VoIP stands for Voice over Internet protocol. In simple words, VoIP phone service means telephone service delivered over the Internet. It is different than traditional phone service than handsets and networks of copper wires. A VoIP phone system allows you to make calls from any Internet-connected computer, a headset, and a VoIP service provider.  Let’s understand the VoIP communication system in detail.

What is VoIP?

VoIP is the fundamental technology on which the VoIP phone system works. VoIP is a technology that converts voice signals into digital signals which then travels over the Internet. VoIP is also known by other names such as IP telephony, broadband phone service, Internet telephony, or broadband telephony.

How Does the VoIP Phone System Work?

The VoIP phone system uses an IP phone which connects to the VoIP service provider through the Internet. The IP phone converts voice signals into data packets that are sent to the VoIP service provider’s server. The VoIP service provider converts the data packets back into analog signals and sends them over the traditional phone network.

Different Ways to Use VoIP Phone System

There are two ways you can use VoIP phone service in your organization. The first method involves the use of the PBX system and other equipment set up. Once you have the setup ready, you can use IP Trunking to route calls through the Internet. This method allows you to take advantage of existing telecommunication equipment and processes.

If you do not have any business phone system in your office, you can go for Hosted PBX which is a complete phone solution in the cloud. In hosted PBX, answering, routing, messaging are managed by VoIP service providers directly.

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers that will make the VoIP phone service concept clear for you.

IS VoIP and Landline the Same?

The basic setup and technology between both are not much different. For example, the traditional phone system and VoIP phone system uses a microphone and speaker. In a traditional phone system, the analog air vibrations are turned into analogous electrical frequency. The speaker interprets the incoming voice signals and converts them into sound.

On the other hand, the IP phone converts sound into digital packets and send them over the Internet.  The primary difference between the two is the traditional phone system directly plugs into PSTN. The VoIP phone system needs a VoIP service provider to convert the digital signal into an analog signal and send it over the phone network. The traditional phone system uses the phone line while the VoIP phone system uses an Internet connection.

Can You Use VoIP on a Smartphone?

The smartphone uses a traditional phone network for communication and data. This does not mean you cannot use VoIP on a smartphone. To use VoIP on your smartphone, you will need an app from the service provider.  Since smartphones have Internet connectivity, you can use VoIP on your smartphone too.

Why VoIP Phone Systems are Popular?

A large number of businesses are switching to VoIP phone systems due to the various cost and technology advantages it offers.

Low-Cost Per Call

Traditional phone companies charge their customers for call duration. If your company has more outbound calls, you are more likely to have a huge phone bill.  VoIP phone system uses your internet connection to route data packets. If your company has subscribed for unlimited data connection, the VoIP calls would come cheap even if you make domestic long distance calls.

Service Mobility

Mobility is an important factor for businesses. If your company plans to change office location, shifting the traditional phone system can be a time consuming and expensive affair. With the VoIP phone system, things are more convenient. All you have to do is shift your IP phones to a new location and get an internet connection in new premises and you are ready to go. No more waiting for the transfer of numbers, setting up phone lines in new premises which can take a long time.

Versatile Features

VoIP is a modern technology that comes with a host of features like voicemail-to-text transcriptions, forwarding messages with a click of a button.

Do you’ve any questions about VoIP phone service?