What Is VoIP? 

Landlines can now join smoke signals and carrier pigeons on the scrap heap of outdated communication devices - VoIP phones are the future. 

 

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What Is a VoIP System?

What is a VoIP phone? What does VoIP stand for? And why should upgrading to VoIP phones be at the top of your priorities if you're serious about success? 

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a phone system that uses an internet connection to make and receive phone calls. 

These can come in physical, traditional-style phones perfect for desk-bound office workers. These are known as "VoIP phones" or "IP hardphones." 

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Who Is VoIP For?

No matter your size or industry, VoIP is perfect for you. 

Small Businesses

Small businesses can benefit from VoIP's cost-effectiveness and flexibility and, if your business is looking to expand in the future, it's easy to scale. 

A local area code can also be added to your phone number, so your clients will know you are based in the area.  

Larger Businesses 

VoIP can centralise your communication by integrating into current systems like email, which can help improve communication between multiple locations, remote workers, and international offices.  

International Businesses 

Because VoIP phones can make international calls without incurring high costs, partners, clients, or customers can be contacted affordably, whether they're in Bournemouth, Budapest, or Bangkok.

Why Is VoIP Better Than Traditional Phone Services?

VoIP phones aren't just internet-connected versions of regular landlines; they're an improvement in every way.

Cheaper 

Because you don't require specialised equipment and you're using an already established internet connection, you can wave bye-bye to hardware and installation costs and expensive international phone calls. 

Superior Sound Quality 

VoIP phones sound noticeably better than regular phones; in fact, they are twice as clear, and they can connect to additional hardware, like headsets, to elevate the quality even further. 

Increased Flexibility 

By installing VoIP software on your mobile devices, you can turn them into VoIP mobile phones, freeing you from the need to sit at your desk during crucial business calls. 

You can even seamlessly switch the call from a desk phone to a mobile phone so that no matter where you are, you are able to keep essential communication flowing. 

Advanced Features 

Voicemail management, call routing, video calls, call encryption, and so much more put VoIP systems miles ahead of their outdated predecessors. 

Simple to Set Up & Use

If your staff already know how to use a standard landline, then congratulations! They're now fully trained on how to use a physical VoIP phone.

If you require new VoIP-compatible hardware, setup can often be as simple as just plugging it in and connecting it to the internet. 

Software versions are also pretty intuitive, so you won't have to waste valuable hours training your staff on what to do if their VoIP phone rings. 

Softphone vs Physical VoIP Phone

When it comes to VoIP systems, you have two choices, a softphone or a physical "VoIP phone."

Softphone 

Softphone VoIP systems use an app or user interface on a laptop or mobile device to simulate the look, feel, and functionality of a traditional phone. 

WhatsApp and Telegram are examples of softphone VoIP software you may already use in your everyday life. 

These will often come with the ability to: 

  • Conference call 
  • Video call 
  • Send/receive files 
  • Manage voicemail 
  • Instant message 

Physical VoIP Phone 

These are physical phones that are similar in style to traditional landlines, except they use the internet to make and receive calls. 

These can be scaled easily, and more advanced models come equipped with a larger number of features not found on cheaper models. 

 

 

Hardphone

Softphone

User Interface

Physical buttons and interface like traditional phones. More sophisticated systems may come with a touchscreen and digital UI.

Mimics the layout of physical phones but with software. 

 

Also come with the ability to work with a keyboard and mouse.

Portability

Hardphones aren't portable and are more suited for desk-based use.

Can be used on mobile devices making them extremely portable.

Cost

More expensive as they require hardware installations.

Less expensive as there is no new hardware that needs to be installed.

Ease-Of-Use

Simple to use for most people as they are similar to traditional phone systems.

Users of other softphone software will find them simple while others may require training.

Reliability

Powered by ethernet cables making them very reliable.

Mostly reliable but more susceptible to technical issues due to their lack of physical connection.

 

 

Get Your Bespoke VoIP Quotes!

Now that you're a VoIP expert, there's only one thing left to do - find the best VoIP provider for you. 

Whether you're new to VoIP or just looking for a better deal, we can help.

All you have to do is answer a few quick questions about your business then, based on your responses, we will source a range of tailored, non-committal VoIP quotes completely free of charge. 

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FAQs: Your VoIP Questions Answered


VoIP uses an internet connection (instead of the copper wiring that powers traditional landlines) to make and receive calls. 

How a VoIP phone is able to do this can be broken down into four steps: 

  • Your VoIP phone connects to your internet connection. 
  • Your VoIP phone then converts these digital signals back into sound. 
  • They then establish and connect the call using data packets. 
  • When you make a call, your system tells your VoIP service provider to call the other party. 

VoIP comes with loads of great benefits not found on more traditional types of phones. 

Cost 
Because it uses an established internet connection, you can avoid expensive international calls and may not even need any additional hardware, making VoIP an affordable option for many businesses. 

Flexibility 

VoIP can be used on mobile devices, allowing you to make calls from anywhere, making it perfect for remote workers or staff that travel often. 

Extra Features
Conference calls, video meetings, SMS capabilities, call routing, and call encryption are all advanced features found with VoIP.

Integrations 
VoIP can easily integrate with other software your business may already use, such as email, instant messaging, and collaboration tools, centralising all of your communications. 

Simplicity 
Some systems are as easy to set up as just plugging them in or installing them on your device(s) of choice, connecting them to the internet, and you're good to go. 

VoIP doesn't need any specialised equipment to work. Your computer, mobile, or tablet and a reliable internet connection are often all you need to utilise VoIP technology.

Because you're using an already established internet connection, this avoids any expensive hardware installation costs.

The same internet connection also allows you to make international calls at a much cheaper rate than you would typically find with more traditional styles of phones. 

While some parts of the UK have already been switched over, The whole of the UK will be required to switch over to VoIP systems by the end of 2025. 

This means that all households and businesses in the UK need to make the switch as soon as possible. The earlier you prepare for the change, the less likely you are to be negatively affected.


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