Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has modernized the way we communicate in this digital age. With VoIP technology, we can make voice calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. This has not only made communication more accessible but also cost-effective for businesses and individuals like many Online businesses, Accessories, General Products And Clothing Nike Tiffany Jacket, and Beth Dutton Costume However, as with any new technology, VoIP Services has its own set of challenges that need to be addressed.
What is VoIP Software?
VoIP software is a type of application that enables voice communication over the internet using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. It allows users to make voice calls, video calls, and send messages through an internet connection, instead of using traditional telephone lines. VoIP software can be used on a variety of devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers.
Overall, VoIP software has transformed the way we communicate by providing a cost-effective and convenient way to talk or to shop online Groceries, Clothes Ted Lasso Outfits, Electronics, and many more, VoIP helps to stay connected with others around the world.
The benefits of VoIP software
VoIP software offers several benefits over traditional phone lines, including:
Cost Savings:
VoIP software uses the internet to make and receive calls, which can significantly reduce long-distance and international call charges. Many VoIP providers offer free or low-cost calls to other users on the same network, further reducing costs.
Mobility:
VoIP software allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection, making it an ideal solution for remote workers, travellers, and those who work across multiple locations.
Wide range of features:
VoIP software often comes with a wide range of features, including call forwarding, voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, conference calling, and more. These features are often included for free or at a low cost, making it a more flexible and cost-effective solution than traditional phone lines.
Scalability:
VoIP software can be easily scaled up or down to meet the needs of a business or individual. This means that as a business grows, it can easily add new lines and users without the need for additional hardware or infrastructure.
Integration:
VoIP software can integrate with other communication tools, such as instant messaging and email, providing a unified communication solution. This allows for more efficient communication and collaboration between team members.
Overall, VoIP software is a cost-effective, flexible, and feature-rich solution for communication that is transforming the way businesses and individuals communicate.
The cost of VoIP software
The cost of VoIP software can vary depending on the provider and the features included. Some providers offer free or low-cost basic plans, while others may charge a monthly fee for additional features or more extensive calling capabilities.
Generally, the cost of VoIP software is lower than traditional phone lines. With VoIP, users can make calls using the internet, which is generally less expensive than traditional phone lines. VoIP software providers also typically offer plans with unlimited calling, which can be more cost-effective for businesses or individuals who make a lot of calls.
Typical Features of VoIP software
VoIP software typically offers a wide range of features to enhance communication and collaboration, including:
Call forwarding:
This feature allows users to forward incoming calls to another phone number or device.
Voicemail:
Voicemail allows users to leave a recorded message when a call is unanswered.
Caller ID:
Caller ID displays the caller’s name and phone number on the receiver’s phone or computer screen.
Call waiting:
Call waiting alerts the receiver of an incoming call while they are already on another call.
Conference calling:
Conference calling allows multiple users to participate in a single call.
Video Conferencing:
Video conferencing allows users to participate in a virtual meeting, with both audio and video capabilities.
Instant messaging:
Instant messaging allows users to send text messages in real time.
File sharing:
File sharing allows users to share files, such as documents and images, during a call or chat.
Call recording:
Call recording allows users to record and save a conversation for later reference.
Integration with other tools:
VoIP software can often integrate with other communication tools, such as email and instant messaging, providing a unified communication solution.
Top 17 Best Business VoIP Services
8×8
8×8 is a cloud-based VoIP software provider that offers a wide range of communication and collaboration features for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a brief review of the company, its pricing, and what it offers:
8×8 is a well-established VoIP software provider that has been in business for over 20 years. Its cloud-based solution offers a wide range of features, including voice and video calling, messaging, and collaboration tools. The software is user-friendly and can be customized to meet the specific communication needs of each business.
It offers several pricing plans to suit different business sizes and communication needs. The pricing is based on a per-user, per-month basis, and it varies depending on the plan and the features included.
What it Offers:
- Users can make high-quality voice and video calls from anywhere using the 8×8 app.
- Users can send and receive messages, files, and images using the app, making it easy to communicate with colleagues and clients.
- Several collaboration tools, including document sharing, virtual meetings, and screen sharing.
- Allows users to stay connected and productive while on the go.
- Advanced speech and interaction analytics.
- 30-day trial period.
RingCentral
RingCentral is a tool that offers a comprehensive set of features for businesses of all sizes.
RingCentral offers a user-friendly platform that is easy to set up and use. The system offers a wide range of features, including call management, video conferencing, team messaging, and file sharing. RingCentral also provides mobile apps that allow users to access the system on the go. The platform is highly scalable, making it suitable for small businesses as well as large enterprises.
RingCentral offers several pricing plans, depending on the needs of your business. The projects range from the Essentials plan, which starts at $19.99 per user per month, to the Ultimate plan, which starts at $49.99 per user per month. All plans offer unlimited calling within the US and Canada, as well as features such as voicemail, call forwarding, and online faxing.
