Everything You Need to Know About Switching to a VoIP Service

As technology is advancing, more and more people are switching to VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) solutions for their private and professional communication needs. But does that mark the end of the traditional telephone? Quite possibly; the cloud-based communication network of VoIP has proved to being more cost efficient and user-friendly than the regular landline. However, there are many who are still set in their ways and are skeptical about making the switch to VoIP. So if you’re considering making the switch but are still unsure, perhaps these facts about VoIP might come in handy:

Understanding How VoIP Works

To determine if VoIP solutions are a good fit for you and your business, you must first understand how it works.

VoIP, also known as Voice over Network (VoN) or Voice over Broadband (VoB), is a telephone system that is run on the Internet. It uses your current broadband connection to deliver phone services to you anywhere in the world. It works just like any other telephone line that you can make and receive calls with, and you can even choose your own number, such as a 1-800 Number for your business.

Switching to VoIP is also fairly easy as the interface of most VoIP service providers is user-friendly, and it comes along with a wide range of unique and customizable features that help you run your business on your terms.

With effortless installation and plans that suit your preferences, most top VoIP service providers offer great customer care so your switch to VoIP is seamless and successful.

Making the Switch

Now that you have a fairly clear idea of what VoIP solutions are and how they work, you can consider factors that will go into choosing the best VoIP service for you and your business. Make sure you reflect on the following before making the switch to avoid future complaints:

Check Your Internet Abilities

VoIP is a service that uses your internet connection to run so it’s essential that your internet bandwidth is strong for you to consider the switch. A standard VoIP network requires a minimum of 500Kbps bandwidth which isn’t a hard bargain.

In fact, it is a lot less than what you might be being offered currently. Nowadays, standard home internet connections offer up to 5 Mbps which can service almost 50 extensions run on VoIP. Even though high-speed internet is recommended for a seamless run, a bandwidth of as low as 500 Kbps is good to work up to 5 extensions.

Learn about your internet bandwidth and contact your service provider if it can be adjusted accordingly to accommodate your switch to VoIP services.

Decide on the Devices and Users

Your choice of a VoIP service provider will depend on your usage. Most standard plans offered by VoIP service providers include a connection to a desktop, a phone line and two smart phones or other devices.

This could be ideal for a residential network or a business that is run by a handful of individuals. However, if you’re a large-scale business or planning to scale up in the future, looking into customizable plans would be recommended.

Most VoIP service providers offer plans that can accommodate your usage and can be adjusted to any shifts or scaling in the business. Look for plans that are flexible to the changes in your business activity so your plan for growth is not hindered by extra charges or overhead costs. There’s an ideal VoIP service plan for everyone; you just have to find the one.

Find the Features You Need

One of the great benefits of VoIP services is that they come packed with several useful features that can elevate your calling experience.

From video conferencing to Online Faxing, VoIP has to offer over 40 state-of-the-art features. However, it depends on your business requirements which features are most essential for you and which ones you can do without. Sometimes, all a business needs is a handful of features to run smoothly; other times—especially when the business operates globally—features like video conferencing and access to a 1-800 Number can come in handy. Most of the top VoIP service providers offer customizable plans to their customers so you can easily configure which features you would like to use and which you don’t need. Keep in mind that most basic features like caller ID and Voicemail are offered with almost every standard plan but if you’re looking for something unique, you might have to upgrade to a more advanced plan.

Pick a Plan For Your Budgets

Perhaps the most evident reason why most people switch to VoIP is that it’s cost efficient. More so, the plans offered are adjustable to your business needs and budget, so you can find a plan that works.

Some plans start as low as $6.50 a month and have a range of payment options—monthly, quarterly or even annual subscriptions. What’s more, most top VoIP services come with a 30-day trial policy; so you can take your time to explore your options before you can make your final call.

It’s Time to Make the Switch

Once you’ve gathered all the information and researched your options, it’s time to make the switch! Make sure your business is as ready for the switch as you are in a few simple steps:

Get in touch with the VoIP service provider of your choice to discuss the plans and features available in your budget.
Cancel your current landline subscription.
Install the VoIP equipment to your handset and connect into your internet modem.
Download the VoIP service provider app on all devices and platforms that you’ll be using.
Start enjoying VoIP solutions!

If you’re having a hard time deciding on the right VoIP service provider, check out our Guides Archive to evaluate the top VoIP service providers and their features out there. You can also compare them against each other to get a fair idea of which provider fits you better than the other.