WiFi Calling and VoIP: What Sets Them Apart?

At Barclay Communications, we’ve observed a growing need towards a business VoIP phone system as companies increasingly adopt remote and hybrid work models. This transition often involves moving away from traditional PSTN and ISDN lines, in favour of more versatile and dynamic communication methods.

One such leading solution is VoIP, but alongside it, WIFI calling is also gaining traction. Although there is often some confusion between VoIP and WIFI calling, it’s important to understand their distinct differences.

Understanding VoIP: Voice Over Internet Protocol

VoIP, short for Voice over Internet Protocol, is a technology used by VoIP phone systems to facilitate phone calls through an Internet or 4G/5G data connection. It represents a suite of technologies that transform analog voice signals into digital data. Unlike traditional PSTN calling, VoIP doesn’t necessitate a dedicated physical phone line, making it a flexible option for modern communication needs.

Benefits of VoIP Calling:

  • VoIP calls require minimal Internet bandwidth, optimising data usage.
  • It offers versatility in device usage, enabling calls through smartphones, desk phones, and computers.
  • VoIP supports a broader range of sound frequencies than analog calls, enhancing call clarity and quality.
  • It is cost-effective, offering cheaper call rates compared to traditional phone systems.
  • VoIP systems bring advanced call features suitable for businesses of all sizes.

Challenges of VoIP Calling:

The quality of VoIP calls is heavily dependent on the stability of the Internet or data connection.
In emergency scenarios, the cloud-based nature of VoIP can make it challenging to pinpoint a caller’s location.
Some features of VoIP phone systems may be excessive for domestic or personal use, oriented more towards business requirements.

Exploring WiFi Calling

WiFi calling is a technology that enables voice calls using a WiFi network, as opposed to relying on traditional 4G or 5G cellular connections. It leverages VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology but is typically activated as a feature by your cellular provider or mobile phone network. Also known as VoWiFi, or Voice over WiFi, this method is increasingly popular for its convenience and accessibility.

Advantages of WiFi Calling:

  • WiFi calling can significantly enhance call quality in areas with poor network coverage.
  • It doesn’t require any extra hardware or software installations, making it user-friendly.
  • Utilising WiFi for calls can prolong the battery life of your mobile device.

Limitations of WiFi Calling:

  • The availability of WiFi calling is contingent on it being supported and enabled by your specific cellular network.
  • WiFi calling is restricted to your personal phone number and doesn’t extend to other numbers or lines.
  • Wi-Fi hotspots are not always available
  • Unlike business-focused VoIP solutions, WiFi calling does not offer additional features tailored for business use, focusing solely on basic call functionality.

Comparing VoIP and WiFi Calling

WiFi calling and VoIP serve different purposes and audiences. WiFi calling is primarily a feature provided by cellular networks or mobile phones, mainly used for personal or non-business-related communication. In contrast, VoIP technology is widely utilised in business contexts through a Business VoIP Phone System, offering a range of professional features such as call recording, call queuing, and interactive voice response (IVR) call menus.

A Business VoIP phone system enables multi-line calling and sophisticated, location-independent call handling, offering greater flexibility than WiFi calling. Unlike WiFi calling, which is linked to a personal number, VoIP allows users to maintain dedicated landline numbers and receive calls on a variety of devices, including VoIP phones, smartphones, and computers. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for organisations that require a more dynamic and versatile communication system.

While WiFi calling can enhance call quality for personal use, especially in areas with limited cellular coverage, it lacks the advanced features and scalability that businesses often need. For companies seeking to elevate their communication capabilities and boost productivity, a Business VoIP phone system is the preferred choice.

Switch To Business VoIP Phone System

With over two decades of rich experience in the telecommunications sector, encompassing mobile, landline, and job management, we are at the forefront of offering unified solutions. Our services extend to over 11,000 customers, managing more than 100,000 connections across diverse locations, including the US and UAE. Our expertise in the communications field has been consistently recognised, earning us multiple accolades for our commitment to customer service and innovation in product development.

At the core of our success are the strong partnerships with some of the industry’s leading networks and partners, coupled with our attainment of the highest level of accreditations. We pride ourselves on delivering only the highest quality products and services, a commitment made possible through our enduring relationships with top-tier suppliers.

Our cloud-hosted VoIP solutions are tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, whether they operate remotely, from an office, or a combination of both. Designed for simplicity and adaptability, our Business VoIP Phone System ensures your telecommunications are handled with ease and efficiency. These systems offer unparalleled flexibility and effectiveness, facilitating seamless and secure collaboration.

Communication is central to our ethos. We have strategically partnered with eminent players in the industry to bring our customers the most reliable and superior business mobile solutions available. Operating with complete independence, our team is dedicated to providing you with the best value and exceptional customer service.

Make the switch to VoIP today and transform your business telecommunications into a model of efficiency and innovation.

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