Common myths about digital phone lines

book a free mobile consultation

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be retired in the UK on 31 January 2027. This means businesses must switch from traditional phone systems to digital phone lines now. 

Digital phone lines use a different type of technology to make phone calls such as Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP.

Instead of relying on physical, copper lines, VoIP transmits voice calls over the internet by converting the audio at one end of the connection into digital data packets. These are then transmitted to the other end of the connection and converted back into audio files. And it uses internet-connected devices rather than desk phones to make calls.

So, what are some common misconceptions around digital phone lines?

5 misconceptions about VoIP

Don’t fall for these digital phone line myths:

 

Myth 1: VoIP offers less reliability and poor call quality

While there may have been less reliability when internet-based calls were first developed, the technology has significantly evolved since then.

VoIP now delivers calls with clear audio and very minimal lag or interference.

It’s important to note that, as calls are held over the internet, your business broadband quality directly impacts calls. As such, a reliable internet connection, like full fibre broadband, is essential to making VoIP a success.

The breadth of the digital phone service also means that VoIP is more reliable than the PSTN. Calls are connected through several data centres across multiple locations, meaning that an outage in one area won’t affect VoIP services.

 

Myth 2: VoIP is more expensive

Cost is one of the main benefits of switching to digital. VoIP phone systems are priced on a per-user basis and are easily scalable if your business is going through a quieter or busier period.

You can increase or decrease the number of lines that you pay for super quickly, which is particularly useful for businesses with seasonal peaks, or those expanding to a new location.

Plus, you don’t necessarily need to buy a bunch of new technology. All that’s needed is an internet-enabled device and a broadband connection.

VoIP also allows you to save money on your comms setup by implementing a unified communications (UC) strategy. UC combines all comms channels:

  • Telephones
  • Instant messaging
  • Emails
  • Video conferencing
  • File sharing

Although VoIP applications can be accessed from a range of devices such as tablets, desktops and mobile phones, it appears as just one phone number for business continuity.

 

Myth 3: PSTN migration is complicated

Migrating to VoIP is easy if businesses opt for a hosted solution.

Hosted VoIP systems involve working with a provider, like Crystaline, on an ongoing basis, to manage installation, setup and troubleshooting.

Working with a communication technology partner helps to take the headache out of the switch as you’re provided with ongoing technical support protected by a service level agreement.

And if your business already has VoIP-ready devices, you just need to download the app of their selected VoIP system, ensure the phone is connected to the internet and you’re ready to go.

View Crystaline’s service level agreement.

 

Myth 4: Digital phone lines are not secure

Digital phone lines are as secure as the IT infrastructure of a business as they are made within an internal system.

For example, the Vodafone Business UC with Ring Central system includes an authentication feature to ensure only authorised users have access and is encrypted to safeguard data and communications.

This prevents calls from being re-routed outside of an organisation and stops hackers from infiltrating the system to protect against third-party access to business data.

 

Myth 5: VoIP requires a new phone number

While a new number is an option when switching to VoIP, it’s certainly not essential. If you’re happy with the simplicity of your current contact methods, you can stick with it.

What’s more, with VoIP calls, you can use the same number on several devices. As long as the app is installed, each employee can be contacted on the office number remotely from their mobile.

This helps businesses by:

  • Ensuring they never miss a call as employees can receive a call from anywhere, on any device.
  • Supporting remote working, to prevent clients or customers feeling deterred from contacting their providers.
‘Infographic with text ‘Why use an all-IP solution? Improved call quality, greater flexibility, future proofed, seamless communications across multiple devices.’

Digital phone lines from Crystaline

While change can be daunting, there’s no need for concern. Digital phone lines enabled by VoIP will soon be the only option for businesses.

With so many connections to be switched over to VoIP over the next couple of years, it’s worth getting ahead now to ensure the switch is as smooth and seamless as possible.

Crystaline offers VoIP phone systems to suit a range of businesses. As an independent provider, our team can share expert advice on the steps that your business should take to ensure a smooth transition.

Get in touch with the team below to start your switch over.