Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), technology that lets you make and receive phone calls over the Internet, may have started out as a novelty, but it’s quickly becoming mainstream – and many small businesses are finding that it can save them a lot of cash.
Benefits
- Features. VoIP has the same features as conventional phone service: multiple lines, conference calling, and voice mail, to name just a few.
- Cost. VoIP costs much less than conventional phone service, and most VoIP services charge a flat monthly fee, so bills are predictable.
- Simplicity. Calls are routed through the same network you use for e-mail and Internet access, so one system serves all functions.
- Mobility. You won’t need separate office and cell phone numbers: You can receive calls on your laptop or so-called “IP” phone while traveling, essentially taking your entire business phone system with you wherever you go.
Some things to consider
- Audio quality still isn’t perfect, but you can make VoIP calls with regular phones or IP phones with little difference in quality.
- Depending on the number of employees you have and how many are on the phone at once, you might need higher bandwidth (such as a T1 line) to handle VoIP.
- You may want to keep a conventional phone line—primarily as a backup, but also to ensure that you’re listed in the local phone book.
More information
VoIP is integrated with your existing IT system, so contact us today for details about how you can get started enjoying its benefits.
