One of the core tenants of running a business is maintaining lines of communication between you, your staff, and your customers and clients. Having a functioning phone line is the most basic way to facilitate this contact and communication.
Where landlines were once the only option, today’s technologies present more options. Should you go with a modern VoIP setup or rely on the more traditional landline?
At All-Tech Communications, we understand this concern and want to provide you with the right knowledge so you can make an informed decision.
If you are considering VoIP vs a Landline for your business, here is everything you need to know:
VoIP calls can be made through a variety of methods like smartphone apps, computer software, traditional phones, and VoIP-enabled phones.
The technology works by breaking up your voice into digital packets and sending it as data via the internet to the recipient.
Because VoIP can be used with a range of applications and programs (like Skype and FaceTime), it can be used by, and is easily accessible to, anyone with an internet connection.
Landlines provide your business with reliable phone access that works, even in a power failure or weather emergency. Furthermore, they are automatically compatible with emergency services like 9-1-1 meaning that if you need to call for help, the emergency operator can easily track the location of the call and send the appropriate services.
Even if a VoIP system is functional in an emergency, the call will not be traceable by the operator, putting you and your staff at increased risk if you are not able to clearly communicate your location or your emergency. Imagine, for example, that you are experiencing a questionable internet connection at the same time and your conversation is unclear? Every second counts in an emergency and a landline can get you what you need more easily. Another reason to choose a landline is this: your business cannot afford to be out of contact. If your VoIP system fails, for whatever reason, you may lose customers or new leads. A landline offers more consistent service and will ensure access when needed.
Having your phone system installed by a knowledgeable and professional team like the one at All-Tech Communications will give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are secure in emergency situations and that continuity in communications can last through even the most difficult external circumstances.
Contact All-Tech Communications today to make sure your phone system is installed and set up to ensure that all your needs are properly met!
Where landlines were once the only option, today’s technologies present more options. Should you go with a modern VoIP setup or rely on the more traditional landline?
At All-Tech Communications, we understand this concern and want to provide you with the right knowledge so you can make an informed decision.
If you are considering VoIP vs a Landline for your business, here is everything you need to know:
What is VoIP and How Does it Work?
Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) is a communication technology that enables phone calls using an internet connection instead of analog phone lines.VoIP calls can be made through a variety of methods like smartphone apps, computer software, traditional phones, and VoIP-enabled phones.
The technology works by breaking up your voice into digital packets and sending it as data via the internet to the recipient.
Because VoIP can be used with a range of applications and programs (like Skype and FaceTime), it can be used by, and is easily accessible to, anyone with an internet connection.
Pros and Cons of VoIP
As the world moves online, VoIP is becoming increasingly popular. Here’s a quick glance at the pros and cons associated with adopting this expanding technology.Pros of VoIP
- Increased Connectivity: With VoIP technology, you do not have to be chained to your desk waiting for a call. Calls can easily be forwarded to a mobile device allowing users to make and receive calls from anywhere their day takes them.
- Relatively Low Cost: Because calls are made using the internet, you will not have to pay monthly for a phone system, and some of the valuable features, like call transfers and queuing, will not cost extra. You may even be able to save on long-distance calls as they are often free when conducted via VoIP.
- Adaptable Technology: VoIP is often compatible with the latest technologies and computer accessories. This can provide greater functionality by enabling users to host video calls and send multimedia messages as well as placing voice calls.
Cons of VoIP
- Reliance on the Internet: The internet may be nearly everywhere, but not all connections are created equal. Businesses that are not operating on a fiber optic solution or have an unreliable connection, may experience poor call quality. Unclear communication and dropped calls are a concern with VoIP and these issues may cost clients.
- Unavailable in Emergencies: Many VoIP systems do not support emergency services like 9-1-1. And those that do, require an enhanced setup that may be unknown or inaccessible to users. If there is an internet outage or a power failure, VoIP systems are unavailable, knocking you offline during a time when you may need to reach out for help or customers are trying to reach you for support. Depending on the nature of your business, this situation could be catastrophic.
What is a Landline?
A landline is the traditional phone system most of us know. Landline signals travel through copper wires and switch boxes, connecting phones to one another. These systems are very reliable but in the rare occurrence of a problem, maintenance can be complicated.Pros and Cons of a Landline
Landlines have been around since the 1800s and when you look at the pros and cons, it isn’t hard to see why these systems remain in popular use today.Pros of a Landline
- Reliability: Landlines use a well-established, tried and tested, telecommunications network to function. This means that landlines provide reliable and consistent service without dropped calls. This can support business growth and productivity as clients can always reach you and your staff can maintain lines of communication with each other and with necessary partners, vendors, and clients.
- Consistent Quality: VoIP call quality depends on the quality of the internet connection. It’s hard to know what to expect from day to day. With a landline, call quality remains high and consistent from day-to-day, no matter the weather or other extenuating circumstances.
- Emergency Use: Landlines automatically support emergency services and will operate in a power failure. Landlines work within your current security systems set up to provide reliable access to emergency services when and if you need them.
- Ease of Use: One of the biggest benefits associated with landlines is the ease of use. Everyone knows how to make a phone call and the vast majority of us are familiar with the use of this technology, making it accessible to most.
Cons of a Landline
- Not as Flexible: landline technology requires a user to be in a specific location in order to use it. In other words, your staff must be on-site to access to make and receive calls. There are features like call forwarding that can be employed to eliminate some of these problems but they are likely to increase the monthly bill.
- Potential Susceptibility to Spam: Spammers and telemarketers are more likely to have access to your landline than they are to a VoIP system. This, of course, is only a minor inconvenience.
VoIP vs Landline for Business: the Verdict
When it comes down to it, the choice between VoIP vs a landline for business is relatively simple. A landline presents the best, and most reliable, option.Landlines provide your business with reliable phone access that works, even in a power failure or weather emergency. Furthermore, they are automatically compatible with emergency services like 9-1-1 meaning that if you need to call for help, the emergency operator can easily track the location of the call and send the appropriate services.
Even if a VoIP system is functional in an emergency, the call will not be traceable by the operator, putting you and your staff at increased risk if you are not able to clearly communicate your location or your emergency. Imagine, for example, that you are experiencing a questionable internet connection at the same time and your conversation is unclear? Every second counts in an emergency and a landline can get you what you need more easily. Another reason to choose a landline is this: your business cannot afford to be out of contact. If your VoIP system fails, for whatever reason, you may lose customers or new leads. A landline offers more consistent service and will ensure access when needed.
Having your phone system installed by a knowledgeable and professional team like the one at All-Tech Communications will give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are secure in emergency situations and that continuity in communications can last through even the most difficult external circumstances.
Contact All-Tech Communications today to make sure your phone system is installed and set up to ensure that all your needs are properly met!