VoIP has taken the world by storm in the past two years, especially thanks to a growing need for remote work solutions. Making phone calls without paying long distance charges from any device is pretty great. You can even keep your own telephone number. But when people compare VoIP solutions, they often hesitate because they’re worried they’ll have to buy a brand new phone. Well, worry no more, because the VoIP ATA is here to save the day.
What Is Voice Over Internet Protocol?
Voice over Internet Protocol, also known as Voice over IP or simply VoIP, is a technology that lets you make calls using a virtual telephone number. This virtual number works just like a traditional phone number, the only difference is that you need an internet connection for it to work. VoIP service providers route your calls over the internet, so you can call a VoIP phone from a landline, and vice versa.
Unlike your traditional telephone service, VoIP solutions offer free long distance, unlimited calls, and high quality voice using a high-speed internet connection. You can even use features like Caller ID or use your VoIP service as a virtual fax machine. There are many advantages to using VoIP over a traditional telephony system. So, what do you need to get started?
What Do You Need to Use Voice Over IP?
You might think you need a new computer or blazing fast internet service, but in reality, VoIP services are not that complicated. While you can make calls from your computer if you install the software that your VoIP provider gives you, you can use other devices too. It’s easy to use VoIP on mobile devices, meaning mobile phones are ready to go. VoIP calls don’t even consume much data, so you won’t have to stress over surprise costs.
You will need an internet connection, and you’ll have to subscribe to one of the many VoIP service providers out there. Fortunately, you have tons of choices. Instead of choosing between one or two traditional phone service providers, you can choose between dozens of VoIP services. Some have business features while others are meant to replace your standard analog phone system at home.
Use a VoIP ATA to Add VoIP Service to Your Current Phone
Business customers and homeowners alike may already have a phone they love. But your old telephone can’t connect to your router and magically become an internet phone, right? Well, guess again. You can turn any phone into a VoIP phone with one simple device: The VoIP analog adapter. This turns analog phones into VoIP phones in seconds. Best of all, the cost is minimal. Some VoIP providers even include it for free!
All you need to do is plug your VoIP adapter into your traditional phone, then plug the other end into your router. The adapter will connect to your network so it can use your internet connection instead of a traditional telephone line. From there, you’ll need to log into your VoIP phone service provider site and activate the adapter. And that’s all there is to it!
Can I Use a VoIP Phone Instead?
If you’d rather not buy an adapter, there are phones that were designed to work specifically with VoIP. Ask your VoIP provider which models their platform supports. The best VoIP providers have a wide selection of VoIP phone options that range from as low as $100 to as high as $500 with touchscreen displays and Wi-Fi network communications. VoIP services like Vonage include a free VoIP phone for new subscribers.
Using VoIP is easy when you have so many options. However, some features will only work on the computer or on your mobile phone. Most people prefer to use their cell phone for VoIP calls, but having a desk phone is always an option if you have a VoIP ATA. Compare the providers we’ve covered here to learn more about using your traditional phone with VoIP service.
