Voice over Internet Protocol, also known as VOIP, is a telecommunications innovation that allows users to make voice calls over the internet. Unlike traditional phone lines, which send audio over public switched telephone networks (PSTN), VoIP sends data over IP networks. As a result, as long as there is an internet connection, it can be accessed from anywhere. This mobility and flexibility of VOIP technology distinguish it from traditional telecommunications. In order to choose the best business VoIP phone system, you need to know what your communication requirements are. For this, you should be prepared to answer the following questions:
- What type of business phone number does the company require?
- Is it necessary to have a toll-free number, a local number, an international number, or a combination of the three?
- Is your company making a lot of outbound calls?
- Do you get a lot of inbound calls at your company? Are you in need of a call routing solution?
- Do you have more than one location?
- Do you have a mobile workforce?
- Do you have any remote or telecommuting employees?
Once you have identified your operational needs, you can start to look for the best VoIP service provider that can meet them. You need to check the different Voip phone companies capable of meeting your business communications needs.
VoIP-only service providers
There are VOIP companies that specialize solely in providing telephony services to businesses and consumers. This may include some basic features such as voicemail, call forwarding, and caller ID, but it usually does not include call management features. If you only need phone calling capabilities and nothing else, these providers may already be on your radar.
VoIP companies with providers of cloud phone systems
Some providers make use of the cloud by combining VoIP and cloud PBX technology. These cloud-based phone systems use VoIP as their telephony component, which is combined with the advanced routing capabilities of a hosted PBX. Aside from the ability to make and receive calls over the internet, these providers provide call management features for businesses such as an auto attendant, answering rules, and virtual extensions for departments and individuals.
VoIP as a component of the providers of unified communications solutions
These are VoIP-like service providers that combine different communications tools, like VoIP, cloud PBX, online meetings, and team messaging, into one platform. They provide a central hub of communication for the businesses, instead of having them use different vendors for different communication tools. It is one of the best options to address the most communication needs while improving efficiency by combining solutions on one platform.
One should consider the long-term goals, budget, and reputation of the service provider when choosing the best business VoIP service to meet their needs.