9 common VoIP misconceptions debunked

Misconceptions often cast shadows of doubt on technologies like VoIP. These myths talk of unreliability and costliness can obscure the true potential of VoIP. However, we're here to dispel these misconceptions and give insight into the reality of VoIP's cost-effectiveness and reliability. Find out more in this blog.

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Introduction

Misconceptions about VoIP, such as its unreliability and costliness, have unfortunately created a negative perception of this technology. This misrepresentation has been known to deter businesses, particularly small ones considering VoIP investments, from recognising its true potential. 

But in reality, VoIP is a highly dependable system that can significantly reduce your business expenses. Beyond its cost-saving benefits, VoIP offers a vast range of advantages, as you will discover in the course of this blog. It serves as an invaluable tool for optimising your communication processes in the most efficient way possible.

Through our research and common questions we have encountered from customers, we've compiled together the nine most common myths about VoIP. So today, we aim to debunk some of those tales surrounding VoIP and reveal why they hold no merit.

1. VoIP is difficult to set up

We understand that embracing change can be challenging. However, we've consistently heard from our customers that they wish they had switched sooner. One of the common barriers they faced was the perception that setting up VoIP is overly complicated.

The truth is that configuring VoIP is far more straightforward than you might imagine. With the right provider and support, the process becomes straightforward and hassle-free. Typically, it can be accomplished in just a few steps, and you'll be up and running quickly. While a few aspects require more attention, a reliable VoIP provider can ensure a seamless and uncomplicated transition.

2. VoIP is only for large firms and not small businesses

Again, not true! According to FounderJar, 63% of startups use VoIP as their primary form of communication, with a further 24% planning to implement VoIP soon. 

Small companies can benefit as much as larger firms for their VoIP systems. In fact, it's particularly advantageous for small businesses because VoIP offers a wide range of features that can enhance communications within the company while remaining budget-friendly. For example, small establishments can take advantage of features like auto-attendants to provide professional call routing and virtual conferencing tools that facilitate collaboration among remote teams.

Not only is it an excellent option for small businesses looking to improve their communications with a feature-rich phone system, but it's also a budget-friendly option. With a small monthly cost, it's cheaper than using a traditional phone line to communicate.

3. VoIP is expensive

Expanding from our last point, it's important to emphasise that VoIP offers a level of cost-effectiveness that may exceed your expectations. Traditional landlines are usually much more expensive than VoIP, as they often come with costly monthly bills, additional long-distance call fees, and potential repair expenses. 

In contrast, VoIP provides a significantly better value for your money, offering a cost-effective phone system that can lead to savings of up to 65% for businesses - making it the most cost-effective phone system you can choose.

What sets VoIP apart is that it includes many features that would typically require additional fees from external providers. Plus, VoIP's internet-based calling capabilities enable you to make calls worldwide without incurring premium charges. 

Many people also think that VoIP is expensive because it's costly to set up. Yes, it can be a larger expense if you're investing in new hardware or an on-site PBX. However, with the introduction of cloud-based communications, there is no need for costly equipment.  

9 common VoIP misconceptions debunked: Blog by T2k the communication experts

4. VoIP has poor call quality

Studies show that 60% of customers prefer to reach a business by phone. If your call quality is not up to standard, it will leave your customers feeling frustrated. The fact is that 58% of customers will end their relationship with a brand due to poor customer service. So it's unsurprising that businesses are concerned about switching if they think call quality could be compromised. 

That is why we want to dispel this misconception and clarify the matter. So let us put your mind at ease - this is false, and we want to explain why. This misconception likely stems from those with subpar internet speeds, as VoIP relies on a stable internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 100 Kbps for optimal performance. VoIP depends on good internet performance, so we recommend assessing your internet speeds before making the switch to ensure they meet the requirements.

To put your mind at ease, it's important to note that VoIP calls deliver crystal-clear audio under suitable internet conditions. In fact, VoIP operates within a broader frequency spectrum, spanning from 300 to 7000 Hz, a range substantially more expansive than that employed by traditional phone calls, which typically cover only 300 to 3400 Hz. This expanded frequency range contributes significantly to the superior audio quality VoIP offers compared to its traditional counterpart.

To improve call quality further, many VoIP handsets also have noise-cancelling features that will enhance the sound quality of every call. With a good broadband internet connection, voice traffic will be consistently crystal-clear.

