What does VoIP Mean and What Does it Do?

VoIP has taken the communications world by storm. However, if you’re still not sure about what VoIP is or what it does, the experts at Top 5 Business VoIP are here to clear all your confusion. Read on to find out about what VoIP means, what it does, and how it is relevant to you and your communication needs.

What does VoIP Stand For?

VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. Don’t be overwhelmed by the technical jargon, though; at its core, VOIP is a technology that uses your existing internet connection to transmit voice and multimedia signals across platforms. It’s an alternative phone network to the traditional landline system that uses PTSN to transfer calls from one point to another. With more and more people turning to cellular and broadband networks, VoIP has replaced traditional landlines as the more preferred communications solution for businesses.

What is the Difference Between VoIP and Traditional Phone Systems?

Traditional telephony requires a circuit-based transmission over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN); also known as the Plain Old Telephone System (POTS). With VoIP, your voice signals are broken down into small data packets that are transmitted via SIP Trunks over the World Wide Web. VoIP allows you to make and receive calls over the internet in record time. In addition, VoIP is compatible with online platforms which give you access to features like conference calling, voicemail to email, online faxing, etc.

In fact, VoIP has an abundance of features that are impossible to achieve through traditional phone lines. Because of this, it makes for an ideal telecommunication service for residences as well as businesses, which can benefit from its various features and save more money when compared to a landline network.

Here are some of the advantages VoIP has over traditional landlines:

Steady phone bills: With a VoIP monthly payment plan, you can have better control over your phone bills and get charged for exactly what you spent, unlike the volatile billing landline systems incur.

International calling is easier: Long-distance calls are a major win with VoIP. The cloud-based network treats local and international calls more or less the same, so you don’t have to worry about racking up phone bills next time you call internationally.
No hidden fees: All internal calls are free of charge and you’re offered unlimited minutes within the network. Some VoIP services even offer free international calls. So you never have to worry about hidden or additional charges.

What Do I Need to Make VoIP Calls?

The name might sound daunting, but the technology behind VoIP is simple and easy to use. There’re no expensive or complex widgets involved. In fact, you can set up the system and have it running in a matter of hours.

You can use your existing phone lines, desktop, and even mobile devices to make calls with VoIP. All you need to ensure is that you have an excellent internet connection, or else your call quality might suffer.

For businesses, the best way to benefit from VoIP services is through desktops. Install the software your provider recommends and enjoy communications via your computer! Many VoIP solutions can also be accessed via mobile phones by simply downloading an app.

Depending on your choice of VoIP provider, the preferred protocols may differ. Some prefer Analog Telephone Adapters, which are used to convert a regular phone into an IP phone, while others may suggest you purchase IP phones, which are built for the very purpose and can be plugged directly into your internet router.

Which Features Can I Expect from VoIP?

Everyone has their own communications needs, so their reason to switch to VoIP may vary. However, whether you’re running a business or looking for a telecommunication solution for your home network, there are certain features that will attract all users. For instance, the inexpensive long-distance calling option will serve businesses that operate globally and, at the same time, will be ideal for individuals who have loved ones living abroad. Here are some of the features that might sit well with your communication needs, business or residential:

Scalable:VoIP solutions grow with your needs. So if you ever plan to increase your usage, VoIP services will make it easier for you to spread your wings without breaking your budget.
International Calls:As discussed above, long-distance calling is a lot cheaper and easier than traditional phone lines.
Collaboration:With VoIP you can host virtual meetings with remote employees and associates, improving communication and collaboration.
Receptionist Tools:You won’t need a physical receptionist with VoIP. Features like auto-attendant, on-hold music, quick transfers, extension numbers, etc. can all be automated.
Office extras:Business activity can be monitored via analytics with features like voicemail transcriptions and online faxing.
Voicemail:With voicemail, you never have to miss any important calls, as all messages will be recorded and forwarded to your account when you’re not available to take the call.
Mobile:As VoIP networks can be accessed via mobile phones it gives your business and employees the opportunity to work remotely.
Integrations:VoIP solutions are compatible with CRM platforms like Salesforce, Microsoft, Google, Zendesk, Oracle Sales Cloud, etc.

Bottom Line: Do I Need VoIP?

VoIP has the upper hand on traditional telephony when it comes to catering to your specific communication needs. You’ve probably had some exposure to VoIP services in the form of Skype and FaceTime, so you know how useful VoIP solutions can be.

However, businesses need something stronger and more reliable than Skype. Therefore, we have made a comprehensive list of the Top VoIP Service Providers for businesses. You can compare the VoIP providers to find the best fit for your business.

An inexpensive, flexible, and rewarding communication solution is waiting for you, in the shape of VoIP than why waste time with traditional costly landlines? Make the switch to VoIP and say hello to the future of communications!