What it offers:
- A variety of calling options, including voice, video, and online faxing.
- Team messaging and collaboration tools, allow teams to communicate in real time.
- Video conferencing feature allows users to conduct virtual meetings with up to 500 participants.
- Integration with a wide range of third-party applications, including Salesforce, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office 365.
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access the platform on the go.
- Provides advanced analytics and reporting features, allowing businesses to track usage, identify trends, and optimize communication workflows.
Intermedia Unite
Intermedia Unite is a VoIP phone system that offers a set of features for businesses.
Intermedia Unite offers a feature-rich platform that is easy to use and provides excellent call quality. The system offers a wide range of features, including call management, video conferencing, team messaging, and file sharing. Intermedia Unite also provides mobile apps that allow users to access the system on the go. The platform is highly scalable, making it suitable for small businesses as well as large enterprises.
Intermedia Unite offers several pricing plans, depending on the needs of your business. The plans range from the Basic plan, which starts at $29.99 per user per month, to the Enterprise plan, which starts at $47.99 per user per month.
What it offers:
- A variety of calling options, including voice, video, and online faxing.
- Team messaging and collaboration tools, allowing teams to communicate in real-time.
- Video conferencing feature allows users to conduct virtual meetings with up to 200 participants.
- Integrations with a wide range of third-party applications, including Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365, and Google Workspace.
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access the platform on the go.
- Advanced analytics and reporting features, allowing businesses to track usage, identify trends, and optimize communication workflows.
Nextiva VoIP
Nextiva VoIP is a cloud-based phone system that offers a comprehensive set of features for businesses of all sizes.
Nextiva VoIP offers a powerful platform that is easy to set up and use. The system offers a wide range of features, including call management, video conferencing, team messaging, and file sharing. Nextiva VoIP also provides mobile apps that allow users to access the system on the go. The platform is highly scalable, making it suitable for small businesses as well as large enterprises.
Nextiva VoIP offers several pricing plans, depending on the needs of your business. The plans range from the Essential plan, which starts at $19.95 per user per month, to the Enterprise plan, which starts at $27.95 per user per month. All plans offer unlimited calling within the US and Canada, as well as features such as voicemail, call forwarding, and online faxing.
What it offers:
- A variety of calling options, including voice, video, and online faxing.
- Team messaging and collaboration tools, allowing teams to communicate in real-time.
- Allows users to conduct virtual meetings with up to 250 participants.
- Integrations with a wide range of third-party applications, including Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365, and Google Workspace.
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to access the platform on the go.
- Advanced analytics and reporting feature
- s, allowing businesses to track usage, identify trends, and optimize communication workflows.
Vonage
Vonage is a cloud-based communication and collaboration platform that offers a wide range of services, including VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone systems, video conferencing, team messaging, and more.
Vonage offers a variety of plans to fit different business needs and sizes. Their pricing starts at $19.99 per user per month for their Mobile plan, which includes unlimited calling and texting within the US, Canada, and Mexico, and up to 1,500 minutes to landlines and mobile phones in 60+ countries.
What it offers:
- Offers a variety of add-on features, such as call recording, virtual receptionist, and call analytics, for an additional monthly fee.
- Vonage’s VoIP phone system allows you to make and receive calls over the internet using your computer, smartphone, or desk phone
- With Vonage’s video conferencing feature, you can host virtual meetings with up to 100 participants, share your screen, and record your meetings for later viewing.
- Vonage’s team messaging feature allows you to chat with your team members in real-time, share files, and collaborate on projects.
- With Vonage’s file sharing feature, you can securely share files with your team members and collaborate on projects.
Dialpad
Dialpad is a cloud-based phone system that offers businesses a modern alternative to traditional phone systems. It provides voice, video, and messaging services through a simple and intuitive interface.
It’s great for businesses looking to upgrade their phone systems to a cloud-based solution. It offers a range of features and integrations that make it easy to communicate and collaborate with team members and clients.
The standard package of a Dialpad is $20 per user per month. The pro package is $30 per user per month and for the Enterprise, the pricing package is based on the custom requirements of the customer.
What it offers:
- Dialpad allows users to make and receive phone calls and video calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Dialpad allows users to make and receive phone calls and video calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Dialpad’s AI-powered voice transcription service automatically transcribes voicemails and recordings into text, making it easier to manage messages and follow up with clients.
- It offers integrations with popular business tools like Salesforce, G Suite, and Slack, which makes it easy to manage communications in one central location.
- It allows businesses to customize their phone numbers, greetings, and call routing, which can help create a more professional image.
- Its mobile app allows users to make and receive calls and messages on the go, which can be useful for remote or mobile workers.
