By Emma Lewis, bOnline
With modern telco technology becoming ever more advanced, it’s never been easier or cheaper to stay connected thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). So what is VoIP?
VoIP has been around for a couple of decades now in some form, but is packed with more features (and is more reliable) than ever before. It basically allows you to make phone calls over the internet instead of relying on traditional phone lines, often for free.
If you’re looking for ways to cut your phone bill down to size or simply want a convenient way to connect with customers, family and friends, it’s well worth knowing how you can get free calls using VoIP.
How Does VoIP Work?
As mentioned, VoIP calls are made over the internet instead of through copper landlines. By converting voice signals into digital ‘packets’, VoIP can transmit calls through any internet-connected device, including your smartphone, tablet, laptop, PC, or even a dedicated VoIP phone.
You’ve actually already used VoIP if you’ve ever used apps like WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom. When you talk on a VoIP call, the sound is broken down into packets of data and sent over the internet, then reassembled at the other end. Because VoIP uses existing internet infrastructure, many VoIP services can offer free calling to other users on the same platform. This makes it the perfect alternative for both local and international calls.
Why Use VoIP for Free Calls?
There are quite a few benefits to using VoIP for calls, particularly if you’re looking to save money or talk to people in other countries. For example:
Free Calls on the Same Platform: Most VoIP services let you make free calls to anyone else using the same service. This is perfect for keeping in touch with anyone anywhere.
Free International Calling: With mobile phones or landlines, calling abroad can be expensive. Especially roaming charges! But with VoIP, you can often call abroad for free or for very low rates.
Enhanced Call Quality and Features: Many VoIP apps come with features like call menus and call divert, hold music, call recording, access to call analytics data and more. With internet speeds getting faster, the call quality is often much better than traditional phone calls.
Flexibility Across Devices: VoIP lets you make calls using a smartphone, laptop, tablet or desktop. As long as you have an internet connection (so Wifi, 4G or 5G) you’re ready to make calls.
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Are There Any Free VoIP Apps?
Free VoIP apps are great for getting started, as well as staying in touch with family and friends. However, they don’t come with the wide range of features that paid-for VoIP packages come with. These can be really important for business owners in particular. However, if you’re simply wanting to get free calls, here are some of the most popular ones:
One of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, WhatsApp offers free voice and video calls to other users. All you need is an internet connection and a smartphone. The app has a massive user base and calls are clear, making it easy to find friends and family who also use it.
Skype
Skype has been around for many years and is still a popular choice for free calls. You can make video calls, voice calls and even group calls for free to other Skype users. Skype also lets you call landline and mobile numbers, but charges apply for those calls.
Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is another very popular app that anyone with a Facebook account can use to make free voice and video calls to anyone else with a Facebook account. It’s good for staying connected with friends on the social platform at no cost.
How To Make The Most of Free VoIP Calls
- Stable Internet Connection: VoIP calls need a strong internet connection. For the best quality, use Wi-fi instead of mobile data whenever possible. A stable connection means less chance of buffering and disruptions, plus clearer audio.
- Update Your App: Regularly update your VoIP app so that it has the latest features, bug fixes and security patches. This can improve both the reliability and quality of your calls.
- Use Headphones or Earbuds: If you’re in a noisy environment or want privacy, using headphones can improve call quality and reduce background noise.
- Understand Data Usage: VoIP calls do use data, so if you’re not on Wi-fi, keep an eye on your data usage to avoid any expensive surprises. On average, a VoIP call can use between 0.5MB and 1.5MB per minute, depending on the app and call quality.
- Have a Backup Option for Emergencies: VoIP calls rely on the internet, so if you’re in an emergency without mobile data or Wi-fi, it’s best to have a backup way to make calls. This might be your mobile phone for example, or a landline. However, don’t forget landlines are soon to be switched off permanently.
It’s Easy To Stay Connected With VoIP
With a good VoIP app, you can stay connected for free, whether you’re calling across town or around the world. Paid for VoIP systems, like those offered by bOnline come with a lot more business-friendly features that make them a better choice for start-ups and SMEs in particular.
Switching to VoIP might seem like a bit of a headache, but the savings and convenience it’s well worth it. Plus of course, it saves you from worrying about the landline switch-off.
