What is hosted VoIP?
Hosted VoIP is a cloud-based technology, where a phone system operates digitally over the internet.
Unlike traditional phone systems, which are generally managed on site, hosted VoIP is handled remotely by a service provider.
A major benefit is that it doesn’t necessarily require new equipment. For example, you might be able to access the phone system through an app or web page.
As such, hosted VoIP is ideal if you’re looking for an easy and cost-effective way to upgrade your business’s phone system.
Hosted VoIP phone systems
With legacy systems posing a growing risk of technical issues, hosted VoIP phone systems are quickly becoming a popular choice among businesses.
In particular, many will be looking towards options like hosted VoIP if their current phones rely on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The PSTN will be switched off in 2027, so moving over to internet-based calls is a good way to future proof a business phone system.
How does hosted VoIP work?
Hosted VoIP is offered as a cloud-based service, managed off site by the provider.
This allows businesses to access features like call forwarding and queuing without the stress of dealing with the phone system’s maintenance.
Calls made over the hosted VoIP platform are digital, which involves converting voices to digital data packets, before transmitting them to the other end of the line.
With the platform handled externally, the whole process is incredibly quick and reliable for businesses.
Top features of hosted VoIP
Digital phone lines are now a common sight in offices, and it’s no wonder when you consider the huge range of features.
Here are the top benefits of hosted VoIP phone systems:
- Mobility – As long as employees have an internet connection and the relevant software, VoIP business calls can be made and received anywhere. This includes international calls without any extra charge or detriment to service quality.
- Flexibility – Hosted VoIP features can help to build an agile working environment, such as through call routing, call recording and video conferencing.
- Improved customer service – The more reliable a phone connection, the lower the risk of lost sales and unhappy customers due to line disruptions.
- Security – Software updates are sent out automatically to ensure devices remain as secure as possible. Many hosted VoIP phone systems come with additional security features such as end-to-end encryption to support business cybersecurity.
- Affordability – VoIP calling requires less hardware and is usually priced per-user, meaning it is generally cheaper than traditional phone systems. It’s even possible to add extra features, such as a virtual receptionist and automated call handling, without breaking the bank.
- Simplicity – Hosted VoIP allows you to get rid of bulky, complicated hardware for easier operations. Budgeting for staff and operation costs is much easier too.
Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of Crystaline, discusses the benefits of upgrading to digital phone systems as a business:
Traditional phone systems confine employees to working at the office if they need access to their business phone number, yet with VoIP, location does not matter.
As long as employees have an internet connection and the relevant software, business calls can be made and received internationally without any extra charges or detriment to service quality.
The transition away from rigid infrastructure also makes VoIP scalable. A traditional phone system requires expensive hardware, so scaling up a communication system as a business grows is financially intensive.
Since VoIP just relies on an internet connection, expanding the system is simple.
Looking for a new hosted VoIP phone system? Get in touch to discover our solutions.