Tips to Switch From Your Business Landline Number to an IP Phone Number
A VoIP phone (VoIP Phone Number) is simply the numerical address assigned to you whenever you subscribe to a VoIP service. It is essentially the series of digits that you input on a dial pad to make an outgoing call, just like with regular landlines. However, unlike its more famous older counterpart, a VoIP telephone number can only be used to make calls from any compatible internet-enabled computer, including… you guessed it, your laptop!
In order to save on costs and maximize convenience, most people are using voip phone numbers across multiple devices. The beauty behind this is that you no longer need a dedicated adapter to use it with your laptop. Instead, all that’s needed is a regular adapter that connects your laptop to your home phone. And voip phone numbers are accepted across multiple devices with no problem at all. As long as you have an internet connection, you can use your home phone and your notebook just like you would with your regular one!
For those who run a business, having voip phone numbers across different devices is critical to keeping continuity in the business. For example, if you have employees in a number of states, each of them should have their own business telephone numbers. This will ensure that incoming calls are not routed incorrectly and that incoming calls are attended to as promptly as possible, whether the caller is a local client or a long-distance call. Many companies even provide alternate contact information for long-distance clients so that they don’t end up having to provide their business owner’s cell phone or landline number as the contact information for their customers.
Another key difference between voip phone numbers and regular phone lines is the availability of multiple phone numbers with this technology. In order to use a voip provider, all you have to do is purchase an appropriate adapter from your service provider and you can activate VoIP on your laptop, tablet computers, smartphones, and other eligible devices. You can then connect any number of devices to the same service as your primary line. The only requirement is that you have a high-speed Internet connection at your location. That’s all there is to this amazingly simple and cost-effective technology!
One thing to keep in mind when comparing services and packages offered by various voip phone number providers is how they categorize their services and features. Most providers will usually provide a standard set of features, which are differentiated by the provider. Your service provider may offer additional options, such as customizable PINs and call forwarding, that are exclusive to their package. Still other providers may provide additional features such as video conferencing or call waiting as part of a package deal.
Another option you have for setting up an IP phone system is to simply use an analog telephone. Analog phones are just that — regular, traditional (and old fashioned) phones that can be utilized with an internet service (VoIP). These types of phones are perfect for those who want the portability of an internet phone system without the price. An analog device is also a great choice if you already own and use a regular (or a pre-paid cell phone) and would like the ability to use it with an IP phone system. You can even use your regular (or old-fashioned) analog phone to connect with an IP network!
Many businesses offer voicemail with their VoIP services. Voicemail is basically a feature built into many business VoIP systems that allows you to store a record of your recent calls. You can then create an email with your favorite music and even have caller id options that allow you to block specific people from receiving your voicemail. This makes it easy to manage your business and the way you make calls, even if you’re away from the office.
Finally, many companies (including yours truly) offer virtual pbx (phone) numbers that can replace your landline numbers. These are extremely popular among small businesses, because they can give your customers an “intranet” access number that goes directly to your voice broadcasting server. If you decide to go this route for your VOIP system, you’ll want to seriously consider getting IP phone systems (even virtual pbx). You’ll not only find them to be more effective but also easier and less costly in the long run!
