Whether you are a residential user or a businessman looking to shift away from the traditional telephone, there are several questions you likely have in mind. In this article, we will answer all of your questions and guide you towards the right choice. First, we will briefly go through what Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is and how it works. We will then explore in detail both fixed VoIP and non-fixed VoIP. Furthermore, we will also do a brief comparison, and evaluate which option is the most suitable for you. We will also detail how you can use one of the best VoIP services to meet your needs, and the functions available with the service. Let’s get started!
If you already know this and how VoIP works, you can jump straight to where we’ve explained fixed and non-fixed VoIP.
VoIP is a method of communication that uses the internet connection to transfer data from one point to another. In all likelihood, you have already used a VoIP service and probably use it from time to time. For example, commonly used apps such as Skype, Viber, or WhatsApp, are all VoIP services. While the technology was introduced in the 1990s, it only saw widespread adoption in recent years. This is because internet speeds have improved significantly over the preceding five years. Nowadays, many businesses and home users prefer to communicate over VoIP because it offers many advantages over traditional telephones, especially with regards to cost.
Unlike traditional PSTN (public switched telephone network) systems that transfer the data using copper wires, VoIP converts the voice data into individual packets that are transferred over the internet connection. This is why internet speeds can impact the quality of the calls. For example, problems such as packet loss or poor packet latency can lead to interruptions and delays. However, these problems are no longer commonly experienced. Improved internet speeds, better latency, and high-quality VoIP services take these issues into considerations. The result is that VoIP can provide high-quality voice calls, along with a range of other features such as video calling.
Most consumers get confused when they are bombarded by technical terms. If you are planning to use a VoIP service, the technical terminology can be quite daunting. But don’t worry as we will explain everything in detail. Whenever you choose to purchase a VoIP service, you will inevitably have to decide whether you want a fixed VoIP or non-fixed VoIP.
Fixed VoIP refers to a type of VoIP connection that has a physical address associated with it. Many people get confused that fixed VoIP cannot be moved. However, this is not true because the connection is portable. It is not physically fixed, but the term here refers to how an address is linked with the VoIP number in the service provider’s database. Just inform the service provider if you are planning to move, and they will update the address. A fixed VoIP system can be used by both residential and business users. It is a suitable stepping stone to shifting away from traditional landline connections. Fixed VoIP services are also in high demand by businesses because an area code is attached to the phone number. This means that companies that have to interact with local customers do not have to worry about reliability. In other words, customers and clients are more likely to answer your calls and rely on communication because of a lower likelihood of fraud. Emergency services are also able to trace the location of your call if you are using this service. Someone from another country, whether it is an individual or a company, cannot use a fixed VoIP service because they are not physically present.
Now that we have discussed fixed VoIP, let’s find out more about non-fixed VoIP.
A non-fixed VoIP service does not have an address associated with the contact number. Non-fixed VoIP services can be used by both residential and business users too. Additionally, any geographic location can be linked to the number. Popularly used VoIP apps such as WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, and others are examples of non-fixed VoIP services. A non-fixed VoIP service is typically used by businesses that have customers and clients in different parts of the world. They can cater to a broader demographic because they do not need to have a physical presence when using non-fixed VoIP. However, it is difficult for emergency services to respond because they are not associated with an address. Tracing the call can thus be difficult. Non-fixed VoIP has a reputation for being used for criminal activities. However, there has been significant progress in the technology that has resolved many loopholes.
All this is fine, but which option is more suitable for you? Whether you choose a fixed or a non-fixed VoIP service depends primarily on your needs. However, there are important factors that you need to keep in mind when deciding which one to choose. For example, you do not have to worry about the physical equipment that comes with the connection. It all depends on the service provider as the same devices are available for both fixed and non-fixed options. While non-fixed VoIP services do not have a great reputation because of their use by scammers, things have changed considerably and the stereotype no longer holds. Most reliable VoIP service providers have their in-built safety features that prevent inappropriate use of non-VoIP. In short, you do not have to worry about this aspect. One disadvantage of a non-fixed system is that emergency services cannot reach as no address is linked with the number. You would have to inform and train your workforce to use their mobile phones for emergency help if you opt for a non-fixed system at the office. One area where fixed VoIP services surpass non-fixed versions is service quality. Call quality, list of features, and safety are areas where non-fixed versions are no match for fixed service. The service provider you choose has a large impact on the quality and functionality of the service. As we discussed, new non-fixed VoIP services have overcome many security problems in recent years, but this does not mean there are no issues. Another problem is that the reputation with non-fixed VoIP can harm your business owing to reliability concerns.
In conclusion, both versions have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. You may have difficulty in deciding which option is the best. What if you could have both in one go? There are service providers that provide a non-fixed version of VoIP through virtual numbers. Just subscribe to their fixed VoIP packages and pay a small additional fee to obtain a virtual number as well. Now you may be wondering which service provider offers the best range of features.
Do not worry, we have got you covered!
Axvoice is an advanced VoIP service that offers a comprehensive set of features to suit the needs of both residential and business users. The service enjoys a solid reputation due to good customer reviews owing to clear call quality, affordable pricing plans, a broad array of features, and ease of use. Let’s briefly go through the pricing and the installation options for Axvoice before we move on to some of its salient features.
Axvoice offers two different business plans for its subscribers. The Home Office plan costs USD 14.99 per month and includes 200 minutes of free calls anywhere in the US or Canada. On the other hand, the Small Business Plan costs USD 29.99 per month and provides a whopping 1500 minutes of free calls anywhere in the US or Canada.
There are three residential plans available with Axvoice. The basic plan costs USD 5.99 per month, while the unlimited plan costs USD 8.25 per month. A pay-as-you-go package is also available at USD 4.99 a month.
A non-fixed VoIP number does not have an address associated with it. You can purchase a virtual number from Axvoice over and above your normal package at USD 3.99 per month. The virtual number can be linked to an area code of your choice. This way, you can enjoy the advantages of a non-fixed VoIP number as well.
As we promised, let’s go through some of the features available with Axvoice.
You can switch between two callers and do not have to hang up on either of them. Seamlessly move from one conversation to another with this feature.
The Caller ID will list the contact number and the identity of all incoming callers.
You can opt to reject incoming calls from unsaved contacts with this feature.
You can filter specified callers to reach a pre-designated line. This is useful if you want to engage a special client on your own.
Quickly block any number from reaching you again.
You can choose if more than one Axvoice number should ring for incoming calls.
You can set different ringtones for each number if you have more than one Axvoice numbers.
Let’s take a look at some of the important outgoing call features available with the service.
You can use this feature to prevent your number from showing up at the other end.
You can add another call to an existing call without hanging up on the previous one. The original line will stay connected if you drop the new call too.
You can block outgoing international calls if you want to save up on money.
This feature will immediately send your location details to emergency services the moment you place a call.
You can opt to show a different Axvoice number at the other end.
This feature will play music for all calls that are on hold. It’s useful for businesses that have to engage clients or customers.
You can choose different codecs if you want to use lower bandwidth and cut down on internet costs.
Axvoice provides many advanced features as well. For example, with the Failover management feature, all incoming calls will be directed to a different number in case of internet failure. Similarly, you can use your cell phone or PC to make calls while using your Axvoice subscription package. You can use the enhanced voicemail feature to go through all voicemails via any web browser. There are other features too, such as optional toll-free numbers, free in-network calls, and a complete call log, among others.
VoIP technology is the future of telecommunications. You may feel confused about whether you should opt for a non-fixed VoIP service or a fixed one. However, you can get the benefits of both by using services such as Axvoice.
