What does VoIP Mean and What Does it Do?

You might have heard the term VoIP bandied around, and never been quite sure what it is, or why it should matter to you. Wonder no more! We’re here to explain exactly what VoIP means, what VoIP stands for, and how it can make your life a whole lot easier.

What does VoIP Stand For?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol, but for many people that means about as much as its shortened form. Simply put, VoIP is a way to send voice calls and messages over the Internet. It replaces the traditional phone systems, which includes landlines for residential homes and even large Public Branch Exchange (PBX) systems for business use. Over the past decade, VoIP has got increasingly popular. In many cases, it has replaced traditional telephony altogether.

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What is the Difference Between VoIP and Traditional Phone Systems?

Traditional phone lines use circuit based protocols over the Public Switched Telephone Network, or PSTN. Some people call this POTS, or Plain Old Telephone System. VoIP takes your analogue voice signals, and converts them into digital data packets, transmitting conversations in real time over Internet Protocol. You can now make all your voice calls over the internet. Not only this, but VoIP can integrate with other online systems, allowing you to add conference calling, voice to email capabilities and more.

VoIP has more features than traditional telephones will ever have, so if you’re running a business for example – it’s a no brainer. However, it’s also a great option for residential communication, as both businesses and individuals can save a lot of money over a landline phone.

Control over your phone bill: If you choose your monthly rate, you know exactly what you’re spending. No surprises at the end of the month.

Better international access: For calls abroad, VoIP is unbeatable on price. Say goodbye to the idea of ‘long-distance’ calls.
No hidden fees: All calls within the network are free, and minutes are transparent. Even calls abroad can be free, depending on your provider.

What Do I Need to Make VoIP Calls?

You might think that you will need a lot of expensive or complicated hardware to get started with VoIP. This could not be further from the truth. In fact, most people can begin using VoIP in a matter of hours. Even for a business, there is nothing stopping you using VoIP through your desktop computer or mobile apps built for this purpose. Here’s what you need to know.

No matter what you choose, you will need high quality Broadband. Your internet connection is essential in making sure that you get good Quality of Service.

The simplest way to enjoy VoIP is via your computer. Many providers offer software which allows you to install it in minutes, and then start using VoIP to call others. This is also true via some mobile phone apps, provided by top VoIP companies.

The solution may vary between companies. Some might want you to use an Analog Telephone Adapter, which is used to change a regular phone into an IP phone, while others might encourage you to buy new phones which are IP phones with immediate VoIP capabilities. These connect directly to your router.

Which Features Can I Expect from VoIP?

Whether you’re a business or an individual, there will be different reasons for you to make the change to a VoIP solution. If you’re a business, you might be interested in the integrations with productivity and office tools. As an individual or a family member, you might want free or reduced international calls, or a better solution for voicemail. Take a look at some of these, and see which speak to you.

Scalable: You can choose what kind of package you want, starting small and then adding phones as necessary, or increasing your coverage.
International Calls: Do you make a lot of expensive calls for business or family abroad? VoIP will be far more affordable than a regular landline.
Collaboration: Like a PBX, VoIP can allow team members in separate offices or even countries to speak and communicate seamlessly.
Receptionist Tools: Think auto-attendant capabilities. On hold music, quick transfers, extension numbers, etc.
Office extras: Streamline your business with voicemail to email, web conferencing and more.
Voicemail: Never worry about missing a call. Many VoIP providers allow messages to be forwarded to you wherever you are, on any device.
Mobile: For business, this may encourage you to allow your staff to work remotely, while for mobile – it means cheaper calls to anyone, anywhere. Mobile apps have taken VoIP to the next level.
Integrations: Enjoy seamless integrations with other apps such as Salesforce, Microsoft, Google, Zendesk, Oracle Sales Cloud, and more.

Bottom Line: Do I Need VoIP?

There are dozens of reasons why VoIP might be the right choice for your family or business needs. It’s certainly the future of the way we communicate. Less professional options like FaceTime or Skype have already shown us how exciting the potential of VoIP can be. Our experts have looked through the biggest names in VoIP services, and highlighted which ones are perfect for which situation.

As the world becomes more connected, why would you continue to rely on the expensive and old fashioned POTS? Instead, look to the future and embrace streamlined communication, cheaper monthly bills and added functionality for your business or home.