One of the major benefits of VoIP is that it allows users to deploy cost-effective communication options via the Internet. Because of this huge cost-saving factor, many small businesses in the UK are curious about the maximum number of VoIP lines which can be utilised.
Is it Possible to Have More Than One VoIP Phone?
It is possible to have more than one VoIP phone if you have installed a VoIP phone system with multiple phones. With every business scale, VoIP adapts to their needs perfectly and does not need dedicated lines like traditional systems do, helping deploy multiple phones within a single internet connection.
How Can I Set Up More Than One VoIP Device?
For VoIP, there are two primary options available that allow for multiple devices to be connected.
IP Phones
IP phones are high-tech VoIP phones which are mostly used in office environments where employees usually work from fixed desks. These phones have advanced telecommunication features and are designed to provide high-voice-quality services.
Softphones
Softphones can be downloaded on most mobile devices, computers and tablets. If people are deployed remotely, a softphone would allow them to communicate without the use of physical phones while still being able to make VoIP.
Several VoIP providers in the UK also provide packages that appreciably extend the features for multiple device applications into one account which allows the entities to add phones as required hence lowering the expenditure.
How Many VoIP Lines Do I Need?
The number of VoIP lines you need will depend on factors like the size of your company, your expected call traffic, and the communication goals that you have. Here are some tips to determine the number of lines suitable for your business:
Know How Many Users There Will Be
For every worker or team that requires their own line, a different VoIP number must be allocated. For instance, it is likely that sales departments or customer support will have many lines, in case a great number of calls needs to be made.
Estimation of Call Volume
If your company has peak seasons for call traffic especially when launching new products or during festive seasons, then you will likely require more lines to reduce the risk of congestion.
Know The Scalability Options
It is usually quite easy to scale up your business with VoIP. This occurs when businesses often start with a basic number of lines and then expand that as the business grows. There are many VoIP providers in the UK that have distinct plans available depending on your line requirements.
Remote Access
If some of your employees work from remote locations, they may also have to be provided with separate VoIP lines. Remote team members can seamlessly use your primary business VoIP infrastructure with softphones without losing company image and uninterrupted service.
Benefits for Businesses Switching to VoIP Systems
There are many reasons why UK businesses should change to VoIP, from reduced expenses and the facilitation of scaling, among many more:
Reduced Expenses
Due to the use of an Internet connection instead of dedicated phone wires, VoIP systems are relatively cheaper to maintain than traditional phones. This eliminates call charges for internal calls and offers lower rates for external calls.
Easy expansion
VoIP enables you to add and remove as many lines and devices as your business requires. This is especially useful for expanding companies that may require extra lines in the future.
Flexibility and Locality
VoIP provides the convenience of allowing employees to receive business calls wherever they are in the world as long as there is internet access. They are especially convenient for remote workers, as softphones facilitate calls from mobile devices.
Improved Call Elements
When switching to VoIP, there are great benefits with internal business communications due to the advanced call management systems like call forwarding, voicemail to email, call conferencing, and call tracking statistics.
Unified Communication
Many VoIP providers offer unified communications, which integrate voice, video, and messaging into one system. Such integration enhances team engagement and reduces the hassle involved in managing communication.
What Are the Disadvantages of VoIP?
Despite the numerous advantages, VoIP for businesses also comes with some limitations, too:
Reliance on Internet Connection
Given that VoIP works over the web, a dependable and quick connection is required. Companies in regions with poor internet connection may suffer poor call quality or have calls that drop out.
Power Outages Affect VoIP
In most cases, traditional telephone lines will operate even when there is a power outage, but VoIP systems do need power. Companies have been working to turn this weakness into a competitive advantage by implementing backup power systems.
Possible Security Issues
Some VoIP calls can be hacked and are vulnerable to other forms of cyber crimes. Still, employing a reliable VoIP company which employs basic security measures, such as encryption, can help safeguard in that instance.
Basic Setup and Configuration
Organisations making the switch to VoIP for the first time may require time to train and configure them. However, the great majority of the providers of VoIP give customers the needed technical support and materials necessary for the switch.
