Debunking Common Myths About VoIP

VoIP is an industry leading platform that saves time and money, but some companies are still hesitant to make the switch. According to research, there are several popular reasons why some people won’t turn to VoIP. CallHarbor is here to debunk some of those common concerns.

Myth #1: VoIP isn’t secure

Can you believe that the average cost of a data breach in the U.S. now exceeds $8 million? It’s not irrational to be concerned about someone listening in on your company’s phone calls these days.

It happens more than you might think, but VoIP can help eliminate some of the concerns surrounding privacy. Thanks to encryption, VoIP can mitigate risks more effectively than with traditional landlines.

VoIP phone systems like CallHarbor also provide advanced security features. Most providers offer call encryption, two-factor authentication, advanced monitoring, and detailed logs. (1)

There’s no need to set up a PBX or firewall, either. The VoIP service provider manages all that (hint, hint – CallHarbor!)

Myth #2: VoIP is only for big tech companies

It’s a common misconception that only large tech businesses can get value out of VoIP. You might be surprised to learn that CallHarbor mainly provides VoIP services to small- to medium-sized businesses.

Companies from virtually every industry use Voice over IP for business communications. Ranging from car dealerships, to law firms, to bakeries, VoIP is for virtually any industry.

For example, the healthcare industry has been quick to adopt VoIP phone systems. Many cloud phone service providers are HIPAA compliant, which means the private medical information transmitted through your network is entirely secure. (1)

A business of any size can embrace the features and benefits of VoIP. It lets them speed up onboarding, lower IT costs, and scale effectively.

Myth #3: VoIP isn’t widely used

Every time you use the internet to make a call, you’re using VoIP. VoIP technology has been around for over 25 years now, and the popularity of it continues to increase quickly.

Communication apps that you’re probably already familiar with, such as Skype and WhatsApp, use VoIP technology for audio and video calls. Even apps like DoorDash and Grubhub use VoIP when your driver contacts you saying your food is about to arrive. Seriously, what would we do without VoIP?!

If you’re still not convinced, consider the fact that VoIP users reached 1 billion in 2017. This statistic is why the VoIP services market is expected to reach $195 billion by 2024. (1)

More people are using VoIP than you think — including your potential customers.

Myth #4: VoIP is unreliable

You might be concerned about reliability if you’re debating whether to choose a traditional telephone system over VoIP, and understandably so. Reliability is a huge factor when it comes to having the best phone system for your business.

With CallHarbor, there’s no need to worry. We offer 99.99% uptime as long as you have a broadband internet connection. We also have three redundant data centers located strategically around North America for ensuring constant uptime.

Each data center is equipped with redundant power sources and IP connectivity. If one goes offline, calls are automatically routed through the nearest data center.

Even if you face a power outage, you can forward calls to your cell phone or laptop connected to Wi-Fi.

Myth #5: VoIP has poor call quality

When VoIP first rolled around, it is true that one of its most significant disadvantages was its weak call quality. Some people still picture the latency and hiccups that used to be more common.

Nowadays, however, VoIP calls tend to be even more crisp and clear that traditional phone calls. (2) Along with that, innovations such as noise-cancelling headphones and advanced audio compression enable VoIP phones to achieve superior sound quality.

Myth #6: VoIP is expensive

VoIP is the most cost-effective phone system you can choose. Companies can lower communication costs by up to 65%.

Compared to traditional analog phone systems, VoIP is a no-brainer. Legacy telecom providers charge extra for business features such as auto attendants, conference calling, and nationwide long-distance. (1) With CallHarbor, we give you all of these features – plus more – for no extra charge.

Virtual phone systems like CallHarbor provide everything your team needs to stay in touch, starting at only $18 per month, and with zero installation costs!

Myth #7: Consumption of cellular or internet data bandwidth

Although consuming cellular or internet data bandwidth is a disadvantage, the advantageous side of being available anywhere easily outweighs it! Increased reliability, visibility, and reach-ability is worth it.

If you are on the go, many places provide free Wi-Fi, meaning no cellular or internet data used. Also, VoIP uses much less bandwidth than you’d think. In fact, talking on a VoIP call for an hour uses less bandwidth than surfing the net for an hour.

Myth #8: Location not provided to 911 during emergency call if user is not in the office

This concern is the easiest for the CallHarbor team to debunk, because of our E911 feature. With E911, location can be provided to 911 from different locations, easily. You can utilize the E911 feature by logging into our user portal and manually entering the address of the location while associating it with a phone number.

This is an extremely important feature to utilize for remote employees, and should be put at the top of the list for employers. Read more about what E911 is, and why it’s some important here.

Myth #9: Your current network can’t handle VoIP

Not every small business has the luxury of a high-speed internet connection. However, this doesn’t mean VoIP is a no-go for you.

To make and receive VoIP calls, you need at least 100 Kbps upload and download bandwidth per line. A single DSL or cable connection will be sufficient. Most business broadband packages start at 25 Mbps, which is 25,000 Kbps. (1)

Many people now work from home. Luckily, residential broadband connections work just fine with commercial phone service.

If you don’t have any broadband internet available, this myth can actually be the truth. Satellite-based internet isn’t sufficient for reliable phone calls. Perform an online speed test to confirm your network connection is ready for VoIP services.

Myth #10: VoIP can’t support your existing devices

You don’t necessarily need to run out and buy new hardware to start using VoIP. If you have a fax machine, you can move it to CallHarbor’s online faxing service, so you can exchange documents like you would an email.

To use your traditional phone systems in the cloud, you’ll need an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA). In most cases, this isn’t cost-effective.

VoIP devices are affordable — and can be available at no cost with select plans.

Ready to experience VoIP?

With these myths and misconceptions cleared up, are you ready to see how VoIP can benefit you?

CallHarbor walks you through setting up a new phone system, and we do so in-person with no upfront costs. You can use your existing phones or get new ones. Get started today!