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What is VoIP?

landline phone
Written by
Martin Montemayor
Published on
December 3, 2025
Read Time
4
min read time
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‍The VoIP Basics

What is VoIP? VoIP is a communication technology that allows text or voice communications through internet protocol. It is also sometimes referred to as VoIP solutions, Voice over IP, or Voice over Internet Protocol. For a VoIP system to work correctly, a well-functioning VoIP infrastructure is needed. VoIP infrastructures are the backbone of any VoIP system.

VoIP infrastructures consist of the following components:

  1. IP phones or VoIP adapters: These are devices that allow you to make calls using your computer or a special VoIP phone.
  2. Switches: The switches direct the calls to the correct IP phones and servers.
  3. Routers: The routers connect the VoIP systems to the internet and allow the calls to be made.
  4. Servers: The servers host the various components of the VoIP system and manage the calls.

Diagram showing VoIP phones, laptops, and mobile devices connected through modems and routers to the internet.
VoIP infrastructure, VoIP setup, connection

Most of the components needed in a VoIP System are already provided by your Internet Service Providers (ISP) and VoIP Providers. While your ISP makes sure you have a stable internet connection, VoIP providers connect your local network to their VoIP servers that are responsible for handling your calls.

VoIP Ports

There are multiple VoIP ports or protocol used to transmit voice data over the internet or VoIP network. The two most commonly used protocols are H.323 and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). Modern VoIP technology used by most internet telephony works through SIP. H.323, on the other hand, is an older protocol that was developed in the 1990s. It is more complex and expensive to use, which is why most VoIP networks use SIP.

Are VoIP systems the same as a landline?

The main difference between VoIP phone service versus an analog phone service (traditional landline) is the type of signal they use to transmit your calls. On an analog phone service, the ringing from incoming calls, busy signal, dial tone, and voice audio are all transmitted through analog lines/wires which are connected to telephone networks. On the other hand, VoIP phone systems convert these signals into a digital data that travels through the Internet into interconnected IP networks.

What are the advantages of a VoIP phone system over a traditional phone system?

The main reason is that monthly phone bills of VoIP phone services cost about 60% less than your existing phone system. In addition, since VoIP calls run over the internet instead of the regular analog telephone network, your voice communication per minute costs will be extremely low because you can bypass long distance charges which are normally extremely high. This means you can make VoIP phone calls almost anywhere in the world at a lower cost with nothing more than a high-speed internet connection.

Another advantage is that, given the reliability of internet connections, VoIP systems have much clearer sound and better voice quality than traditional phone systems. Lastly, VoIP has many added features which providers usually offer for free (or minimal fee in some cases) such as call recording, auto-attendant, spam call bot, text messaging, mobile VoIP, e911, emergency services, VoIP caller ID and more. This is why many companies prefer VoIP as their primary business phone system, not only it is cheaper, it has more features too. Click this link for a more detailed explanation on why you should switch to VoIP phone systems.

Does a VoIP system slow down my internet speed?

You shouldn't notice any difference in your Internet speed when using VoIP. VoIP traffic within your IP network uses minimal internet data, so this will not cause congestion on your local area network nor compete with your other internet-related usage. If you're noticing that your VoIP usage is slowing down your internet speed, chances are that your connection isn't fast enough to support VoIP or your router isn't configured correctly for VoIP. Click this link to test your Internet speed for VoIP compatibility.

Gauge-style speed meter with a download button beneath it.
VoIP download speed, speed test, reliable internet connection

What is needed for VoIP phone systems?

With an internet-based IP phone, you can access your voice and data Anywhere! You'll need a modem for this service which is included in most internet plans. A VoIP software that allows users to make voice calls from VoIP telephones, laptop or desktop, smartphones, tablet or other mobile devices - perfect if someone isn't near their desktop PC at all times of day/night...or even worse: home office situation not working out? No problem -- VoIP powers these VoIP phones too so there's never been an easier way to get on board with modern communication trends.

