Businesses need call management features to boost productivity and provide excellent customer service. These include call queues, smart routing, and forwarding.
VoIP piggybacks on your existing infrastructure, so most users only need a reliable internet connection with a modem and router. You’ll also need an analog telephone adapter or ATA, which functions as the hardware interface between the digital VoIP line and the system of analog PSTN phones.
Modem
A modem is a device that converts analog signals into digital data packets to connect you to the internet. It’s an essential piece of VoIP equipment for your business because it ensures high-quality call quality and stable connectivity. It also allows you to take advantage of other features offered by VoIP services, like call recording, call analytics, and voicemail transcription.
The type of VoIP equipment your business needs depends on how many users and what kind of calls you make and receive. A residential user might only need a PC or laptop with a VoIP software program (often called a softphone) and a USB headset to get started. A small business might need a computer or laptop, a web phone or softphone, a headset, and a good internet connection with enough bandwidth to handle your company’s call volume.
Another important piece of VoIP hardware is a router. The router directs the internet traffic and passes data packets between your network devices, including VoIP-enabled phones and computers. A robust router can handle tens of calls at a time without losing performance.
Finally, a good VoIP software program can be installed on each PC or mobile device that will be used to make and receive calls. This program, also known as a softphone, lets employees take their work with them on the go and keep up with CRM or project management programs while on a call. This is especially beneficial for remote workers who want to cut out the cost of a traditional mobile phone plan and have access to their business’s calling features while traveling.
The best VoIP software is easy to use and can be accessed anywhere. Its many features can improve a business’s communication and collaboration with employees, clients, and partners. The software is also flexible and affordable, making it a great choice for businesses looking to save money and improve communication.
While some VoIP providers offer free versions of their software, they may have limited features and less functionality than paid services. By choosing a top-rated VoIP service, you can be sure you’re getting the highest-quality VoIP experience and will have access to all of the features your business needs to grow.
Router
A router is a critical piece of equipment for your business. It provides a stable connection, which allows your business to maintain consistent service to customers and clients. It also ensures that your staff can work with minimal interruptions. Additionally, routers with features like Quality of Service (QoS) can help your business improve network efficiency. For example, QoS can differentiate data packets used for voice calls from those used for downloading large files, which can reduce the amount of bandwidth needed to handle network traffic.
Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA)
An analog telephone adapter (ATA) is the hardware that connects traditional landline phones to a VoIP phone system. Also called a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone adapter or a VoIP converter, the device converts an analog signal from the landline to digital data packets that are sent over the Internet. This allows businesses to keep their existing phones while saving money by bypassing the expensive traditional phone company and landlines.
ATAs are usually small devices with one or more RJ-11 jacks to plug the phone and/or fax into and a WAN port that connects directly to the router or modem for connection to the Internet. Most models also have a USB connector that allows users to connect their computer to the ATA and software (typically a softphone program) for the management of their VoIP calls. The ATA device has multiple Ethernet ports that allow for connections to many different VoIP phone systems and supports the open SIP communications protocol.
Some ATAs have FXS and FXO ports that enable users to retain a landline instrument, such as a PBX, a telephone gateway, or a fax machine, and connect their VoIP system. This is useful if the business needs to continue sending faxes or may want to use their ATA device for emergency call handling or redundancy purposes. The ATA devices also support many different audio codecs to optimize the quality of VoIP calls and reduce bandwidth usage.
Users can choose from a variety of ATA devices that provide various features at affordable prices. For example, the Obihai OBi202 provides support for up to 4 SIP accounts, including Google Voice and T.38 fax, and works with most major VoIP providers. It can even be turned into a wireless device with an optional ObiWiFi or OBiBT adapter so the user can enjoy VoIP without any wires at all. The device can also be used with most Bluetooth-compatible cell phones for VoIP calling over the mobile network. This feature is referred to as a bridge to VoIP and allows business owners to take advantage of VoIP without having to invest in IP phones.
Phone Set
If you’re looking for a new small business phone system, you’ll want to ensure you have the right equipment before signing up. You’ll also want to look for a provider that offers the features you need, including call analytics, voicemail-to-text, and video conference calls.
VoIP systems are a great way to save money on your office phones. You’ll be able to get a local or toll-free number, plus many other business calling features that are normally only available with traditional landlines. Plus, VoIP works over broadband or fiber optic lines, which are much more reliable than copper wires that come with standard landlines.
The best VoIP providers offer multiple business phone equipment options and cloud PBX solutions that allow businesses to use their own devices (like cell phones) instead of desk phones. Some of these VoIP services include the cost of the phones in their plans, while others may charge extra or require you to purchase them separately. You should also consider whether your company will need conference phones, and if so, you’ll want to choose a service that provides them for free or at an additional cost.
Choosing the best VoIP phone system for your company can feel overwhelming. There are so many features, benefits, and accessories to consider! This guide can help you cut through the noise, find the answers to your questions, and be confident in your decision.
A two-line VoIP phone is a good option if you’re on a tight budget. You can find models for around $80 each; some providers even offer them as part of their business phone service.
A four-line VoIP desk phone is the best option for businesses that need to hold multiline conferences or have a receptionist answering a high volume of incoming calls. The next level up from a two-line model, these phones have faster chipsets and more customization than lesser VoIP phones.
Advanced VoIP reporting is a must for businesses that need to track their team’s progress. These features can help you analyze your team’s performance and customer interactions. Plus, you can use them to optimize your business operations and create a sustainable strategy for growth.