Even though your business is not quite in a state to go with a full-fledged small business phone system, you might still consider using a virtual phone line because of some of the following reasons- added professionalism, combining business and personal phone calls, or even dialing in a new area code.
One of the most excellent methods of trying a virtual phone system without prior commitment is the use of free business phone numbers. Fortunately, a number of providers in the market provide free VoIP numbers.
This article will tell you everything about the free VoIP calls.
What is a VoIP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the technology of voice communications, which establishes and accepts calls on the Internet as opposed to the wired analog network.
VoIP phone systems do not depend on PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and therefore are not restricted to a physical area and would not need thorough on-site installation or wiring. VoIP services are cloud-based and hence can be used anywhere using any device as long as there is an effective Internet connection. The VoIP phone system can be accessed by users through desktop/laptops, tablets, mobile phones, VoIP phones (also known as IP phones), or even VoIP-build telephones.
VoIP is not only of higher call quality, more affordable, simply offers a better overall value due to the advanced features it offers but is also easier to scale when compared to traditional landlines.
Other names of VoIP are Voice over IP, virtual telephony, a cloud phone or online phone system.
How Does VoIP Work?
VoIP utilizes the data packets that are converted into digital form by reading the voice audio and sending it via the Internet. When you make a call, the data packets can move back and forth between your phone and a VoIP provider (your Internet Telephony Service Provider, for example) to establish a call. The following are some of the steps in the process:
- Your Local Area Network (LAN) enables you to connect your phone to your switch or your router.
- When you use your phone to dial a number using your VoIP service provider, your phone instructs your preset VoIP provider to make the call to the other side.
- The provider initiates the call and swaps data packets on your phone.
- These are the digital signals which are converted into sounds which you can hear by your VoIP phone.
Are VoIP Calls Free?
VoIP calling is not completely free. The following is a brief explanation of VoIP calling expenses:
1. Peer-to-Peer VoIP
Usually, the calls are free when between two users of the same VoIP service (whether it is a Skype to Skype, or Skype to WhatsApp call). The price may come with your internet package or with the app.
2. App-Based Services
Most of the well-known VoIP applications (Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom, etc.) provide free calls to other users of the same application. These applications can also come with free text messaging and video calls.
3. VoIP Providers
There are VoIP providers that provide free calling within their network, as traditional phone service providers do free calling within a certain area. As an example, calls between two parties may be free in case both of them use the same VoIP provider.
4. Paid Services
Calling out of the VoIP network or to landline/mobile numbers most of the time will require you to buy credits or a subscription plan.
Such costs may differ, depending on the VoIP provider and the destination country.
5. Internet Connection
Your VoIP calls may be of any type, but in any case, you will need a sound connection to the Internet. Your internet speed and stability also determine the quality of your call and this might attract extra internet service charges.
6. Hardware Costs
Whilst a vast majority of VoIP services may be used together with equipment that you have, they can also be associated with costs such as particular hardware, such as IP phones.
What is the Cost of VoIP Calling?
VoIP phone service is different with regards to the price since various providers have varied prices, as well as the number of consumers using it and the features. Just to make you an idea of the costs, here is how much VoIP normally costs:
- Initial expenses: 0-50 dollars per line
- Line costs: between 19 and 45 dollars a month
- Equipment price: 80-600 dollars per IP phone
- International call:$ 0.01 at a time
- Taxes and fees: It depends on our city, county and state
- VoIP Phone System prices: Change with varies support providers and features
Other Factors Influencing VoIP Call Prices
The rate of VoIP calls may vary depending on several factors and it is necessary to take into consideration the following variables:
1. VoIP Service Provider
The pricing policy and cost standard of VoIP service providers may be very different. Some providers will have competitive prices on international calls and some will use their services to offer premium services.
2. Call Destination
Prices on VoIP calls may be varied as to where you are calling. Telephone calls to landline or mobile phones may be charged particularly when it is an international call.
3. Plan & Subscription
There are a lot of VoIP providers having various plans and subscriptions. One of them may provide free calling within local area codes, another one may be per minute rates or pay as you go.
4. Extra Features
VoIP services can also offer enhanced services such as call recording, besides giving virtual phone numbers and voicemail transcriptions, which can be offered at an extra fee.
5. Internet Connection
High-speed and consistent internet are essential in quality VoIP calling. The high cost of the internet can indirectly influence the overall cost of making calls via VoIP.
6. Hardware and Devices
In case you need specialized VoIP equipment or devices like IP phones or conference kit, you might incur some initial cost on buying these devices.
In Conclusion – VoIP Calls
VoIP is the ideal cost-saving option and comes with flexibility and an array of useful features to businesses and individuals wanting to save their money. No matter, what kind of calling needs you have, in personal communication or business, VoIP can assist you to save to the extent of not having to break the bank.
Even though VoIP calls may sometimes be free of charge, given that it may be app-to-app communication or business-based communication, the call may cost money when dialing normal phone numbers or when utilizing a particular service plan. All in all, VoIP services are usually cheaper than the traditional phone services, particularly at a long distant or international calls.
FAQS – VoIP Calls
Q1. Are there free VoIP calls?
As the VoIP calls happen over the Internet instead of the PSTN, local calls also become free and unlimited after you have registered with a VoIP service. International VoIP calling and VoIP toll-free calling however, is not free.
Q2. Is it possible to use VOIP on my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, mobile phones such as iPhones, Androids, and other tablets can access most of the popular Voice over IP phone providers with no problem. Cellular 4G and 5G signals have become widely accessible with similar speed as wired broadband networks, making mobile phones secondary VoIP phones.
Q3. Is VoIP less costly than normal calling?
Yes, particularly long-distance, and international calls. A large number of VoIP services have free or low cost plans that are cheaper compared to the normal telephone charges.
Q4. Is it possible to use VoIP without the internet?
No, VoIP can only work with an internet connection.
Q5. Is a VoIP call secure?
Yes, VoIP calls are safe and secure and encrypted. They become more secure, when you engage a safe provider and maintain secured network.
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