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Compare Business VoIP Providers

SourceForge is the authority to compare top business and residential VoIP providers across price, features, reliability, support, quality, customer reviews, and more. Browse our providers and find your VoIP solution today!

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What is Business VoIP?

VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a newage phone system solution. Instead of using the traditional copper wires that make up the PSTN, VoIP utilizes your existing broadband connection in order to make and receive calls. To get started, all you need is a highspeed internet connection, a VoIPenabled telephone, and a VoIP service provider: that’s it!

History of VoIP

VoIP surfaced in the mid 90’s, and was a good way to avoid long distance and international calling charges. The first instance of VoIP started with a company called VocalTec in 1995. They made Internet phone accessible to users, who could then call other Internet phone users. As the years progressed, this humble beginning of a VoIP phone solution evolved alongside the Internet and became one of the preferred phone solutions for busine sses of all sizes.

Types of VoIP

There are many different types of VoIP available to businesses. From Hosted VoIP to Cloud Communications to Wholesale VoIP, there is definitely a solution that will meet your needs. One of the best things about a VoIP phone solution is that it is scalable and flexible, and can easily grow alongside your business. Plus, VoIP comes with different types of plans depending on your calling needs and usage.

How is VoIP Different Than a Traditional Phone System?

PSTN history

Traditionally, an old fashioned phone system was used to make or receive a call. The PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) was popular because it was the only way to make calls, and users suffered from high charges from long distance and international calling over copper wires. The days of the switchboard receptionist are long gone, but your POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) still uses telephone exchanges (circuit switches), telephone lines, cellular networks, and more to complete calls.

VoIP

Enter VoIP, also referenced as Voice over Internet Protocol. Instead of relying on traditional wires and switches to place your call, VoIP uses your existing broadband Internet connection in order to place a call. Simply put, your call is converted into voice packets, transferred over the Internet, and reassembled on the recipient’s end into analog audio signals (aka your voice). VoIP is a much more efficient, current, affordable, and viable option to your traditional phone network. In fact, Network World predicts that VoIP will (sooner than later) replace the PSTN in its entirety!

Mobility

With a VoIP phone system, you are more mobile than ever. A business VoIP solution offers flexible options to include users who work in remote offices or are constantly on the go. A majority of business VoIP providers offer free mobile apps for both iOS and Android to keep users connected to their contacts, features, and more within their VoIP phone system. Plus, VoIP presents users with features that help them no matter where they are. Things like call forwarding, find me/follow me, virtual extensions, and more are all catered towards keeping employees connected to their business and nested within the same phone system.

Unlimited and affordable calling

Business VoIP not only gives you the option to choose what type of VoIP is right for you, but also which plan is right for you. Some providers have specific plans for a specific limit of users, while others have a “one size fits all” plan. So before shopping for business VoIP, you should ask yourself: “What are my calling habits and where do I call to?” If you use your phone system sporadically, then a Pay As You Go or Metered Plan might be best, where you are charged perminute on the calls you make. If you’re constantly on the phone, then an Unlimited Plan is your best bet. Furthermore, some providers also offer international calling plans if you make calls overseas.

Calling with a VoIP Phone System

How does VoIP make calls

To boil it down simply: VoIP takes your phone call, converts it into data packets, pushes it through the Internet, and then reassembles these data packets on the receiving end into an audible voice call. It is an affordable technology that makes calling easy from any location where there is a highspeed internet connection.

How much do VoIP calls cost

Calling with a business VoIP phone system depends upon what type of plan you select. With a Metered or Pay As You Go plan, you will be charged a low perminute rate for calling. Unlimited plans will give you unlimited local and long distance calling within the United States and Canada (check with your provider for details and calling area). International plans will give you unlimited calling to select countries. And as always, onnetwork calling with your provider is free and included, regardless of location. This is one of the best perks about a business VoIP phone system.

International calling

With VoIP, you are no longer subjected to unreasonably high international calling rates. VoIP providers offer their customers low rates to international destinations, and sometimes even include a set number of international minutes for free! Plus, calling other users on the same VoIP provider network is always free, regardless of location!

Do I want a contract or no contract?

There are benefits to both. Choosing a longterm contract with your business VoIP provider can help you secure a cheaper rate per month,and can sometimes provide you with free equipment. A monthtomonth contract is more flexible and does not lock you into a specific service provider.

Do I need an unlimited plan or a pay as you go plan?

Your choice of plan depends on your business and your calling habits. If you use your phone infrequently, a Metered or Pay As You Go option may be a good option and may end up costing you little in the long run. If you are a regular caller, Unlimited plans are a great option, and are still very affordable.

What features are important to my business?

One of the biggest perks of choosing a business VoIP plan is that a number of call management and collaboration features are included. Ensure that the provider you choose has all the features that are important to your business. Features like call hold, call forwarding, conference calling, and more should all be on your list to make for a productive and efficient business phone system.

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