Updated: 11/26/24
These days, everything is connected to the internet. Your thermostat, fridge, video game consoles – you name it, it’s connected to WiFi. And considering the worldwide VoIP industry reached $13.7 billion this year, it’s no surprise that many of our customers want to know if they can use their VoIP phone system over WiFi.
We consider this to have a somewhat complicated answer because the question can mean different things to different people. Regardless, let’s dive into the subject and look at how business VoIP phone systems work with WiFi.
Confused about how VoIP and Wi-Fi work? Talk to a telecom expert to get clear answers and find the best setup for your business.
Do VoIP Phones Work Over Wi-Fi?
Yes, VoIP phones can work over Wi-Fi, and in some cases, it’s an excellent solution. Wi-Fi IP phones are especially popular for small satellite offices, remote workers, and temporary setups where installing wired connections may not be practical. Leading brands like Poly and Yealink offer reliable wireless VoIP phone models to meet these needs.
Do IP Phones Need a Wired Internet Connection?
While VoIP phones work best with a wired internet connection, they can also operate wirelessly. Wired connections are generally preferred for their reliability and superior call quality. However, businesses looking to save on cabling costs or operating in spaces where wiring isn’t possible can still make wireless setups work with a stable, high-quality Wi-Fi network.
What Are the Challenges of Using VoIP Over WiFi?
Although Wi-Fi can support VoIP, it’s not without challenges, especially if the connection is unstable. Around 6% of businesses say they experience poor call quality when making calls with VoIP phones.
A few challenges of using VoIP over an unstable WiFi connection include:
- Jitter: Choppy or fragmented audio caused by inconsistent data packet delivery.
- Packet Loss: Missing data packets during transmission can result in audio gaps, distortion, or stuttering.
- Latency: High latency leads to delays or echoes, making conversations feel unnatural and frustrating.
How to Avoid These Issues:
- Opt for a wired connection whenever possible.
- Use a high-quality router and ensure your wireless device maintains a strong, consistent connection.
- Test your network regularly to identify and address weak spots.
Are There Wireless IP Phones?
Here’s where people tend to mince their words and get confused. Yes, there are wireless IP phones. But they’re similar to wireless phones you may have in your house, as opposed to something like a smartphone.
You still have to connect wireless VoIP phones physically to get an internet signal, and only the handset itself is wireless. Essentially, they’re connected to the phone via an ethernet wire and are not truly wireless.
IP phones work by using a cell phone to access your business VoIP phone system via a mobile application. You get all the critical features this way, including transfer commands, voicemail, and outbound caller ID, making it an ideal solution for work-from-anywhere employees.
Should Your Business Use VoIP Over Wi-Fi?
Most offices prefer a wired network to guarantee reliable phone calls. In our experience, small offices under 15 people and remote offices go wireless and there are ways to get the wireless functionality you need to prepare your business for the new world of work with a cloud phone system.
The Power of Cloud Phone Systems for Modern Businesses
VoIP technology is just one part of the modern communication equation. Cloud phone systems take it a step further by combining VoIP with advanced collaboration tools. These systems allow employees to make and receive calls from any device, ensuring seamless communication whether your team is in the office or working remotely.
Key Benefits of Cloud Phone Systems:
- Mobility: Employees can work from anywhere with app-based technology.
- Collaboration: HD video, file sharing, instant messaging, and more to keep teams connected.
- Scalability: Easily adjust your system as your business grows or changes.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reduce infrastructure expenses with subscription-based pricing.
Helping Your Business Thrive With VoIP and Cloud Solutions
TeleCloud’s flexible cloud phone systems are built to provide ambitious businesses with fully integrated solutions. We’ll help you support your remote and hybrid workers with dependable, app-based communication technology that enhances team collaboration with HD video, clear audio, file sharing, instant messaging, and more.
To learn more about the benefits of VoIP phones and cloud phone systems, please don’t hesitate to connect with our experts. Just click the button below, and we’ll happily answer any questions or explore your options with you.
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