The 2025 landline switch off is underway and many businesses are migrating their legacy phone systems to fully digital ones.
Cloud telephony solutions that function using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology are the go-to option for most small businesses due to the substantial benefits they offer. But if you’re new to the world of cloud communications, you might be wondering what equipment is required so you can hit the ground running.
Fortunately, cloud telephony doesn’t require substantial investment in on-site infrastructure or hardware, which is what makes it a cost-effective alternative to traditional landline business phone systems.
Make sure you have a fast internet connection!
To get started with a VoIP phone system, you’ll need to have a robust and reliable internet connection. We strongly recommend fibre broadband.
There are plenty of business broadband providers that offer fast and affordable solutions if you need to upgrade your current internet connection to facilitate the network bandwidth required for cloud telephony.
VoIP phones and cloud telephone: What's the difference?
With cloud telephony, calls are made and received using VoIP. In other words, data is sent and received through the internet.
Employees can make and receive phone calls using an internet connected device like a desktop, laptop or smartphone. Each person is assigned a virtual phone number that enables them to make and receive local and international calls for a fraction of the cost of regular landlines. All they’ll need to do is ensure they have the VoIP software downloaded on their device.
This means they don’t have to be physically present in the office to take business calls and provides the flexibility to stay connected and productive no matter where they’re working from.
Can I get a VoIP desk phone?
There’s also the option to use hardware VoIP phones such as desk or cordless phones.
These can be used in the same way as a regular phone but they don’t need to be connected to an outlet in the same way a landline does - instead they allow the user to make calls over the internet.
Typically VoIP phones provide a range of additional calling features along with HD voice quality.
Can I get a VoIP headset?
Although a headset isn’t necessary when using a softphone app or VoIP desk phone, some people will prefer the convenience and better sound quality they provide.
With a headset, you can free up your hands while you work on your desktop or laptop computer. They’re also a great way to minimise distractions from outside noise sources, especially if you’re working in a busy office or on the go.
There are a variety of VoIP headsets available and they can be wired or connected with Bluetooth.
Make the switch to cloud telephony today
Implementing a cloud-based business phone system will become necessary ahead of the ISDN switch off. But there are plenty of other reasons to choose a VoIP provider like bOnline to manage your business communications.
Not only are cloud phone systems affordable for small businesses, they provide the flexibility and functionality you need to grow and succeed in the modern world.
