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Landlines can now join smoke signals and carrier pigeons on the scrap heap of outdated communication devices - VOIP phones are the future. 

What Is a VOIP System?

What is a VOIP phoneWhat 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."

Who Is VOIP For?
  • 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.

 

1. 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. 

 

2. 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. 

 

3. 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. 

 

4. Advanced Features 

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management, call routing, video calls, call encryption, and so much more put VOIP systems miles ahead of their outdated predecessors. 

 

5. 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.

Compare The Best Business Phone Systems Now

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Hi

We are ready to process your application.

We just require a few more details.
Do you already have a telephone system?
Complete our short form. It only takes a minute
Our Partners
  • Better Comms (VOIP) Ltd
  • bOnline Limited
  • CommercialExperts.com
Our Products
  • Business Accountancy
  • Business Epos Systems
  • Business Telephone Systems
  • Commercial Waste Collection
  • Digital Marketing
  • Fleet Tracking
  • Invoice Finance
  • Merchant Accounts
  • Website Design

FAQs

Your 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 who 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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Cisco Review: How Its Products Could Benefit Your Business

Who Are Cisco?Cisco is a US-based technology company that specialises in IT services.  Their focus is on networking products and services, and they've been providing businesses with network solutions for almost 40 years. What Services Does Cisco Provide?As one of the biggest technology companies in the world, Cisco has an extensive selection of products and services including: NetworkingWireless communicationsVoIP communicationSecurity This review will explore each of the above services and assess how they could benefit your business. Cisco's key features are listed below:NetworkingCisco provides businesses like yours with a fast and secure network, allowing you to stay competitive in your industry and remain safe while doing so. With their network services, your business should be able to communicate more effectively; finding it easier to share resources and collaborate with team members. Cisco's built-in support also means you are covered should anything go wrong.  In offering both cloud-managed and on-premises routers, your network can work in a way that suits your business, too. Businesses with between 10 and 500 people would best suit a cloud-managed router and, if you're a small office-based or hospitality business, the Meraki Go GX20 could be ideal for you. Wireless CommunicationThe modern world puts extra demands on businesses and their employees to communicate effectively from wherever they may find themselves.  Cisco strives to make this kind of communication easier than it has ever been. With their collaboration services, your business will be able to enjoy reliable video conferencing, real-time project management, and easy file sharing from multiple devices.  If yours is a business that could benefit from an easier method of communication to boost productivity, the services Cisco is able to provide could prove invaluable for your business. VoIP CommunicationWith over 100 million VoIP phones sold, Cisco is a market leader when it comes to modern communication. Its latest range of phones ensures your business is able to keep up with the latest technological standards.  With VoIP products that range from desk phones to portable headsets, Cisco could be the answer to your communication needs. If you're looking to connect a whole team across multiple locations or chat with clients via a video link, Cisco has you covered.  With several phones on offer, you should take a look yourself to determine the phone your business would most benefit from but, given the range of phones available, there's probably a phone to suit your needs.SecurityOne of Cisco's specialities is cyber security, which is also one of the main priorities of many businesses and, in providing comprehensive security services with things like cloud security, password security, and firewalls, Cisco make themselves a good choice for businesses looking to improve their security. Their cloud security, called the Cisco Umbrella, surrounds your network with a defence that detects, stops, and eliminates threats without allowing them to slow your network down. Similarly, Cisco Duo, their password security service, means you can establish both user and device trust, while their range of firewalls can protect your IT systems against advanced threats. If it's a secure IT system you need, Cisco is a company that can provide you with one. With years of experience providing security to businesses like yours, you're likely to find what you need from Cisco. How Much Does Cisco Cost?As a company that provides several services and products to businesses of all descriptions, Cisco charges different prices for each of its products.  Most of Cisco's products come with several price points. Its firewall range, for example, has products that range from entry-level to highly advanced systems. The product that will most suit you will depend on the size, scope, and requirements of your business. It's therefore recommended that you research what's available. 

Hardphone & Softphone VoIP Systems

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Poly Review: The Door To Better Communication For Your Business?

What is Poly?Previously called Polycom, Poly is an American multinational corporation that develops video, voice, and content collaboration and communication technology.  Founded in 1990, the company has over 30 years in the industry and is one of the most popular providers of communication technology. What Products Does Poly Offer Businesses?Much of what Poly provides is centred around improving and easing communication within businesses and organisations; from audio to video products, it has an extensive range of products including: Audio conferencing speakerphonesContent sharingVideo conferencingHeadsetsVoIP phones This review will take a look at all of the above products and assess how they might work for your business. Poly's range of products are listed below: Poly Audio Conferencing SpeakerphonesPoly's audio conferencing speakerphones are designed to make sure everyone in a room can hear and be heard. With their Audio Conferencing devices, each of your team members will be able to have their ideas heard, improving communication and encouraging the development of ideas.   There's also a large range of speakerphones that offer different features to suit your needs and, more importantly, suit most budgets. With speakers that range from £125 to over £900, there's a good chance that there will be a system to suit the needs of your business. Poly Video ConferencingPoly's video conferencing gives your businesses an extra layer of freedom. Your employees can have the flexibility to discuss, brainstorm, and collaborate from wherever they are and, with the advantage of video, they can also do face-to-face meetings.  They also have options to suit a range of needs, whether it be conferencing for boardrooms, personal webcams, or mobile devices. As is the case with its audio conferencing tools, there is a range of price points on offer; ranging from less than £100 to more than £7000. The range of options means you're likely to be able to find something to suit your budget. Poly HeadsetsMany people now work away from their desks or out of the office, meaning they need to be able to work without being tied down. Poly provides workers like this with the means to make the most of the modern work environment.  With wireless headsets that give you absolute freedom, USB headsets with simple connectivity, and contact centre headsets built for high-quality audio, Poly's range of headsets can ensure your staff can communicate effectively with whomever they need to. Many of their headsets are also designed to tune out any surrounding distractions, further easing your staff's working life. Poly VoIP PhonesVoIP phones are fast becoming the most common type of phone in both households and businesses and, soon, they will be the only way to communicate over the phone. If you need to upgrade your phone systems, Poly could be a great option. They provide businesses like yours with modern, efficient phones to improve lines of communication. Whether you spend your time phoning clients or communicating internally, the VoIP phones provided by Poly can provide you with what you need. All of the phones in their range come with built-in displays to improve ease of use and, with a large number of phones available, you should be able to find one that suits your business. How Much Does Poly Equipment Cost?Poly provides a large selection of products and services, some of which are designed for more established businesses and so come with a higher price tag. However, not all of its products are aimed at businesses like this. There is also equipment in their range that, while not being highly advanced, will suit businesses with tighter budgets. If you run a small business and think Poly could improve the way you communicate either internally or externally, there will likely be something within your budget.