Fixed VoIP vs Non-fixed VoIP – which is better for your business?
If you are looking to update your business phone systems, the likelihood is that you have come across the option to switch to VoIP. However, before you make the switch, you first need to choose whether you want a fixed or non-fixed number. So, which is better? Let us discuss.
What is the difference between fixed and non-fixed VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol, which is a popular PSTN replacement for both homeowners and businesses in the modern world. Unlike traditional landlines, VoIP is hosted in the cloud, sending voice and data over the internet.
At its most basic, a fixed VoIP is linked to a specific geographic location such as a house, office, or headquarters. The number will likely reflect that, showing as a local number with a local base.
On the other hand, a non-fixed VoIP is only linked to a virtual address – that is, an email address. In this sense, the number cannot be traced to a specific location, making the business seem as though it has multiple headquarters across the country or world.
Pros and Cons of Fixed VoIP
- Identifiable – As your phone number will be linked to a physical location, this means your number will appear as authentic. For businesses, this makes you more credible as a brand.
- Emergency service calling – Emergency services can use your phone number to find out your location in times of trouble, thus ensuring the safety and security of your company and its employees.
- Advanced features – Fixed VoIP services often include more advanced features like routing and SIP trunking.
- Expensive for long-distance calls – As calls will originate from an identifiable local number, international calls can be more expensive.
- No local presence when expanding – If you move offices or expand your business, you will have to change your number, as your current phone number will be linked to the building you occupy at this moment.
- Set-up costs – Fixed VoIPs can be a bit more tricky to set up. As they take more time to get running, it can work out more expensive.
Pros and Cons of Non-Fixed VoIP
- Local presence – Your phone number will not be linked to a physical location – you don’t even need an office! This means you can easily make it appear as though you are a local business without needing to actually reside in the area.
- Cheaper international calls – Calls cannot be traced to a place of origin, which can make international calls a lot less expensive.
- Cost effective – Non-fixed numbers are great for small businesses, as many suppliers will offer smaller, low-cost deals. Check out some pricing packages here, https://www.ringcentral.com/voip-business-phone-service.html.
- Ease of set-up – Phones can be installed and set up quickly and easily, without much hassle, and without having to break the bank.
- Not attached to address – As your number is not linked to a legitimate business address, customers may assume that your number is dangerous or harassing. Untraceable numbers are a favourite of scammers, spammers, and cold-callers.
- No way to trace – Emergency services require your location in order to trace your call. As this number is not linked to a geographic location, this can cause some problems in an emergency.
As you can see, both fixed and non-fixed VoIP have their own positives and negatives attached to them. Ultimately, it depends on your business, what you want to achieve, how you see yourself going forward, and the way you wish for customers to view your company.
