By Emma Lewis, bOnline
VoIP is something of a buzzword these days. But why should you care, and what does it mean for small businesses in particular?
VoIP is short for Voice over Internet Protocol. It’s basically a technology that allows you to make phone calls using the internet instead of via traditional phone lines. Sound is sent over the internet in digital ‘packets’ which means all you really need is a stable internet connection (so Wifi, 4G or 5G).
If you’ve ever used Skype, Zoom or WhatsApp to make a call, you’ve actually used VoIP already. However, there are many VoIP service providers out there, and some – like bOnline – specialise solely in small businesses and start-ups for example.
How Does VoIP Work?
When you make a call using VoIP, your voice is converted into little packets of data. These packets travel over the internet, a bit like a webpage or email would, to the person on the other end of the line. Their device reassembles these packets into sound to make a conversation.
This process is usually so fast you won’t even notice it’s happening. But the result is reliable, clear voice communication that works just as well as (or often better than) traditional phone systems.
What Are The Advantages of VoIP?
There are plenty of VoIP advantages to be had (especially if you run a small business):
Protection From The Landline Shutdown
Landlines are gradually being phased out in the UK, with the process due for completion by the end of 2026. Known as the landline shutdown, it’s a huge change that will affect businesses and households alike. Don’t leave it too late to make the switch to VoIP.
Extra Call Handling Features
VoIP comes with a range of business-friendly features that traditional phone lines often can’t match. These tend to include things like video conferencing, sending files during calls, or integrating your calls with customer management software.
Saving Money
This is often the main reason people switch to VoIP. Traditional phone lines, especially for businesses, can be expensive. Calling abroad can also add up, especially when you factor in roaming charges. With VoIP, calls, especially international ones, you’re using the internet instead of paying for minutes on a phone line. Big money saved right there.
Flexibility
VoIP systems are extremely flexible; a bit like a mobile phone because they can be used from anywhere there’s an internet connection. You can also make calls from a number of different devices, including a VoIP phone, smartphone, tablet or laptop which is perfect for working remotely. Plus, if you’re running a business, VoIP systems can be customised with features like call forwarding, voicemail, hold music and access to call analytics data.
VoIP Systems Grow With Your Business
If you’re running a business and want to grow it fast, VoIP is the perfect answer. As you take on more staff or expand your premises, you no longer need to worry about paying for additional (expensive!) phone lines. You simply give your new employee the VoIP log on details and away they go. Plus, no engineers are needed to come out and install anything.
Portability
With VoIP, your number goes wherever you go (ideal for if you’re moving house or business premises). As long as you have an internet connection, you can make and receive calls from your existing number.
What Else Should I Bear In Mind When Considering VoIP?
Before deciding if VoIP is definitely for you, there are a few things to think about before making the leap. They include:
How Stable Your Internet Connection Is – As mentioned, VoIP needs a stable internet connection to work (we suggest fibre broadband where possible). If your internet goes down, so does your phone service. This might not be a big deal if you rarely lose internet, but it’s something to think about, especially if you live in an area where the internet coverage isn’t always reliable.
Power Cuts – Unlike traditional phones that can still work during a power failure, VoIP phones need electricity to keep going. This means if your power supply fails, so does your ability to make calls unless you have a backup power source.
Call Quality – While VoIP call quality is often excellent, again it’s dependent on your network coverage and internet speed. On a busy network, or with slower internet speeds, you may experience call drop outs, lag, or poor call quality.
Emergency Calls – With VoIP your number isn’t tied to a specific geographic location like it is with a landline. It’s therefore essential to make sure your VoIP provider has an emergency service option that can reliably relay your location.
How To Make The Decision
So, do you really need VoIP? We say that if you run a small business in the UK especially then yes, you likely need VoIP, not least because of the landline shutdown coming.
VoIP offers a professional communication system that means you can easily add features, scale as you grow, and save money on your phone bill; all while working on the move.
For larger companies too, VoIP is often a no-brainer. Whilst offering advanced features, it integrates with other digital tools and allows for easy scalability. Plus, the financial savings can be substantial when you’re dealing with a substantial number of phone lines.
Where Can I Find Out More About VoIP?
If you want to know more about VoIP digital phone systems and how to get one, there are plenty of great resources online. Additionally, the Ofcom website offers clear information about the impending landline changes and what they mean.
