How do I choose a VoIP provider

Are you on the hunt for a modern phone system or solution for your home or workplace to replace the archaic wired phone lines? At that, a cost-effective one? Well, Voice over Internet Protocol (or VoIP for short) is the best modern and commonly used communication system which capitalizes on the power and speed of the internet as well as software integration to send data.

VoIP is a key part of any Business Telephone System. While the traditional telephone lines are still very much popular and stand as a competition to VoIP communication system, many homes, businesses, and individuals are going wireless. Likewise, people are getting enlightened about the numerous edges VoIP has over landlines and are looking to adopt the technology.

What are VoIP Providers?

Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) software uses an IP network to transmit phone calls seamlessly without the need to connect to an extra telephone network. It is a modern form of PBX (private box exchange, or private branch exchange), a broad term for private telephone networks within organizations. VoIP providers can offer different types of PBX, including hosted PBX, virtual PBX, and cloud PBX. The differences between each of these options is minimal, with each form defined by the amount of user maintenance required for use.

The hardware required for a given VoIP solution can vary; some providers require clients to use their specific phone system, while others may be used with any type of proprietary VoIP phone. Other VoIP providers allow users to make calls using their personal cell phone, a solution called softphone, either in addition to or instead of a traditional PBX.

VoIP capability can be featured in other types of communication software. The voice component in video conferencing software is provided by VoIP. However, VoIP providers offer internet-based call connectivity without requiring the use of video messaging services or other outlets. VoIP is a mainstay of UCaaS software and contact center infrastructure software. Many UCaaS solutions include both softphone and PBX solutions within their offerings.

To qualify for inclusion in the VoIP category, a product must:

Provide VoIP PBX systems for businesses and/or offer a VoIP softphone application

Offer necessary hardware, should a solution require it

Include features that assist in regulating incoming calls

How do I choose a VoIP provider?

Device-to-Device – This form of VoIP uses your device’s microphone and speakers and is usually used on an instant messenger service.

Device-to-telephone network – This is when the caller uses his or her internet-enabled device to call a landline or mobile number.

Telephone network-to-telephone network – With this type of service, the caller uses an adaptor to make VoIP calls from a normal landline telephone.

VoIP phone-to-telephone network – This is when the phone itself is IP enabled and so there is no need for an adaptor.