VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) enables voice calls through your broadband internet connection rather than traditional phone lines. This guide explains how it works and why businesses are making the switch.
What is VoIP?
VoIP technology converts your voice into digital data packets and transmits them over the internet. When you make a VoIP call, your voice is digitized, compressed, and sent to the recipient—then reassembled into audio on the other end.
The result? Crystal-clear calls that cost a fraction of traditional phone service, with features that would be impossible on legacy systems.
VoIP vs. Traditional Phone Systems
| Feature | VoIP | Traditional Landline |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | Uses existing internet connection | Requires copper phone lines |
| Long-distance costs | Included in flat rate | Per-minute charges |
| Setup cost | Low (plug-and-play phones) | High (wiring, installation) |
| Voicemail-to-email | Included | Not available |
| Video conferencing | Built-in | Requires separate service |
| Remote work support | Full functionality anywhere | Limited to office location |
| Scalability | Add/remove lines instantly | Requires technician visit |
| Mobile app | Use your business number on any device | Not available |
How to Make a VoIP Call
Making a VoIP call is as simple as using a regular phone:
- Connect your IP phone to your internet network (Ethernet or WiFi)
- Configure your phone with your provider's settings (usually automatic)
- Dial the number just like a traditional phone
- Talk – the technology handles everything in the background
Most VoIP systems include a contact directory, so you can also dial by name or use click-to-call from your computer.
Key VoIP Features for Business
Auto-Attendant
Professional greeting that routes callers to the right department. "Press 1 for Sales, Press 2 for Support..."
Voicemail-to-Email
Voicemails delivered as audio files to your inbox. Listen, forward, or archive messages like email.
Call Forwarding
Route calls to your cell phone, home office, or another team member. Never miss an important call.
Conference Calling
Multi-party conference calls included. Bring together team members, clients, and vendors on one call.
Call Analytics
Track call volumes, hold times, and performance metrics. Make data-driven decisions about staffing.
Mobile App
Your business phone number on your smartphone. Make and receive calls from anywhere using your work number.
Primary Benefits of VoIP
- Cost savings – Significant reductions in monthly phone bills, especially for long-distance
- Location independence – Work from anywhere with full phone system access
- Easy scaling – Add phones in minutes as your business grows
- Professional features – Enterprise-grade capabilities at small business prices
- Reliability – Modern VoIP offers 99.9%+ uptime with failover to mobile
Choosing a VoIP Provider
When evaluating VoIP providers, consider:
- Your specific needs – Number of users, features required, remote work support
- Provider reliability – Uptime guarantees, redundancy, disaster recovery
- Pricing model – Per-user vs. unlimited, included features vs. add-ons
- Support quality – Local support vs. offshore call centers, response times
- Trial availability – Test the service before committing
NEXpbx: VoIP Built for Central Florida
NEXpbx is NexgenTec's business VoIP solution, designed for small and medium businesses in Leesburg, The Villages, Clermont, and the surrounding area. We offer:
- Local, on-site installation and training
- Flat-rate pricing starting at $27.99/phone/month
- All features included—no nickel-and-diming
- 24/7 support from our Central Florida team
Want to see your actual savings?
Get a custom quote based on your specific needs.