When it comes to calling someone, you can use cell phones or you can use a landline. But, there is another option, known as VoIP for calling someone as well. And you know what’s most interesting about this? It’s the fact that you have most definitely used VoIP, yet you might not know that you did. Lucky for you, this blog will talk about VoIP and then compare it to landline. The reason? Both of these are often confused with one another.
One thing that clearly sets landlines apart from VoIP phones is the internet. Believe it or not, VoIP calls use the internet connection. So, this is one of the things you will need to keep in mind for VoIP calls. If, after reading this blog, you wish to get only a VoIP phone, then you need to make sure you have a superb internet connection to match.
If you are not satisfied with your current internet connection, you can switch to another one that offers you more in terms of speed and perks. You should also be sure to check the internet reviews for any connection like Wave internet reviews. Overall, Wave internet provider is a great provider with good reviews in the USA. You will know right away based on customer experiences if the connection is worth the money or not.
What is a VoIP?
VoIP is short for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is a type of communication technology through which you can make phone calls using the internet. You might commonly know this type of communication as Skype, FaceTime, etc. These are all just different forms or types of VoIP. The interesting thing about this is that you can manage VoIP through traditional phones, computer software, smartphone apps, and VoIP phones.
How Does a VoIP Function?
VoIP functions by breaking your voice into digital packets, and then sending these data packets to the recipient on the other end. Although you might never have heard of VoIP before, it is a very common medium of communication. As we mentioned before, Skype, Google Duo, and FaceTime are quite commonly used by people to communicate with each other. All you need for a VoIP to function properly is an internet connection.
Given below are the methods of making VoIP calls:
- A phone and VoIP adapter: You can use a regular landline and a VoIP adapter to make phone calls over the internet. Just be sure to plug your VoIP adapter into a phone outlet or directly to the router.
- A dedicated VoIP phone: This will look exactly the same as a regular phone, except that it will connect directly to the computer network and not a phone line.
- A smartphone: You can download apps on your cell phone like Skype and others to make internet phone calls.
- A computer: Software like Skype and others can also be downloaded or installed on your computer to make phone calls over the internet.
Features of a VoIP
There are some features of VoIP phones that make them different than a regular landline or sometimes, even cell phones. Let’s look at these winning features:
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Virtual Receptionist/Assistant
When you use VoIP, you get a virtual receptionist or an assistant, which is basically like a real receptionist. It can fulfill the duties any assistant needs to do like answering calls, directing calls, delivering recorded messages, and a number of other services. You will have come across these receptionists when calling any customer support.
Usually, the person’s identity is verified or their details may be recorded and confirmed by the virtual assistant, so that, when you are directed to another person, you can skip to the main issue or reason for your call. Naturally, this saves a lot of time for both parties.
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Call Forwarding
Call forwarding is a very handy feature, especially in office settings. If you are traveling, you can use this feature to forward the calls to your cell phone. Or maybe, if you are on a vacation, you can just make sure to forward it to another person. This works the other way around too. If you are receiving a call while you are in an important meeting, you can just forward it to the receptionist to let the caller know you’re not available.
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Voicemail to Email
This feature, you might think, is like a voice-to-text function, but you’re mistaken. This feature does not translate your audio messages to text, but rather you will get the voice message emailed to your inbox. This helps you keep the messages that are important or forward them to others if needed. You can also delete the message if it is of no use to you.
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3-Digit Dialing
911 is an easy number to call and for a reason. In times of emergency, when a person is panicking, their judgment is clouded and they are confused. So, a three-digit number makes it easier to be memorable and dial. What if you could do that for other numbers as well?
Maybe not all, but what if your kids can memorize three digits only that will place a call to your phone? Or maybe you could do it for a friend? This is exactly what three-digit dialing does. You can save any number by a three-digit code and that’s it!
What is a Landline?
A landline telephone is also referred to as a home phone. It works by sending signals through copper wires from one phone to another. Naturally, due to a physical connection, these are usually more reliable and fast.
Features of a Landline
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Reliability
Reliability is one of the features or qualities that a landline can boast, no matter the advancement of technology. Landlines may be outdated for many people, but it is mostly still used in companies and organization because of this feature. Your call will not drop, or lag, whenever there is a little disturbance. It does not even require an internet connection to function.
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Quality
With no spotty internet connection, you get a clear sound and clear quality. There is no need to get up and go to a place where you get a better signal as you might do with cell phones. This is one more unmatched feature of the landline that hasn’t yet been reproduced as perfectly elsewhere.
Bringing It All Together
While a landline carries significantly fewer perks than a VoIP phone, these perks are unique to it. Whereas, VoIP also carries some pretty useful and handy features, some of which are unique to it only. At the end of the day, the decision you make also depends on what you actually need. Whether you are buying one for your office work, or you are buying one for your personal needs, the decision will differ.