5. VoIP is not secure

As data breaches are on the rise and a concern for businesses, it is only natural to prioritise the security of your business communications when considering VoIP. So, does VoIP provide the protection you need to protect your data and maintain a positive business reputation? The answer might be somewhat surprising.

Thanks to advanced encryption technology, VoIP service providers ensure top-notch security. This technology serves as a protective shield for any data transferred between two devices, effectively locking it away from external threats. Most providers also offer two-factor authentication, call encryption and detailed logs, making it increasingly more secure. 

VoIP providers also maintain a watchful eye over your servers, continually monitoring for any suspicious activities. This proactive approach to security sets VoIP apart, making it a more secure choice when compared to traditional landlines.

The best part? With VoIP, you won't need to worry about setting up a separate PBX or firewall - your VoIP service provider manages all these aspects seamlessly, ensuring comprehensive security without the hassle.

9 common VoIP misconceptions debunked: Blog by T2k the communication experts

6. You cannot transfer your old number to VoIP

Understandably, after having the same phone number for a long time, you will want to keep it the same. Quite rightly so. It can be a hassle to update all customers, stakeholders and employees that your phone number has changed just because you changed the phone system. A few years back, companies were known to keep your phone number hostage, but that is not the case anymore. So, good news, that is another myth we are here to debunk!

When switching to VoIP, you can keep your old number. This process is known as 'porting'. Once your number has been transferred to VoIP, you can use that number anywhere, and you are not fixed to one location. 

When switching to VoIP with T2k, we will guide you through completing the number transfer request for a seamless and easy transition.  

7. You have to update all hardware when switching to VoIP

The great thing about VoIP is that you can use it with your existing hardware, but you must ensure it is compatible first. While some businesses choose to upgrade their equipment for better performance, many VoIP systems are compatible with analogue phones and other legacy devices. This can reduce the initial cost of transitioning to VoIP.

If you want to use your conventional telephone systems in the cloud, you'll require an Analog Telephone Adapter. However, this doesn't prove to be a cost-efficient choice in many instances. VoIP devices are budget-friendly and may even come at no expense with certain subscription plans.

Want to discover what option is best and most cost-effective for you? Get in touch with us today

8. Most businesses do not use VoIP

More people are using VoIP than you think. You have most likely used it, too, without knowing it because every time you make a call over the internet (such as Facetime, WhatsApp calling, etc.), you are using VoIP. 

VoIP users are on the rise, and it is estimated that a significant majority of businesses have already adopted VoIP or plan to do so in the near future. Embracing VoIP can give your business a competitive edge and keep you in step with industry trends.

9. VoIP is unreliable

Reputable business phone service providers offer an impressive 99.9% uptime, provided you have a broadband internet connection. VoIP systems have built-in redundancy mechanisms that ensure uninterrupted business operations, shielding you from potential disruptions caused by power outages or other service issues.

In the rare event of a power outage, you can effortlessly forward calls to your mobile phone or a laptop connected to Wi-Fi, maintaining connectivity. However, suppose you have concerns about handling power outages effectively. In that case, we recommend reading our blog "How to stay connected to VoIP during a power outage," which provides valuable insights on managing such situations.

The VoIP phone system has saved us serious expenditure and has changed the way we work for the better.
Steve Knell - Altogether Care
5.0
on Google

Ready to get started with VoIP? T2k is here to help 

As you can see, many misconceptions surround VoIP, but the truth is that VoIP is an invaluable communication system designed to elevate your business operations.

Are you ready to embrace the next step in your communications? Our team at T2k is ready to guide you through this transition with expertise and care. We're dedicated to ensuring your shift to VoIP is seamless, and we're committed to helping you identify the perfect VoIP phone system tailored to your business needs.

Contact us today for a no-obligation chat about VoIP phone systems.

Lee Clarke
Sales Director

Having worked for T2k for nearly 25 years, it's fair to say that Lee is an expert when it comes to all things telephony and business communications. Overseeing the commercial side of the business, he has helped the company evolve and grow through the decades. In recent years, and with the advent of VoIP and hosted telephony, Lee has made sure that T2k is at the forefront of technological developments. With a firm interest in helping businesses navigate the world of telecoms, Lee is responsible for the majority of the content on this website.

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