What is Voice over Internet Protocol, aka VoIP?

words Al Woods

VoIP (Voice-over-Internet-Protocol) system, also called IP telephone, is a kind of business phone system which transmits calls over the internet instead of the conventional copper wires.

Because of that, they are easier and more versatile to use than PSTN (public switched telephone network) technology, which is commonly referred to as the traditional landline.

VoIP service is less expensive compared to landline-based alternatives. They as well provide a suite of more advanced features, such as text messaging, video conferencing, and automated attendants.

While it needs a high-speed data connection to work properly, by clicking here for the right provider, VoIP services can give your business more control over the customer experiences and communication programs.

VoIP

How VoIP Works

It works by converting voice into digital data and forwarding it through the internet connection via a router. VoIP allows normal phone calls through the internet with every option enjoyed by a business’s traditional PBX systems, including caller ID, conference calling, call forwarding, call waiting, and voicemail.

Plus, VoIP software integrates properly with computers as ‘softphones.’ The only requirement here is that they have audio and voice output/input capabilities.

Types

Every VoIP system uses similar basic mechanisms. The basic VoIP phone system is basically a software program that runs through internet providers to give you access to an online number through any device and from anywhere.

It works in the same way as Skype does. This is suitable for small organizations or individuals because it is an inexpensive and simple option to set up. So without further ado, here are the most common types of VoIP systems:

  • Cloud-based
  • On-premises

Local Call vs. Long Distance Call

Several VoIP providers provide services for free, usually only for calls. Your provider can allow you to choose a specific area code that is different from the place you currently live in. This also means individuals who call you can incur long-distance charges based on their service and are code.

Some VoIP providers as well charge for long-distance calls to the numbers outside your calling area, similar to traditional and existing wireline telephone services. Other providers will allow you to call from anywhere at a flat rate for several minutes.

Features

A vast of features are available with VoIP systems. Some are basic and gets automatically supplied, whereas other are very specific to certain sizes and types of businesses. Among the features that your VoIP system can come with include:

  • Automatic callback
  • Voice mail
  • Call detail records (CDR)
  • Integrated voice response (IVR)
  • Caller ID
  • Calling rules
  • Unified messaging

Benefits

Among the greatest benefits of VoIP systems is movement flexibility. Business calls can all be routed to anywhere you work since they are received through the internet. That basically means wherever you have a connection to the internet, you will be able to access the client.

VoIP systems can also integrate with other technologies, such as emails. This means voicemails will be transcribed to texts and get mailed to your inbox to give you an option of multitasking.

Final Say!

Switching to a VoIP system can as well enable you to save cash when it comes to communication services. International and long-distance calls are free in general with VoIP services. 

So work with the best provider as they use IP telephone to protect your investment in the existing telephone equipment, even when you have an analog telephone station.

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