Smooth Transition: 3 Crucial Factors to Consider When Switching to VoIP Phone Systems

With VoIP phone systems becoming increasingly popular, we’re often asked about the requirements and technology needed to move from a traditional phone system to this Internet based one. Well we’re here to help. Many of our clients are first time VoIP users and they had a lot of the same questions you might have about the transition between these different phone systems. To help make the process easier, we wrote this article highlighting 3 things to consider when buying a VoIP phone system.

Related: Learn more about virtual VoIP phone systems 

1. Your Internet Service

One thing that’s extremely important with VoIP is an adequate Internet connection. Because VoIP runs entirely over the Internet, it’s important that you have enough bandwidth to allow for crystal clear calls.

The amount of bandwidth needed depends on the audio codec your provider offers. We recommend 87 kbps for Full Quality Audio (G711 Codec) and 33 kbps for Compressed Audio (G729 Codec) for each calls.

Before you transition to a VoIP phone system, it’s important to make sure that your current Internet service can support the new system. If not, you’ll need to discuss your new needs with your Internet provider.

2. Your Current Hardware

A VoIP phone system runs over the Internet and thus, won’t be compatible with some of the hardware and software you may already have from your traditional phone system.

That being said, the transition to a VoIP phone system may require the purchase of new technology and equipment.

For example, the phones your office is currently using won’t work on a VoIP system unless they’re programmed to do so. You have the option of programming them using an ATA (analog telephone adapter) or purchasing new VoIP specific phones.

3. What is your Budget?

The last thing you should consider when making the transition from one phone system to another is your budget. Like we mentioned above, you may have to increase your Internet bandwidth or even purchase new equipment that is compatible with your new VoIP phone system. Both of these expenses should be planned out in your budget.

Your budget is also important when it comes to things like VoIP calling features. While some VoIP providers offer all their calling features automatically, some providers may allow you to pick and choose features, costing more per feature. It's important that you understand what you can afford each month so you can choose the features and services that are not only important to your businesses success but that you can afford, too.

The great thing about a VoIP phone system is that continual maintenance and updates on your system is ordinarily handled by your provider. That means you won't need to factor in these expensive costs that are typical with a traditional phone system. This allows you to create a manageable and predictable monthly bill for your system.