Matt Gerchow
November 15, 2021

What Does VoIP Stand for?

Do you still keep a MySpace page or use Netscape as a browser? Probably not, given everyone has moved on to better options. Successful businesses must also keep abreast of technological advancement to maintain and maximize their customer base. That’s why traditional landline phone networks are rapidly fading from the scene. VoIP is taking over. What does VoIP stand for and why should your business have the best VoIP phone service? There are several compelling reasons.

What Does VoIP Stand For?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is exactly what its name suggests, which is the ability to speak to other people online rather than via traditional landlines or cell phone signals. Also referred to as internet telephony, VoIP is simply the act of making a telephone call over the internet.

What Should a User Expect From the Best VoIP Phone Service?

The simple answer is that a company converting to VoIP should expect everything they have in their current telephone network and more, but there are several advantages.

Combining Flexibility and Mobility

VoIP combines the flexibility of landline networks with a cell phone’s mobility. When your business number is assigned an IP address, you needn’t be at your desk to make or receive calls. Incoming calls will be simultaneously routed to your desk phone, cell phone, or softphone on a laptop or tablet, with the first to respond taking the call. You can answer calls while in your office, on the warehouse floor, in transit, on personal business, or at home.

No Cost for Installing Hardware

Because your phones and other devices will operate online, the expense of installing hardware for a separate network is unnecessary. Your pre-existing devices will also serve as your communications system. Company or employee-owned phones and computers can be added to or removed from the network through apps and permission protocols, with security controlled and monitored by designated admins. Everything is essentially plug and play with the business only paying for what it needs at any given time.

Lower Operating and Capital Expenditures

To date, governments have been largely unsuccessful at regulating and taxing online activity. Conversely, traditional telephone services are heavily taxed. Installing a VoIP network for your business will not only eliminate hardware costs, but it will also significantly reduce operating costs, further increasing your profit margin.

Customizable User Options

The best Voice over Internet Protocol systems offer multiple features. Call forwarding can be customized to each employee’s needs. Visual features, such as Zoom backgrounds, can be added individually. Unique voice messages can be applied to each device or for different dates and times. Video conferences can be scheduled by any employee, as needed, and added to their calendars and notifications. Interactive Voice Response can be installed to assist customers and clients. Basically, VoIP is as adaptable as the internet.

With lower installation and operating costs, easy set-up and maintenance, customizability, flexibility, and mobility for individual employees, and a bevy of cutting-edge features, Voice over Internet Protocol phone systems are taking over the industry. More than 35 million American companies converted to VoIP in the last decade and estimates suggest that number will almost double before we are halfway through this one. To shop VoIP options, compare services, and save on operating and capital expenditures, visit VoIPVirtual now.