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VoIP is Voice over Internet Protocol, a standard method for making phone calls using a data connection instead of a traditional phone line.  To use VoIP you need a phone system device on your network, as well an IP-capable phone. A business-grade broadband connection is also required – you can use an analogue or digital phone over a traditional phone connection, but a VoIP solution requires a data connection. Fortunately, a VoIP solution can often utilize the same data connection your business requires for internet connectivity.

 

VoIP works by translating voice traffic to data packets and sending them over a data connection just like any other data. To ensure that voice is always clear, most VoIP solutions utilize some type of Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize voice traffic over data traffic if they are both traveling on the same line. QoS slows regular data traffic when voice is being utilized to ensure call quality remains high.

 

VoIP surpasses traditional phone system solutions in two main areas: cost and customization. Traditional phone solutions need dedicated lines, costly licenses, and must be serviced by an expensive technician when any changes to the phone system must be made, like moving a line or setting up a new voicemail box.

 

VoIP solutions, on the other hand, don’t need expensive licenses, can typically be serviced by onsite IT staff, and utilize the same data connection as your internet connectivity, so there is no need for an additional dedicated line.

 

Aside from cost savings, VoIP solutions also integrate easily with your existing computers and technology. Voicemail messages can be emailed, caller-ID can usually integrate with your CRM system, and the VoIP phones can be managed like other pieces of existing network hardware, making them easy to move, reassign, or configure without specialized phone technicians.

 

For remote workers, VoIP can be a much better solution than a traditional phone line. Some VoIP solutions offer “remote phone” capability. A worker with a configured phone can take the phone anywhere in the world, plug it into a data connection, and the phone will ring when the number is called, regardless of where the phone is. This functionality is essentially “plug-and-play” and hassle-free compared to traditional phones.

 

Although a VoIP system is usually a better fit for most businesses than traditional phone systems because of the reduced costs and higher manageability, there are some things to keep in mind when considering a VoIP phone system.

 

Because VoIP phone systems utilize your existing data lines, you need internet connectivity to receive phone calls. The chances of a redundant connection going down are slim to none, but this is still an issue to consider.

 

Power is a concern, too. Most traditional phones will function even if the power is out. VoIP systems will not, since the phones require power to function. However, this can also be overcome by proper planning. Most VoIP phones utilize Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, which means that they draw their power through their data connection and need no additional power. Essentially, this means they draw power from network hardware. Since most quality networks are designed with battery backup in the event of a power outage, VoIP phones should still function even in the event of a power outage.

 

The last item to keep in mind with a VoIP solution is emergency response. Although most 911 call centers have the proper equipment and training needed to send emergency responders to the right address in the event of an emergency, some do not. This is rarely an issue, but something to be aware of when considering a VoIP solution. Please check with your carrier to find out the E911 servicing for your area and location.

 

Overall, VoIP solutions are a great value – they cut costs and offer more flexibility. They integrate with existing network hardware and can make remote working much easier. If you’re considering a VoIP solution, please contact us to learn more.