Switching to VoIP doesn’t mean you have to give up your existing landline number. Porting your landline to VoIP allows you to keep your trusted business or personal number while benefiting from the flexibility and cost savings of internet-based calling. The process is straightforward but requires careful planning to avoid disruptions.
What Is VoIP?
VoIP is a communications technology that allows you to use your broadband connection rather than a landline to make phone calls. Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP for short, is an open standard for making calls over the Internet. VoIP is sometimes referred to as Voice over IP.
In a typical arrangement, a handset is connected to an internet router. Like a real landline, the handset or business phone system transmits your voice over the internet. The sole distinction is that the Internet, rather than a landline, serves as the underlying technology.
Are Landlines Being Switched Off?
Most providers plan to finish this transition by January 2027, essentially “switching off” the old analogue landline network. Traditional landlines are being phased out and replaced with digital technology called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which means landline calls will be delivered over a broadband connection.
Can I Keep My Landline Phone Number When Switching To VoIP?
You will typically be allowed to keep your current phone number. Phone number porting, which entails moving your old phone number to your new phone system, is an option available to you when you convert your landline number to VoIP. For long-standing companies that don’t want to take the chance of their current clients ceasing to communicate with them, this can be especially helpful.
Why Port Your Landline Number To VoIP?
There are a number of benefits to moving your current phone number over to VoIP. Keeping your client base’s brand continuity and familiarity is one of the fundamental justifications. You can maintain the number that your clients have been using to contact you for years, allowing for a smooth transfer with no interruption.
Additionally, there are many advantages to moving to VoIP. Compared to traditional landline lines, it is typically more affordable, frequently providing lower call rates as well as fewer setup and maintenance expenses. VoIP is the core technology that enables voice calls through your internet connection in your hosted or hybrid PBX phone system.
VoIP is also future-proof. VoIP is the way of the future for business communications since the PSTN and WLR3 will be discontinued in 2025. Your company will be ready for this unavoidable change if you port your landline number to VoIP.
How Can I Port My Landline Number To VoIP?
It only takes a few essential steps to convert your landline number to VoIP. Here’s how to switch over without any problems:
- Choose a VoIP Provider: Choose a trustworthy VoIP provider that caters to UK citizens first. To choose which service best suits your needs, compare them according to features, costs, and user feedback. BT, Vonage, RingCentral, and The VoIP Shop are a few of the leading providers.
- Set Up the Required Equipment: Once a provider has been selected, you will need to set up the required equipment. This could be a standalone VoIP phone or a VoIP adapter to use with your current phone. To guarantee seamless functioning, your selected supplier will provide comprehensive setup instructions.
- Port Your Landline Number: You must port your existing landline number to your new VoIP service in order to keep it. To begin the number porting procedure, get in touch with your VoIP provider.
How Much Does It Cost To Port My Landline Number?
Depending on your provider, transferring your phone number will cost different amounts. While some providers charge a one-time porting cost, others give the service for free when you join up. To retain your previous phone number, some will charge a monthly fee. The best course of action is to request a detailed pricing breakdown from your provider before beginning any work.
How Long Does It Take To Port a Landline Number To VoIP?
Regarding the timeline, it fluctuates. The procedure can be completed in a business day for a single number. However, it could take several business days if you need extra numbers or if your VoIP provider is busy.