Phone.com
Phone.com is a cloud-based communication service provider that offers a range of features for businesses and individuals. Here is an overview of Phonecam’s review, price, and what it offers:
Phone.com offers a range of pricing plans, starting at $12.99 per user per month for its Basic plan, which includes 300 monthly minutes, 1 local or toll-free number, and basic features such as voicemail and call forwarding. Its most popular plan is the Plus plan, which starts at $19.99 per user per month and includes 500 monthly minutes, 2 local or toll-free numbers, and advanced features such as call recording and SMS messaging.
What it offers:
- Phone.com provides local, toll-free, and vanity phone numbers that can be used for voice and text communication.
- Features such as call forwarding, call screening, and call blocking help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- Its voicemail system allows users to customize their greeting and access their messages from anywhere.
- Users can send and receive text messages from their Phone.com number.
- Its conference calling feature allows users to host virtual meetings with multiple participants.
- Phone.com integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, Zendesk, and Zoho.
GoToConnect
GoToConnect is a cloud-based communication platform that offers a suite of voice, video, and messaging tools for businesses. It has received positive reviews from customers for its reliable service, intuitive interface, and excellent customer support.
It has three pricing plans. Starting at $19.95 per user per month, the standard plan starts at $25.95 per user per month and the premium plan starts at $35.95 per user per month.
What it offers:
- It provides a cloud-based phone system that allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere, using desktop and mobile apps.
- Users can host virtual meetings with up to 250 participants, using features such as screen sharing, chat, and recording.
- It’s messaging platform allows users to send and receive text messages, as well as share files and collaborate with team members.
- It integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
- Features such as call routing, voicemail, and call recording help users manage their calls more efficiently.
Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a virtual phone system designed for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and remote teams. Grasshopper has received positive reviews from customers for its ease of use, affordability, and excellent customer support. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with customers praising its professional features, seamless call forwarding, and reliable service.
Grasshopper has three pricing plans. It starts at $26 per month for its solo plan. The standard plan starts at $44 per month and the business plan starts at $80 per month.
What it offers:
- Grasshopper provides local and toll-free phone numbers that can be used for voice and text communication.
- Features such as call forwarding, call screening, and voicemail help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- Small Business plan includes the ability to create custom greetings and hold music, to provide a more professional image for the business.
- Grasshopper integrates with popular business tools such as Slack, Zapier, and Trello.
Aircall
Aircall is a cloud-based phone system designed for businesses of all sizes. Aircall has received positive reviews from customers for its easy setup, intuitive interface, and excellent customer support. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with customers praising its call quality, integrations, and advanced features.
One of the three pricing plan for AIrcall starts at $30 per user per month. The standard plan starts at $50 per user per month and the enterprise plan depends on the requirements of the project.
What it offers:
- Its provides a virtual phone system that allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere, using desktop and mobile apps.
- Features such as call routing, call transfer, and call queuing help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- It integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Slack.
- Its analytics feature provides detailed insights into call activity, including call volume, duration, and wait time.
- Its Enterprise plan includes advanced call center features such as automatic call distribution, call monitoring, and agent performance tracking.
Ooma
Ooma is a cloud-based phone system that offers voice over IP (VoIP) and unified communications services to businesses of all sizes. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with customers praising its affordable pricing, advanced features, and HD voice quality.
The basic pricing for Ooma is $19.95 per user per month, the pro plan is $24.95 per user per month and the Ooma Enterprise offers custom pricing depending on the requirement of the enterprise.
What it offers:
- Ooma provides a virtual phone system that allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere, using desktop and mobile apps.
- Features such as call forwarding, call transfer, and call recording help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- Ooma integrates with popular business tools such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and Salesforce.
- Ooma offers video conferencing for up to 25 participants with screen sharing and recording capabilities.
- Ooma’s Enterprise plan includes advanced call center features such as automatic call distribution, call monitoring, and agent performance tracking.
VirtualPBX
Virtual PBX is a cloud-based phone system designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Virtual PBX has received positive reviews from customers for its affordability, ease of use, and excellent customer support. It has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with customers praising its advanced features, call quality, and customization options.
The essential plan of VirtualPBX starts from $12.99 per user per month, the advanced plan starts from $19.99 per user per month and their enterprise plan varies as per the requirement of the company.
What it offers:
- Virtual PBX provides a virtual phone system that allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere, using desktop and mobile apps.
- Features such as call forwarding, call transfer, and call recording help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- Virtual PBX integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho.
- Virtual PBX’s analytics feature provides detailed insights into call activity, including call volume, duration, and wait time.
- Virtual PBX’s Enterprise plan includes advanced call center features such as automatic call distribution, call monitoring, and agent performance tracking.
CallHippo
CallHippo is a cloud-based phone system that offers voice over IP (VoIP) and virtual phone numbers to businesses of all sizes. It has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with customers praising its advanced features, call quality, and customization options.
