What is a VoIP Phone?

A VoIP phone is a phone that uses a data connection, such as the Internet, to make and receive phone calls.

This VoIP phone converts voice (the analog signal) into digital packets, which are then sent over the data connection to the online VoIP telephone exchange it is connected to via a VoIP subscription (calling over the Internet).

This allows the VoIP phone to make and receive calls: the VoIP telephone exchange handles the distribution of these calls. A separate landline or physical telephone exchange is no longer needed. Everything operates via the cloud (cloud telephony) and is managed using the Voice over Internet Protocol.

The old analog phone and analog line have become obsolete.

This new form of telephony is also called IP telephony (Internet Protocol) or digital telephony.

What Types of VoIP Phones Are There?

A VoIP phone can be a desk phone (hardphone) or a software application installed on a device like a desktop computer (softphone).

It’s important to know that incoming calls to your business number at Belfabriek can be delivered to your VoIP phones but also to your mobile phone or the phones of remote workers.

This way, you’re not dependent on a working Internet connection, and you don’t need to install a mobile app to receive calls.

This provides a perfect combination of Internet telephony and ensures you’re reachable everywhere.

All features like call forwarding, fixed to mobile, and menu options are included, so you get all the benefits of VoIP on all your phone numbers.

How Does Communication Work via VoIP Telephony?

When someone dials your phone number, the call is forwarded to the telephone exchange where you’ve registered the number and subscribed to a VoIP plan.

The telephone exchange checks which VoIP phones are registered and attempts to reach them using an INVITE command.

If a VoIP phone is a desk phone or a computer, this will always work. If you have to install an app from your provider to receive calls, the INVITE often fails: the app may be in sleep mode or inactive, causing missed calls.

For businesses, it’s crucial to choose a VoIP provider that also forwards calls to landlines or mobile phones, ensuring flexibility and not solely relying on Internet connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is Calling Over VoIP Free?

Calling over the Internet doesn’t make the call free. The providers of both the calling and receiving parties still charge access and interconnection fees. Some providers may offer apps to receive calls, bypassing certain costs, but this can result in missed calls.

Is VoIP Telephony the New Form of Telephony?

Traditional telephony has become digital telephony. Analog phone lines are being phased out, making VoIP telephony the new standard alongside mobile and satellite telephony. We deliver incoming calls to all types of devices.

How Does VoIP Work?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, which converts voice into digital packets and transmits them over an Internet connection. A VoIP device is part of your data network and has an IP address, allowing the telephone exchange to locate it.

Is VoIP Used for International Calls?

The first calls made using VoIP were international because it significantly reduced costs by utilizing available international bandwidth. Individuals often used VoIP to call relatives abroad, and providers converted international calls into digital ones to send them over the Internet, avoiding expensive standard phone lines.

What Is the Biggest Advantage of VoIP Telephony?

The biggest advantage of VoIP telephony is that you no longer need an on-site telephone exchange. Instead, you can use an online VoIP telephone exchange hosted in a data center. This saves significant investment costs and is much easier to use.

I Have Multiple Locations and Want VoIP Phones Everywhere. Is That Possible?

We specialize in businesses with multiple (international) locations. We automatically route calls based on postal codes or area codes, creating a single call group for all branches.

Why VoIP Telephony?

The new form of business communication is VoIP telephony. Analog telephony is gone; everything is now digital calling, or “voice over IP.”

Do I Need a Headset to Call via VoIP?

You need a VoIP device to make VoIP calls. If you want to use a headset, install a software-based phone on your desktop computer and connect a headset. This creates a fully functional phone, commonly used in call centers or offices where employees handle more than five calls per hour, keeping their hands free for tasks.

I’m a Startup Using a Mobile Phone. Can I Still Use VoIP?

If you have a separate business number, we can forward it to your mobile phone. You can make calls via your browser or mobile device, ensuring you’re not dependent on a working Internet connection.

Can I Use Any VoIP Device on My Connection?

We provide you with a username and password to connect any device to our exchange. The brand doesn’t matter to us. If you’d like our assistance, we recommend Yealink devices, as we have advanced tools to remotely manage and configure them.

I Need a SIP Account for My VoIP Device.

You need a SIP or VoIP account for your VoIP device to register and establish a connection. Contact us, and we’ll provide one immediately.

Can I Get Just a Phone Number Without VoIP?

Absolutely! We can provide you with a great phone number with all the features without requiring VoIP telephony or new mobile phones.