Okay, so let’s say that you’re ready for the new standard in delivered voice, cloud-based VoIP. You’re shopping around for the few bits of equipment and, ethernet cables in hand, you now need to decide on your phone setup. It can be challenging for first-timers and even those with experience in wholesale VoIP to determine what’s best for their specific use case, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! 

Here are the essentials when it comes to phones designed for cloud-based VoIP integration.

Two Types of Phones

When shopping around, you’ll notice that there are two varieties of VoIP phones, otherwise known as IP phones, readily available: Hardware and software-based variants. Hardware-based IP phones pretty much resemble traditional desk-based phones, but they also feature a speakerphone or microphone, a display screen to indicate caller ID and status, and a touchpad for input. These are usually reserved for audio-based calls; video conferencing is linked through software.

Software-based IP phones are different – and by that, we mean they’re actually just software. There’s no physical hardware to speak of other than a separate purchase of a microphone-enabled headset for audio calls and computer with a webcam for videoconferencing. By installing the appropriate application on your network-enabled computer or even a smartphone, known as a softphone or mobile dialer, you have the ability to easily make VoIP calls. If you choose a carrier-grade platform with full redundancy and scalability, you can be assured of top-notch call quality regardless.

Key Benefits

Cost efficiency is a major advantage to VoIP-based calling as opposed to traditional communications methods. This is largely because VoIP call charges are significantly less than with traditional cellular service providers. Sometimes, you might have the option to make such calls at no cost. Along with that, users have the luxury of being more mobile, with remote communications made possible by the technology. Along with real-time communication, a comprehensive suite of leading-edge features and reliable networking, it’s easy to see why it’s the new standard with so many B2B users. 

Speaking of the new standard, DirectNet is excited to deliver it. With our fully redundant, carrier-grade network, industry-leading 24x7x365 support and fully in-house operations, you’re assured of the most stable and cost-efficient cloud-based VoIP networking possible. To learn more, contact our team today – we’re ready to ensure your migration to the new standard is streamlined, smooth, and intrusion-free.