7 Common VoIP Myths Fact-Checked

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has fundamentally changed the way businesses and individuals communicate. But even with its growing popularity, several myths exist around its capabilities and limitations.

In this article, we debunk seven common VoIP myths, separating fact from fiction. Whether you’re a small business owner considering VoIP for the first time or a seasoned professional looking to optimize your current setup, this fact-checked guide will help you make informed decisions about leveraging VoIP technology to enhance your communication needs.

In this article, we will explain the technology and guide you in selecting the right VoIP system for a small business.

1) VoIP is Only For Big Businesses

False 🚫

While VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) was once considered the domain of large corporations due to its initial complexity and cost, technological advancements have significantly democratized access to VoIP services. Nowadays, VoIP is an excellent option for small businesses and independent traders. With the evolution of broadband internet, the costs associated with VoIP have decreased, making it affordable for smaller entities. Additionally, the rise of user-friendly VoIP solutions means that even those without extensive technical expertise can set up and maintain VoIP systems. Many VoIP providers now offer scalable packages that cater to the specific needs of smaller businesses, from flexible pricing plans to features that were once reserved for larger enterprises. Therefore, VoIP has become a practical and accessible communication solution for businesses of all sizes.

2) Setting Up A New VoIP System Is Expensive

False 🚫

Many believe that setting up a VoIP phone system is prohibitively expensive, but this is a common myth. In reality, VoIP can be a highly cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. With the right setup and plan, VoIP calls can help you save up to 50% on your monthly telephone bill.

VoIP is ideal for businesses aiming to reduce communication costs. It uses the internet to transmit calls, eliminating the need for expensive hardware or outdated phones, and avoiding costly landlines and long-term contracts.

The cost of setting up a VoIP system depends on the necessary infrastructure. Depending on your business size, you might need additional VoIP-compatible hardware, such as IP desk phones and VoIP handsets. However, these costs are usually offset by the savings on your monthly phone bill.

Moreover, VoIP offers features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, audio and video calls, and interactive voice response (IVR) with customizable menus, enhancing both team connectivity and customer experience.

3) VoIP is Less Robust Than Traditional PBX

False 🚫

It’s a common misconception that VoIP systems are less reliable than traditional PBX (Private Branch Exchange). Modern VoIP technology has evolved to offer robust and reliable service compared to traditional phone systems. VoIP systems now include advanced features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and auto-attendant, which were once exclusive to traditional PBX systems. Furthermore, with the advent of high-speed internet and improved network infrastructures, the reliability and call quality of VoIP have significantly improved. Many VoIP providers also offer redundancy and failover mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted service. As a result, VoIP systems are now seen as a viable and often superior alternative to traditional PBX systems for businesses of all sizes.

4) You Will Lose Your Existing Phone Number by Switching to VoIP

False 🚫

Switching to VoIP does not mean losing your existing phone number. Number portability allows users to retain their current phone numbers when switching from traditional phone services to VoIP. This process, known as porting, is supported by most VoIP providers and ensures a seamless transition without disrupting business operations. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that service providers allow users to port their numbers, making it easier for businesses to switch to VoIP without the hassle of changing their contact information. As a result, businesses can enjoy the benefits of VoIP while maintaining their established phone numbers.

5) VoIP Allows You To Connect From Anywhere

True ✅

One of the significant advantages of VoIP is its flexibility and mobility. VoIP allows users to make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection, making it an ideal solution for remote work and businesses with distributed teams. This mobility is facilitated by VoIP apps and softphones, which can be installed on smartphones, tablets, and laptops, enabling users to stay connected on the go. VoIP also supports features such as call forwarding and virtual extensions, ensuring that calls are routed to the appropriate device regardless of location. This flexibility enhances productivity and ensures seamless communication, making VoIP a valuable tool for modern, mobile workforces.

6) You Can Use VoIP Without A Physical Phone

True ✅

VoIP technology allows users to make and receive calls without the need for a traditional physical phone. Softphones, which are apps that run on PCs, tablets, or smartphones, enable users to handle VoIP calls directly from their devices. These softphones often come with advanced features such as video calling, instant messaging, and contact management, providing a comprehensive communication solution. Additionally, many VoIP providers offer web-based portals that allow users to manage calls and settings from any device with internet access. This eliminates the need for dedicated hardware and provides greater flexibility and convenience for users.

7) VoIP Is Cheaper For International Calls

True ✅

VoIP is known for its cost-effectiveness, particularly for international calls. Unlike traditional phone systems that rely on expensive long-distance rates, VoIP routes calls over the internet, significantly reducing the cost. Many VoIP providers offer competitive pricing plans with unlimited international calling to certain regions or low per-minute rates. This makes VoIP an attractive option for businesses and individuals who frequently make international calls. The cost savings are further enhanced by the elimination of traditional infrastructure costs and the ability to use existing internet connections. Consequently, VoIP offers a more affordable and efficient solution for international communication.