Simple diagram connecting the internet to a modem and then to a VoIP phone with blue cables.
Direct network connection, internet, modem, VoIP phone

A stable internet connection is also needed to ensure smooth voice traffic during VoIP conversations. Use this link to test your connection, and setup is normally simple and easy once you sign up for a VoIP account from the VoIP provider of your choice.

Are VoIP calls free?

There is no simple answer to this question. Calls can be free in some cases, and in other cases, they may incur a charge. The cost of making a VoIP call will depend on the VoIP service provider that you are using, and the type of call you are making. Many VoIP services offer free calls to the US, Canada, and many other countries. However, other numbers are just too expensive to call and VoIP providers are not able to offer free calling to those destinations. If you are unsure whether a call will be free or not, it is always best to check with your VoIP service providers before making the call.

There are a few ways to make calls free of charge. One way is to find a VoIP provider that offers free calls to certain destinations. For example, Skype offers free calls to other Skype users, and Google Hangouts offer free calls to US and Canadian numbers. VoIPLy also offers free calls to US and Canada and 50++ countries. Click on this link to check if VoIPLy offers free calling to the number you intend to call.

Are VoIP calls secured?

There are a lot of different factors to consider when it comes to the security of VoIP calls. In general, VoIP calls are no more or less secure than any other type of phone call. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help you ensure that your VoIP calls are as secure as possible.

Cybersecurity, encryption, data privacy

One of the most important things to consider is the type of VoIP service you are using. If you are using a public VoIP service, your calls may be less secure than if you were using a private VoIP service. Public VoIP services often do not have the same level of security features as private VoIP services. This means that it may be easier for someone to eavesdrop on your conversations or even hack into your calls.

Another thing to keep in mind is the type of equipment you are using. Many VoIP phones have built-in encryption, which can help to protect your conversations from being intercepted. However, not all VoIP phones have this feature, so it is important to check with your service provider to see if your phone has it.

Finally, it is also important to be aware of the potential risks of using VoIP calls over the internet. While VoIP calls are usually transmitted over the internet, they are not always encrypted. This means that if someone were to intercept your conversations, they would be able to listen in. For this reason, it is important to make sure that you are using a secure VoIP service and that your conversations are encrypted.

What's next?

Visit our order page to signup for a Voiply account today and we'll fast ship you a VoIP phone adapter. You just need to connect it to your router and phone, it will instantly turn your regular phone into an IP phone, and that's it, you can start making VoIP calls.

We also offer a free app for your Apple or Android devices. Once you've downloaded the App, you just need to sign in and you may start making calls on your cell phone, computer, or mobile device.

For questions or other concerns, chat with our support or email us at support@voiply.com

