As the influence of the internet continues to spread, more people than ever before are beginning to rely on VoIP. Despite this, there still needs to be more clarity about how this telecommunication system works.
So how does VoIP work? And what are some of the features that come with VoIP? Those looking to discover more about the answers to these questions are in the right place.
This guide will inform you about everything you need to know about how VoIP works. That way, you can decide whether or not it’s the right decision for you.
What Is VoIP and How Does It Work?
VoIP is an acronym that means Voice Over IP. It’s a method that allows people to call each other over the internet. In the past, landlines relied on analog audio signals for communicating on the phone. What VoIP does is it takes your analog audio signal and converts it into a digital signal.
Check out this guide to learn more about the scientific process behind how this works. This digital signal is then compressed and sent to the receiver. Once it’s decompressed, the digital receiver will be able to hear it.
Or, if they’re on an analog phone, the digital signal will be converted back into an analog signal. In this way, you can use your digital phone connection to talk to someone on a traditional landline.
Standard VoIP Features
Different VoIP providers will offer other services and features. Many of these features simply aren’t possible with landline phones. And while they can be different, there are generally some features that are considered standard. These include things like:
- Call recording
- Automated attendants
- Conference bridging
- Transcription from voicemail to email
- Web softphone
- Web portal with a chat function
However, these standard VoIP features are the tip of the iceberg. Certain providers, like SE Telecom, provide numerous other features. If you want to explore them in more detail, you can check out this resource for more information.
Related: Hosted Cloud Phone Systems
Advantages of VoIP
Many advantages come with a VoIP system. For starters, it’s more affordable than a landline. You can save a dramatic amount of money by switching to cost-effective phone services. Instead of paying for phone and internet, you’re now only paying for internet.
It also makes remote work more accessible. With VoIP, all your employees can stay connected over a corporate phone system. And, since one hundred forty million employees now work from home, this can be an enticing draw.
Next, it’s both more accessible and portable. You can decide who takes your calls. And you can take those calls anywhere your virtual phone goes.
Next, there’s scalability. With traditional phone services, you need to add more cables and jacks to add a new phone number. With VoIP, all you need to do is contact your provider. Lastly, there are far more features to fit the specific needs of all-sized teams.
Disadvantages of VoIP
Sadly, along with plenty of advantages, VoIP systems also come with some disadvantages you should be aware of. First, you need a reliable internet connection for VoIP to work.
That means you won’t have phone services if you lose contact due to an outage or something like that. You will also need a lot of bandwidth if you don’t want latency problems on your calls. Lastly, there are limited amounts of location tracking with VoIP.
While this might seem reasonable, it can be a problem when 911 services need to get involved. VoIP is much more challenging for emergency services to track down.
Related: 5 Critical Steps When Switching to VoIP – DON’T MESS UP!
VoIP Requirements
As we mentioned before, the most vital thing you will need with VoIP is a reliable internet connection. How much speed do you need? It’s generally recommended that you get rates over 100 Kbps for any VoIP device.
Next, you will need an instrument for the call. You have three options. First, a SIP phone that integrates with your IP network. Alternatively, you can use a softphone.
This is a VoIP app you can use on your laptop or cellular phone. Lastly, there are analog telephone adapters. These turn your traditional phones into VoIP devices that you can use.
Want to discover more about the benefits and features of a hosted VoIP? Read this guide to find out everything you need to know.
Related: VoIP vs. Landlines: How To Find the Best Phone System
How to Select the Right VoIP System
Finding the right VoIP system for your needs can be a challenge. We recommend taking things slowly and doing your research. See which VoIP providers in your area offer exceptional service.
Next, ensure that the VoIP system has all the features you require and want. Don’t compromise when it comes to these features. They can go a long way toward making your life easier. Lastly, make sure that your VoIP provider is upfront about their pricing.
If they’re giving you vague information when it comes to estimates, this should be viewed as a clear red flag. Instead, go with providers like SE Telecom that lay everything regarding price out on the table.
We here at SE Telecom can provide you with the perfect VoIP system. Read more about our company to find out how.
The Importance of VoIP
It ultimately doesn’t matter if your business is small or large; you can likely benefit from VoIP. These days every company is looking to save money. For many, VoIP represents a cost-effective way to cut telecom costs.
Not only that, but the flexibility, accessibility, and scalability make it easy to train others and expand as you see fit. We don’t blame businesses that are reluctant to make the switch to VoIP. But remember that it’s a decision that will ultimately end up saving you money in the long run.