Business VoIP phone systems can help businesses large and small operate efficiently while employees work remotely and maintain the flexibility to grow in size. Some important factors, such as the basic definition and working model of a business phone system, should be clarified before choosing a VoIP system for your business, and this guide is designed to help.
What is a business VoIP phone?
A VoIP business phone is a type of phone that uses IP technology to transmit calls. It can be in the form of dedicated digital hardware or programs (running on a computer or mobile device) with the same functionality. A business VoIP phone first receives the sound you generate through your microphone and receiver and converts it into data packets. It then sends the data over the Internet. At the other end, the phone decompresses the data and plays it back for others to hear.
A business VoIP phone system is a technology that makes phone calls over an Internet connection instead of a regular landline or mobile network. It converts the analog voice signal over a broadband connection into a digital signal.
Once you have a high-speed Internet connection (including a router and modem), you can use VoIP. a business VoIP phone system can facilitate calls between other phones or with another phone company. It also offers other useful features such as voice mail, call forwarding, call recording, etc.
Why a VoIP Business Phone System?
A commercial VoIP phone system is the ideal solution for providing reliable phone service to employers and employees, with two major advantages.
Greater Efficiency
VoIP can enhance the workflow of your team through the concept of Unified Communications (UC). Your company's communication platform can be fully integrated without the need for multiple disparate applications. In addition, employees are no longer tied to their desks with VoIP phone systems. For remote employees, they can simply use the VoIP app on their smartphone to receive business calls. With these features, enterprise VoIP phone systems can dramatically improve the efficiency of working anywhere, anytime.
Reduce Costs
One way companies can realize significant cost savings is with a VoIP business phone system. VoIP networks have broadband connections that allow voice and data to be carried on the same channel without the additional local physical hardware and cabling required by traditional PBXs. In addition, VoIP calls are cheaper than public switched telephone networks (PSTN) or traditional circuit-switched telephone networks. VoIP phone systems for business services can also help cut other ongoing expenses, such as taxes, repairs and maintenance costs.
What equipment do I need for a VoIP phone system?
In addition to your existing Internet setup (including modems and routers), there are two new types of equipment you will need to invest in in order for your VoIP business phone system to work properly: VoIP phones and VoIP headsets.
VoIP phones
VoIP phones are an important device in a VoIP business phone system. They do not need to be connected to a different outlet than a landline and can use VoIP service providers to establish calls. If employees work remotely, they can use these phones from their offices or homes.
VoIP phone headsets
Another optional device for VoIP business phone systems is a headset. With a headset, employees can talk comfortably without having to pick up the phone or rely on the audio from the computer.
Frequently asked questions about enterprise VoIP phone systems
Q: Can I use my existing phone for VoIP?
A: Yes, you can use an existing phone in conjunction with VoIP through an analog telephone adapter (ATA), which provides additional features and functionality to the existing phone. In many cases, it may be more important to use a VoIP phone because it has native features that work with VoIP services.
Q: Should I give up my landline?
A: For most providers, you will need a leased line to receive broadband anyway, so you may have no choice but to keep it. If you have to call a number that VoIP can't provide, or use a feature that is only available through a landline, it may be worthwhile to keep the landline as a backup phone.
Q: Do I need a special modem or router to make VoIP calls?
A: No, you do not need to purchase a new modem or router for your VoIP business phone system. Once the VoIP application is downloaded to your device, you will be able to make and receive calls from that device. However, if your business' Internet connection is not stable enough, you may want to consider upgrading to ensure you have sufficient bandwidth.
Q: How much does a VoIP phone system cost? A: Commercial VoIP phone systems typically cost $20 to $40 per line per month. Depending on the number of users, commitment and features, your cost may be less or more. A decent IP phone starts at $70. The total cost of a business VoIP phone system should take into account phones, accessories, service and any one-time installation costs.