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Martin Montemayor
Martin Montemayor is a creative and dedicated Customer Service Representative and Data Analyst at Voiply.
Customer Success and Data Analyst
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We have cut the cord with Xfinity’s ever raising prices for over 6 months now by using Voiply phone system. It was VERY easy to set up and works fine. We had an issue with not showing caller ID after 6 months and it was resolved within a day. I will definitely continue to extend our membership beyond the 1 year that we initially signed up.
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August 21, 2025
We have cut the cord with Xfinity’s ever raising prices for over 6 months now by using Voiply phone system. It was VERY easy to set up and works fine. We had an issue with not showing caller ID after 6 months and it was resolved within a day. I will definitely continue to extend our membership beyond the 1 year that we initially signed up.
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I changed internet providers to T-MOBILE and was sent a 5G Gateway router. I read that there were issues because it has to be configured to Voiply.On two occasions I could not receive or call out with Voiply and had to use my cell phone. I contacted customer service and they fixed the issue and told me what to do if it happens again on my end and if that doesn't work call customer support. They were easy to work with for someone that's a senior and not computer savvy.
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I changed internet providers to T-MOBILE and was sent a 5G Gateway router. I read that there were issues because it has to be configured to Voiply.On two occasions I could not receive or call out with Voiply and had to use my cell phone. I contacted customer service and they fixed the issue and told me what to do if it happens again on my end and if that doesn't work call customer support. They were easy to work with for someone that's a senior and not computer savvy.
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I love Voiply, I was able to dial out but could not receive calls. I made one call to Voiply, they accessed the situation and resolved it quickly. I have been with them for five years and never had a problem. Good dependable service.
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November 19, 2025
Dealing with Voiply was quite refreshing. Their customer service team, including AI, was fast and helpful. The equipment needed to use Voiply arrived the next day. After installing it, I sent a note saying that it had arrived and received a confirmation back promptly. My husband and I are impressed with Voiply and only wish that we had found them sooner!
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Dealing with Voiply was quite refreshing. Their customer service team, including AI, was fast and helpful. The equipment needed to use Voiply arrived the next day. After installing it, I sent a note saying that it had arrived and received a confirmation back promptly. My husband and I are impressed with Voiply and only wish that we had found them sooner!
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Great Customer Service with immediate responses to register my adapter. I would recommend their telephone service just for their customer service. The Sound is very clear on the initial phone calls I did make, and I am very satisfied with the Set-up process, the convenient app, and their easy to use customer portal.
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June 26, 2025
I have been a customer of Voiply for a number of years, and have enjoyed a trouble free experience. The few times that I had questions or concerns, the customer service has been stellar, and has been able to solve my issues quickly and professionally. I would highly reccomend their service to anyone who is looking for a highly reliable VOIP phone service. Superior service at a very reasonable price.
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June 26, 2025
We love our Voiply residential phone service! They made it so easy to switch from our previous carrier. It took me less than 5 minutes to hook up the equipment, which we received for free. Our call quality is fantastic, and we are no longer missing phone calls like we did with our previous carrier. Customer service was fantastic to deal with when we had questions prior to switching to Voiply. We have now recommended Voiply to our other family members!
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Kathie Steinberg
July 17, 2025
We love our Voiply residential phone service! They made it so easy to switch from our previous carrier. It took me less than 5 minutes to hook up the equipment, which we received for free. Our call quality is fantastic, and we are no longer missing phone calls like we did with our previous carrier. Customer service was fantastic to deal with when we had questions prior to switching to Voiply. We have now recommended Voiply to our other family members!
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I'm so excited to have a landline home phone once again. This is the best and easiest way to reach me as I have a large house and I can put phones in everyroom if I want. I cannot carry a cellphone around my hip all day so never hear a call from it. The price is so perfect for my low income status. I actually received this earlier than expected. The instructions were so simple to connect to and have my phone working in minutes. Yes, even I, a elderly woman, could do this without having help from anyone. Yes I am so delighted to have found VOIPLY . Thanks again and look forward to many years together.
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Diane McKinney
December 22, 2025
I'm so excited to have a landline home phone once again. This is the best and easiest way to reach me as I have a large house and I can put phones in everyroom if I want. I cannot carry a cellphone around my hip all day so never hear a call from it. The price is so perfect for my low income status. I actually received this earlier than expected. The instructions were so simple to connect to and have my phone working in minutes. Yes, even I, a elderly woman, could do this without having help from anyone. Yes I am so delighted to have found VOIPLY . Thanks again and look forward to many years together.
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Diane McKinney
December 22, 2025
I've been with Voiply for many years with excellent phone service. If I had any questions or problems, Customer Service was right there to help. Call quality is always spot-on and their pricing plans make it very affordable. I've tried others, and this company has been the best, so far.
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Jim
August 8, 2025
I've been with Voiply for many years with excellent phone service. If I had any questions or problems, Customer Service was right there to help. Call quality is always spot-on and their pricing plans make it very affordable. I've tried others, and this company has been the best, so far.
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August 8, 2025