VoIP systems use software or an app to connect calls via the internet. They’re great for hybrid and remote working and can be accessed from any device with a data network connection.
Most VoIP solutions include:
- IP PBX tools.
- Quality management software.
- Gateways for linking networks.
- Location-tracking databases for E911 call routing.
Read on to learn more about how these technologies work and their business benefits.
Cloud telephony
Cloud-based VoIP systems are a great option for businesses that require remote work flexibility. They offer scalability and make adding new employees seamless. It makes them a cost-effective solution for companies that are expanding quickly. In 2023, an internet phone provider will emphasize providing intuitive user interfaces and streamlined setup procedures. These improvements will also boost audio quality and allow the system to integrate with unified communications tools.
Unified communications
VoIP works through your Internet connection, bypassing traditional copper wires. It converts voice into small data packets that your office IP phones or a software-based VoIP app send through the network. These data packets are then forwarded to a VoIP service provider, who processes the call and delivers it to the other party over their network. Your VoIP phone uses special hardware or software to turn those data packets into audio you can hear. VoIP also offers more advanced business features like a virtual receptionist, auto-dialer, call forwarding, conference calling and more. It’s scalable so that you can add new lines or international locations quickly and easily. It contrasts with a traditional landline requiring you to pay for dedicated lines.
Voice over Wi-Fi
Voice over Wi-Fi, or VoIP, lets businesses make and receive business calls on any device with an internet connection. It includes laptops, tablets, regular smartphones (with an app), and a standard office phone set connected to a compatible VoIP hardware adapter. VoIP relies on a reliable high-speed internet connection to work, unlike traditional copper wire telephone networks. If a power outage or natural disaster interrupts your company’s internet service, your VoIP network will fail. However, an LTE cellular connection can back up VoIP solutions, and some providers offer VoIP calling over both Wi-Fi and cellular. It allows for mobility and helps keep costs down for businesses that require employees to travel or be on the go.
Video conferencing
As businesses become increasingly global, they need solutions that improve collaboration with their remote teams. VoIP helps them achieve this by enabling video calls with HD voice and web conferencing. A phone call begins when Alice picks up her VoIP-enabled handset and dials Bob’s number. Then several processes occur to deliver Alice’s words to Bob:
- Establishing a connection.
- Digitizing the analog voice signal.
- Encoding the digital information.
- Transporting the data packets over specialized networking protocols.
The network also uses media delivery protocols that optimize audio and video streams of different applications. As a result, they can transfer audio and video more efficiently than traditional circuit-switched telephone networks.
Voice over Internet Protocol
VoIP technology lets you make phone calls online rather than through a traditional landline. It’s also a popular choice for businesses to cut costs and increase productivity by implementing new features like Unified Communications (UC), virtual receptionist, call recording, etc. It would help to have a reliable internet connection with low latency and high bandwidth to use VoIP. Otherwise, you might need better audio quality or network congestion. The best way to avoid these issues is to have a good backup plan, such as a battery-backed device that can run for several hours in case of a power outage or network disruption.