What is VoIP?

Voice over IP (VoIP) is a type of phone system that uses an internet connection, rather than a traditional phone line, to transmit voice traffic. One of the most popular reasons for choosing VoIP is cost savings: VoIP service plans are typically less expensive than traditional phone system costs, systems require minimal maintenance, and costs are assessed as a monthly rate only- no long distance charges are applied when you use a VoIP system. VoIP service provides standard features like voicemail, caller ID, and call waiting, as well as advanced features like video conferencing, call tracking, and online system management.

To use a VoIP system, you’ll need three things: A high-speed internet connection, a VoIP service plan, and phone equipment. Most residences and businesses already have a broadband internet connection fast enough to accommodate a VoIP system- typically a bandwidth of 90 kbps is sufficient. Finding a VoIP service plan is easy if you know what to look for- VoIP vendors design service plans to suit small companies, large corporations with multiple offices, households, and every type of user in between. Most companies will require that you use VoIP-compatible phone equipment- you can purchase VoIP phones or VoIP adaptors, or use the microphone and speakers connected to your computer to make calls. Many providers also allow you to access your VoIP service account at any location on certain mobile devices and cell phones.

How Do I Switch to VoIP Service?
Our free VoIP service comparison allows you to find the VoIP plan that’s the best fit for your business. We screen and review all providers to ensure that they match your requirements- you can compare price quotes and VoIP service plans easily, and find a provider whose plan offerings meet your budget.
Benefits of Using VoIP
Cost savings is the number-one reason most people switch from a traditional phone service to VoIP. The most basic VoIP service plans can be as little as $20/month for a standard phone plan that includes call waiting, unlimited minutes, and one phone line with several extensions. Larger companies or businesses can save big, too- using a VoIP service, you can virtually eliminate the equipment and maintenance charges that go along with owning a traditional on-site phone system.
VoIP service provides significant cost savings because calls are routed using an internet connection, not traditional phone lines. Since outgoing calls cannot be geographically located, there is no way to assess long distance charges. A call placed using computer/telephony integration will cost the same whether the destination is across the street or across the country- most users can save thousands or more in long distance charges alone.
Cost savings aren’t the only reason to make the switch. VoIP provides unique features, allows you to access calls from anywhere an internet connection is available, and provides valuable call tracking and system management features that can be easily accessed from a computer.