VoIP phones and landlines are backed by very different technologies. That being said, both offer the same service – calling! How these calls are made, the quality, mobility and reliability are different.
This blog will look at the critical differences between the two and how they work. We will also look at the combined benefits and a quick guide to getting set it up.
VoIP vs. Landline: What Are the Differences?
As mentioned, there are some key differences between the two. Firstly, let’s take a look at how they both operate.
As you can see, traditional landlines are connected to physical lines. It also works off on-site routers and switch boxes. With PSTN lines, they require on-site maintenance and are becoming harder to maintain with the impending shutdown.
VoIP Phone Systems are powered through the internet. VoIP doesn’t work on copper wires or on-site hardware, so it can be used from any location. As a result, VoIP calls can be made through mobiles, VoIP phones and desktop apps.
Reasons for Choosing a VoIP Phone System over Landlines
So, why do we think VoIP is best? Why should you replace your landline with VoIP? Well, its incredible growth and popularity is just one of many reasons.
The global VoIP market size is projected to reach USD 105660 million by 2027. This is from USD 85330 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 3.1% during 2021-2027.
- Hardware:
When it comes to landline phone systems, you will need lots of hardware and phones to start up, which takes time and money. VoIP means less hardware, with the option of using BYOD (bring your own device). So instead of lots of hardware, you can begin making calls through softphones and desktop applications, all from a simply installed VoIP platform.
- Cost:
VoIP providers offer big big savings.
On average, there are 30—50% savings after switching to a VoIP system. -WebTribunal
Just another reason for VoIP’s high adoption rate. Businesses can save on long-distance calls, hardware, operational needs and more.
- Obsolete Technology and The Internet:
Traditional landlines are fading away! The PSTN shutdown is on the way, set to be completed by 2025. Therefore telephones that work with copper wires will no longer work. As we approach the end, it’s becoming harder to maintain traditional phone systems and hardware.
In comparison, the internet is going nowhere. In fact, it is only getting better. For this reason, many businesses now opt to use internet-based phones just like VoIP. Offering better call quality and reliability.
- Future Communications:
Business communications will continue to change. The last few years have shown us the need for agile technology that supports this. VoIP comes with future-proofing features. It supports remote working, global teams and offers better customer care. Here are just some of the features you can’t get from a traditional landline.
How Does a VoIP to Landline Connection Work?
As we already highlighted, VoIP and landline telephone work very differently. So how can the two connect and work?
VoIP makes calls via the internet. In contrast, landlines receive calls through PSTN. Therefore, VoIP to landline calls travel through an internet connection and also use PSTN lines.
When a VoIP call moves into the PSTN lines this is called address translation. VoIP calls use IP addresses, so it is translated into a phone number when connecting to a landline.
The switch from internet to PSTN isn’t noticeable to the caller or receiver. However, how the call is charged changes. VoIP calls made to landlines cost more. This is because part of the call is carried out over PSTN lines. Depending on the distance of your call and the time on the call, it all adds up.
3 Ways to Connect VoIP to Landline
Thankfully, you can connect your landline to VoIP in a number of ways. Making your team more mobile, efficient and cost-effective.
- VoIP Adapter
One of the easiest ways to get VoIP on your business landline is a VoIP adapter. It works as a bridge between your analogue lines and cloud phone. A small piece of hardware that provides internet calling, online fax, call routing and more.
- VoIP Phones
VoIP landline phones or IP phones look just like your usual office/desk phones. The difference is in the connection. Paired with the right internet and provider, VoIP phones can transform your landline. Additionally, you can save time and confusion by transferring your landline number to VoIP. Find out how to port your number here.
- Mobile / Desktop Applications
Another option to get your business landline connected to VoIP is through various devices. This can be done through mobile devices and desktop applications. Once you have your VoIP software installed, you are good to go. Just download the app on your preferred device to start making cloud-based calls straight away.
Connecting VoIP to Landlines is Simple.
VoIP can deliver significant benefits to your ordinary business landline. You can save money, enjoy better sound quality, enable remote working, and gain many Unified Communication features for better business communications.
Here are the top FAQs we are asked about connecting VoIP and business landlines:
How Do I Set Up VoIP On a Landline?
It’s simple! Test your internet and broadband quality. Work out what hardware (if any) is needed. Contact your chosen VoIP provider and ask about setup, plans and pricing. Oh, and don’t forget to disconnect from the PSTN service you are using.
How Do I Connect Multiple Landlines to VoIP?
Thankfully, VoIP makes multi-device simple. VoIP usually works through a centralised platform, allowing you to connect multiple landlines.
Do I Need a Landline if I Have VoIP?
VoIP doesn’t work on physical lines. So no, you don’t need a landline if you have a VoIP phone system. A VoIP service works on broadband, so you don’t need to have a traditional landline before setting up.
Can I Just Plug a VoIP Phone Into My Router?
Voice Over Internet Protocol is designed to call over the internet. VoIP phones can be plugged into a router or modem. This is done using an ethernet cable, enabling internet calling.
How Does VoIP Connect to PSTN?
If a call is made from a VoIP phone to a PSTN phone line, it converts from internet calling to line-based. The VoIP gateway will be converted to an analogue signal. VoIP sends digital packets converted into analogue and then it’s sent across PSTN lines.
Connect Blueface VoIP to Landline
Connecting your landline and VoIP is easier than you think. Saving on international calls, boosting call quality and adding tons of Unified Communications features. Most importantly, your business is ready for the future.
Blueface makes it easy to connect VoIP and landline. As a trusted VoIP provider, we provide an undisrupted service. With several VoIP options available, we cover small business retail stores to large call centres. Customers are backed with free, always-on support.
Contact our team for a free consultation on your current phone service and how Blueface VoIP can lower your next telephone network bill.
