10 easy steps to set up a VoIP phone system

The cloud is more than just a buzzword of the decade.

It's the future that affects our daily lives, but it's often as deep as the explanation goes. What is the true advantage of the cloud? Why do companies choose to invest in cloud-based Unified Communications (UCaaS) platforms? Let's take a closer look at one such unified technology called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which is taking the cloud by storm.

What is a VoIP Phone System?

A VoIP phone system facilitates calling through the cloud instead of the traditional Private Branch Exchange (PBX), a private telephone network that historically connected many business landlines.

It is a part of Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) that connects business communications to the cloud. It centralizes calls, meetings and messages on a unified platform and allows companies to communicate with their teams, customers, suppliers, etc. through a single app on any internet-connected device.

With a VoIP phone system, users can easily switch between voice calls, video conferencing, or instant messaging without relying on landline or traditional cellular services.

Hacked solutions and reliance on personal devices are neither sustainable nor secure. A VoIP infrastructure provides businesses with the agility and flexibility to support a remote setting. It allows employees to take calls from anywhere. This cloud-based system keeps them connected and productive no matter how and where teams perform their work.

What do you need to set up a VoIP phone system?

There are two essential requirements for setting up a VoIP phone system. First, you need a secure and robust internet connection. It is the strength of your system. Second, you need a willingness to adapt to the future of work. The future of work is now, and it's more flexible than ever.

Your system should be scalable, provide easy access to features, ensure business continuity and security, all at an affordable price. This commitment to flexible computing sets your business apart.

How to Set Up a VoIP Phone System in 10 Steps

Setting up a VoIP system is easy when done correctly. Let's look at ten simple steps to effectively set up a VoIP phone system.

1. Assess your team's needs

Start by looking at your existing phone system. Do you have outdated landlines or employees working on personal devices away from their desks? All in all, you should ask yourself what the system does well and better.

Make sure you understand the scope of what you need. Are you just looking for an all-in-one phone system or unified communication tool with video conferencing, chat contact centers, and more? ?

Understand the importance of mobility for your business. Do you have a flexible, hybrid or mobile workforce that could benefit from a flexible solution? By documenting the positives, negatives, and negatives of your current solution, you can set yourself up for success.

2. Research VoIP Types

Now that you've identified the problem you're trying to solve, it's time to do your research. Understand how VoIP works and the different systems available.

On-premises: A default option for enterprises, often known as legacy systems, where a company purchases the hardware, including servers and switches, and hosts the service on-premises. The owner is responsible for maintenance, updates and security. VoIP: VoIP is the technology that transmits calls over data networks instead of traditional phone lines. VoIP can be on-premises or cloud-based. Hybrid: Businesses can choose to invest in an on-premises system or combine it with a cloud-based solution. Hosted VoIP: A cloud-based solution, allowing businesses to forego on-premises equipment. A hosted VoIP provider hosts, maintains and updates offsite software and hardware and provides remote voice connectivity. 3. Establish a VoIP budget

When comparing VoIP systems, it's essential to keep the different costs in mind, not just the upfront costs. A system's future flexibility, scalability, and business continuity also affect your overall VoIP spend.

An on-site system requires initial investments, including equipment and maintenance...