The Bronze if for $10 per user per month, the Silver plan is for $18 per user per month, and the Platinum plan is custom based, as per the features required by the client.
What it offers:
- CallHippo provides a virtual phone system that allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere, using desktop and mobile apps.
- Features such as call forwarding, call transfer, and call recording help users manage their calls more efficiently.
- CallHippo integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho.
- CallHippo’s IVR feature allows businesses to set up a menu of options for callers, helping to route calls more efficiently.
- CallHippo’s analytics feature provides detailed insights into call activity, including call volume, duration, and wait time.
CloudTalk
CloudTalk is a cloud-based phone system that offers a variety of features to help businesses improve their customer service and communication.
The essential plan is $20 per user per month, expert plan is $40 per user per month, and the custom plan is dependent on the customized requirements of the client.
What it offers:
- Call management features such as call recording, call routing, and voicemail
- Integration with popular CRMs such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Pipedrive
- Analytics and reporting tools to help businesses track call performance and customer satisfaction
- Team collaboration features such as shared contacts and call notes
- Support for both inbound and outbound calls
- International phone numbers and multiple language support
FluentStream
FluentStream is a cloud-based phone system that provides advanced features for small to medium-sized businesses.
The essentials plan starts at $20 per user per month, the advanced plan starts from $30 per user per month, the expert plan starts from $40 per user per month, and the enterprise plan is a customized solution for your needs with different pricing plans.
What it offers:
- Advanced call routing features such as automatic call distribution, call forwarding, and caller ID
- Integration with popular CRMs such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho
- Interactive voice response (IVR) to direct calls to the right department or person
- Call recording, voicemail, and call analytics
- Conference calling and web conferencing features
- SMS messaging and virtual fax capabilities
Mitel
Mitel is a cloud-based phone system that provides a wide range of communication solutions to businesses of all sizes.
The essential plan of Mitel starts from $20 per user per month, premier plan starts from $30 per user per month, and elite plan starts from $50 per user per month.
What it offers:
- Advanced call routing features such as automatic call distribution, call forwarding, and caller ID
- Integration with popular CRMs such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics
- Interactive voice response (IVR) to direct calls to the right department or person
- Call recording, voicemail, and call analytics
- Conference calling and web conferencing features
- SMS messaging and team collaboration tools
FreshdeskVoIp
Freshdesk is a cloud-based customer support software that provides a range of tools and features to help businesses manage customer inquiries and support requests.
The Sprout plan is free and is for unlimited agents, however it has limited features. The Blossom plan starts at $15 per user per month, the Garden plan starts from $35 per user per month, and the Estate plan starts from $49 per user per month.
What it offers:
- Ticket management with automated routing and prioritization
- Multi-channel support for email, social media, phone, and chat
- Knowledge base management for customer self-service
- Collaboration tools for team members to work together on tickets
- Reporting and analytics to track performance and customer satisfaction
- Integration with popular CRMs and other software solutions
Considerations when purchasing VoIP software
When purchasing VoIP software, there are several considerations to keep in mind, including:
Cost:
Consider the upfront and ongoing costs of the software, including any hardware requirements, monthly fees, and additional features or services.
Features:
Make sure the software offers the features and capabilities that meet your communication needs. Consider the features discussed earlier such as call forwarding, voicemail, caller ID, video conferencing, and file sharing.
Reliability:
Check the reliability and uptime of the software, including the provider’s reputation, the availability of customer support, and any service level agreements (SLAs).
Integration:
Consider how well the software integrates with your existing communication tools, such as email and instant messaging.
Security:
Check the security features of the software, including encryption, firewalls, and authentication, to ensure that your communication data is protected.
Scalability:
Consider how easily the software can be scaled up or down to meet your changing communication needs.
User interface:
Consider the user interface of the software and how easy it is to use, as this can impact adoption and user satisfaction.
Compatibility:
Consider the compatibility of the software with your existing hardware and operating system.
Relevant VoIP software trends
There are several relevant VoIP software trends to keep in mind:
Cloud-based VoIP:
Cloud-based VoIP is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness than traditional on-premise solutions.
Integration with other communication tools:
VoIP software is increasingly integrating with other communication tools, such as instant messaging and email, to provide a more unified communication solution.
Artificial intelligence (AI):
AI is being integrated into VoIP software to enhance the user experience, with features such as automatic transcription of voicemails and real-time language translation.
Advanced analytics:
VoIP software is providing advanced analytics and reporting features, allowing businesses to track usage, identify trends, and optimize communication workflows.
5G technology:
The rollout of 5G technology is expected to increase the speed and reliability of VoIP calls, making it an even more viable solution for businesses and individuals.
WebRTC:
WebRTC is an emerging technology that allows for real-time communication via web browsers, making it easier for businesses and individuals to connect and collaborate.