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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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Discover affordable VoIP solutions that guarantee exceptional quality and features.

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What Real People Say About Us?

Experience why Voiply has become the top-rated home phone provider, trusted by over 50,000 satisfied customers.

After almost five years of trouble-free service, my Voiply connection failed. I visited the website and chatted with a robot, who instructed me to check all my wire connections. I thought, That's what they all tell you, and it never solves the problem." The robot connected me with a live agent who told me to check all my wire connections. She was more insistent than the robot and eventually determined that the connection to my modem was faulty. I connected the cable to a different port, and the system was restored. The moral of the story....Listen to your agent. She knows more than you do and is there to help you.
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John Cronin
November 15, 2025
After almost five years of trouble-free service, my Voiply connection failed. I visited the website and chatted with a robot, who instructed me to check all my wire connections. I thought, That's what they all tell you, and it never solves the problem." The robot connected me with a live agent who told me to check all my wire connections. She was more insistent than the robot and eventually determined that the connection to my modem was faulty. I connected the cable to a different port, and the system was restored. The moral of the story....Listen to your agent. She knows more than you do and is there to help you.
John Cronin
November 15, 2025
Amazing customer service! I have to say, the communication from this company is stellar; they were very proactive; sending emails with order status updates, sending literature before I received the adapter, so that I could familiarize myself and be ready to install when it arrived. Unfortunately I don't have a compatible modem/router. (Most are compatible and can be tweaked, but I happened to have the one that wasn't.) Their tech support was brilliant, offering a couple of solutions, but I ended up returning the adapter. The customer service reps were very helpful with the return process as well. I will definitely reorder from Voiply when we're ready to get a compatible modem.
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Marjolaine S
October 31, 2025
Amazing customer service! I have to say, the communication from this company is stellar; they were very proactive; sending emails with order status updates, sending literature before I received the adapter, so that I could familiarize myself and be ready to install when it arrived. Unfortunately I don't have a compatible modem/router. (Most are compatible and can be tweaked, but I happened to have the one that wasn't.) Their tech support was brilliant, offering a couple of solutions, but I ended up returning the adapter. The customer service reps were very helpful with the return process as well. I will definitely reorder from Voiply when we're ready to get a compatible modem.
Marjolaine S
October 31, 2025
For those considering VOIPLY, let me tell you this has been a great change from my previous VOIP service. The clarity has improved ten fold and so far haven’t had any issues with VOIPLY. THE $8.95 charge is somewhat misleading because it does not include other taxes and fee charges which amounts to a total of around $16per month which is still very reasonable compared to cell phone plans and even more on land line charges. I would definitely recommend VOIPLY as your home phone plan.
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Ronald Pantier
September 21, 2025
For those considering VOIPLY, let me tell you this has been a great change from my previous VOIP service. The clarity has improved ten fold and so far haven’t had any issues with VOIPLY. THE $8.95 charge is somewhat misleading because it does not include other taxes and fee charges which amounts to a total of around $16per month which is still very reasonable compared to cell phone plans and even more on land line charges. I would definitely recommend VOIPLY as your home phone plan.
Ronald Pantier
September 21, 2025
Voiply does have an A+ BBB rating. Just set it all up, was some issues with getting started, but contacted them. Initial communication was easily done through what seemed to be AI generated. Info was sent to a technician who fixed all my issues within the hour. I did not have to stay on the phone while the tech was doing their fix. Once everything was working, the tech sent me an email of his work and asked if all was good. I was able to reply, which is usually not an option to other businesses. Voiply seems to work great. Many features to learn along the way. I hope this will be a long friendship for us. I 100% would recommend this to everyone. The price is right. Just be patient for the initial set up, they are there to help, even with transferring your phone number for free, which many businesses are charging you for.
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John Boardley
August 16, 2025
