Voice over Internet Protocol phone systems complete phone calls using broadband internet connections. These
are usually very convenient when it comes to data and voice communication, which is why many businesses are now making use of these and diverting from the traditional telephone systems. These VoIP phone systems are fast and cost-effective with good features, hence a good choice for use by small and medium businesses.
There are several types of VoIP systems, which you need to know about to decide the one that suits you best. These are usually dependent on the mode of operation as well as devices that are in use.
Types of Phone Systems - VoIP
These are such as
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PC-to-PC systems
The PC-to-PC VoIP systems are those that allow you to make phone calls from one computer to another. For this system to work well, both computers need to have installed the same software. To aid the communication, the system requires that you have a microphone for speech enhancement and speakers for conversation hearing. This system allows you to make free calls and to use free software in most cases. Examples of the service providers that offer this type of VoIP system are Google Talk, Skype, Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Live Messenger from Microsoft.
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IP phone-to-phone systems
These systems involve the connection of a broadband or IP phone directly to the broadband connection. This is a special type of telephone. The IP phone completes all functions of the traditional phone systems, which include transfer, hold and conference actions. IP phone systems are being put into use by many businesses to connect their employees to one virtual office. Every employee, no matter his or her location, has a primary phone number extension.
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PC-to-phone systems
The PC-to-phone VoIP systems allow for placement of calls directly from a computer to traditional phones. For these systems to work, you need to have a calling plan and download the relevant software. You get to select services that are both local and long distance and you might get a different phone number for use in these systems. To dial and complete the PC-to-phone calls, you get to use a soft phone, which uses the computer software to dial phone numbers.
Choosing a VoIP phone system
Now that you know the types of systems that are in use, you need to choose the one that suits you best. There are certain factors to consider when choosing the VoIP system to use.
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Features
You need to take a good look at the different features that each system has to offer to determine if they suit your needs. Choose the IP phone system that will cover your needs and gives you standard call quality. These features can be voice mailboxes, call waiting and call forwarding among many others.
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Consider the equipment and contracts
Check the length of the contract and its nature too as well as the equipment that the company is giving.
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Cost
If you are starting up, it is best to keep your expenses as minimal as you can. Therefore, get the IP phone system that suits your budget. However, this does not mean that you should compromise on the service reputation and benefits as well as features. Try to create a balance to make sure you get the best system.
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Evaluate brands
You need to take your time to evaluate the different brand and systems available. This will allow you to make a good investment for a good price.
The VoIP phone systems have many advantages compared to the traditional ones. These include the reduction of costs as seen with the PC-to-PC calls, which are free regardless of the distance. The costs for the service plans are usually much lower for VoIP systems unlike the traditional phone systems. Therefore these VoIP phone systems are out there, which are reliable and efficient.
