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VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is the term used to describe the transport of voice over the IP network. Previously, the telephony world generally used an analogue (PTSN) or a digital (ISDN) phone line. With the new developments of VoIP, both voice and other digital information are transmitted over the same infrastructure. Other terms for VoIP include Internet calling, Hosted VoIP, calling via the Cloud or SIP (calling).

The necessities of VoIP telephony consist of hardware, software and infrastructure. First, hardware is required to perform the desired operations. Besides a required Xelion server, this may consist of a VoIP desk phone, but also a laptop/computer or smartphone may be sufficient to make calls over the Internet Protocol. This depends entirely on the needs and manner of use.

As for software, there are several VoIP providers on the market. Depending on the needs and requirements, the most appropriate software package can be chosen.
Furthermore, the infrastructure is required. For example, sufficient bandwidth must be present, good cabling, a VOIP-ready network, a phone number must be present and also calling minutes with a provider to enable calling.

VoIP calling in everyday use works no differently than traditional solutions. However, VoIP is a newer developed protocol in which the technical background is completely different from what we are used to from the past. For end users, there is no particular difference, except for the most commonly heard comment that on traditional calling, it was possible to choose to put the handset next to the device in order to no longer be reachable. While this is not possible with VoIP, although just with a simple push of a button “do not disturb” can also be arranged.

What the exact cost of VoIP calling is depends on a number of factors, including the software platform, calling minutes and hardware costs. The total cost of VoIP calling in many cases is lower.

A great advantage of a VoIP telephone system is that employees can call from the business landline number at any time, in any place, using many different devices. This creates a professional impression towards customers.

In addition, VoIP has a wide range of features. For example, one can see at a quick glance who is calling and who is available. In addition, ongoing calls can be tracked, wallboards can be set up, routings can be set up, the entire communication history can be retrieved and so on.

The possibilities are too many to mention, and can be deployed specifically as desired. Beyond the extensive functionalities within the package, the software can be linked to other software packages, such as CRM/ERP packages. This provides a great deal of efficiency and productivity on the work floor. Apart from the benefits mentioned above, the costs can also be lower. (See question: what are the costs of VoIP calling).