Voiply does have an A+ BBB rating. Just set it all up, was some issues with getting started, but contacted them. Initial communication was easily done through what seemed to be AI generated. Info was sent to a technician who fixed all my issues within the hour. I did not have to stay on the phone while the tech was doing their fix. Once everything was working, the tech sent me an email of his work and asked if all was good. I was able to reply, which is usually not an option to other businesses. Voiply seems to work great. Many features to learn along the way. I hope this will be a long friendship for us. I 100% would recommend this to everyone. The price is right. Just be patient for the initial set up, they are there to help, even with transferring your phone number for free, which many businesses are charging you for.
John Boardley
August 16, 2025
I had moved from a previous VoIP service provider. I was concerned that the services wouldn't be as "good". I'm supper happy that I was wrong. Service has been very good, Support is have very helpful and feature and updates of the service are still coming. With other provider that I have 15 years. Nothing changed price keep going up. I'm so glad I made the change.
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Joseph Sarcone
January 11, 2026
I had moved from a previous VoIP service provider. I was concerned that the services wouldn't be as "good". I'm supper happy that I was wrong. Service has been very good, Support is have very helpful and feature and updates of the service are still coming. With other provider that I have 15 years. Nothing changed price keep going up. I'm so glad I made the change.
Joseph Sarcone
January 11, 2026
I love having a home phone again! I have a middle schooler and I wanted to put off devices for my child and this is meeting our needs and it's also so fun to have a family phone again in case we can't find our cell phones for emergencies. More independence for my kid and more secure feeling for mom and dad! Win win. The quality of the calls is great too.
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Bill Mautner
July 19, 2025
I love having a home phone again! I have a middle schooler and I wanted to put off devices for my child and this is meeting our needs and it's also so fun to have a family phone again in case we can't find our cell phones for emergencies. More independence for my kid and more secure feeling for mom and dad! Win win. The quality of the calls is great too.
Bill Mautner
July 19, 2025
I was tired of paying over 25.00 a month for my landline, after doing an online search I came across Voiply for 9.98 a month and decided to give them a try. I was pleasantly surprised at the customer service the adapter shipped out of Pittsburgh and arrived in 5 days. It took me 10 minutes to be up and running and everything was extremely easy! I would highly recommend giving Voiply a look, well worth it!
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Donna Reed
October 6, 2025
I was tired of paying over 25.00 a month for my landline, after doing an online search I came across Voiply for 9.98 a month and decided to give them a try. I was pleasantly surprised at the customer service the adapter shipped out of Pittsburgh and arrived in 5 days. It took me 10 minutes to be up and running and everything was extremely easy! I would highly recommend giving Voiply a look, well worth it!
Donna Reed
October 6, 2025
Voiply provides excellent service with customer service that wowed me from the start. I had to move my phone away from landline and Voiply was the only service that had clear instructions and reasonable costs. Then I needed to clarify some questions, so I called and I was able to speak to a real person who understood what was going on, saved me money on the plan, and was friendly and knowledgeable. When it came time to port the number, I had clear updates and I had a date. On the morning of the date, the number switched and I was live. It was so smooth, it was like nothing even changed. I'm so thrilled that I found Voiply, I highly recommend this service and this business.
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Nami Moshiri
August 8, 2025
Voiply provides excellent service with customer service that wowed me from the start. I had to move my phone away from landline and Voiply was the only service that had clear instructions and reasonable costs. Then I needed to clarify some questions, so I called and I was able to speak to a real person who understood what was going on, saved me money on the plan, and was friendly and knowledgeable. When it came time to port the number, I had clear updates and I had a date. On the morning of the date, the number switched and I was live. It was so smooth, it was like nothing even changed. I'm so thrilled that I found Voiply, I highly recommend this service and this business.
Nami Moshiri
August 8, 2025
I transferred to Voiply services on October 6, 2025, and regret not doing this sooner. I cannot tell any difference in the quality of the voice, communication, and services compared to the previous provider I had, all this at a fraction of the cost. Highly recommended.
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Norma C. Solera
October 16, 2025
I transferred to Voiply services on October 6, 2025, and regret not doing this sooner. I cannot tell any difference in the quality of the voice, communication, and services compared to the previous provider I had, all this at a fraction of the cost. Highly recommended.
Norma C. Solera
October 16, 2025