How does VoIP work?
A VoIP system turns your voice into data and sends it over the internet, just like an email or a video call. When you dial a number, the call travels over your broadband to your VoIP provider, which connects it to the normal phone network. The person you’re calling doesn’t notice any difference.
Because the system lives in the cloud, you don’t need a phone system box in a cupboard. Your extensions, call groups and settings are managed online.
What do you need to use VoIP?
- A reliable internet connection. Each call needs only around 100 kbps in each direction. How much internet speed do you need? →
- Something to answer calls on - an IP desk phone, a headset with the desktop app, or the mobile app.
- A VoIP provider to set up your numbers, extensions and call routing.
What features does a business VoIP system have?
- Auto attendant (“press 1 for sales…”)
- Call groups and queues, so calls reach the right team
- Call forwarding, transfer and parking
- Call recording
- Hold music and time-of-day routing
- Voicemail to email
- Mobile and desktop apps, so staff can take calls anywhere
What are the benefits of VoIP for businesses?
- Lower costs. Cloud phone systems are usually cheaper than traditional lines and on-site systems. Our telecoms clients save 36% on average.
- Work from anywhere. Your office number follows you on your mobile or laptop.
- Easy to change. Add users, change call routing or set holiday hours in minutes.
- Future-proof. VoIP isn’t affected by the PSTN switch-off.
What is the PSTN switch-off and why does it matter?
The UK’s traditional copper phone network (the PSTN), along with ISDN, is being retired. The final switch-off date is 31 January 2027. Any business still using traditional phone lines needs to move to a digital service such as VoIP before then. Read our PSTN switch-off guide →
Can I keep my business phone number with VoIP?
Yes. Your existing landline numbers can be moved (“ported”) to a VoIP system. Your callers keep dialling the same numbers and won’t notice any change.
Is VoIP right for my business?
If you have a decent broadband connection, VoIP suits almost every business - from a two-person office to a multi-site team. We install and support 3CX VoIP phone systems for £14 per user per month, with no contracts. See what VoIP costs in the UK →