the option to put the first call on hold and answer the second one, or to ignore it altogether.
- Conference calling – This allows multiple people to join in a single conversation, making it perfect for business meetings or family gatherings.
- Voice mail – This function enables people to leave you a voice message when you’re unavailable. You can then listen to the messages at your convenience.
- Call forwarding – This feature allows you to redirect calls to another phone number, whether it’s a landline or mobile phone.
- Do not disturb – This function lets people know that you are not available to take any calls. It can be helpful if you need some time to focus on a task or if you’re going on vacation.
VoIP phones also offer a range of features and capabilities that aren’t available with traditional phones lines.
For example, many VoIP providers offer virtual assistant services that can help manage your calendar, set up appointments, and even answer basic questions.
Can a VoIP Phone System be Used for Hybrid Working?
As you can probably guess by now if you have made it this far, yes, it is possible to use your VoIP phone system for hybrid working.
Since calls are made over the internet, your team can be available to make or receive calls on the move, from home, or in the office as long as they have an internet connection.
VoIP doesn’t require expensive hardware either, so you have the ability to connect your laptop, mobile, or home PC to your VoIP phone.
This means that your team can work both in the office and from home using their VoIP phones, while others still work in the office using traditional landlines or mobiles.
There are a number of ways to set this up, so talk to your VoIP service provider about the best way to do it for your business.
So there you have it – everything you need to know about VoIP phone systems.
VoIP Phone Systems in Edinburgh
If you’re looking for a more affordable and flexible way to make and receive calls, then VoIP is the solution for you.
For businesses of all sizes, a VoIP phone system can offer tremendous benefits in terms of cost savings, efficiency, and flexibility.
Visit our telecoms page to find out more about how we can help your business make the switch to VoIP! Contact us today via phone, email, or submit a web form.