
In fact, let’s repeat that for emphasis: Traditional multi-line phone systems won’t be around much longer.Īnd we’re not so sure you want one anyway.

By 2030, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to get a multi-line phone system even if you want one. As we said, these business phone systems run on the PSTN―a technology that’s being phased out all over the world. The biggest problems with multi-line phone systems? They’re disappearing. So while your VoIP costs will depend on your provider, plan, and users, VoIP can be a cost-effective way to get business phone service. (Other business phone systems required a pro to help.) And in many cases, you keep things DIY by setting up your business phone system yourself. Most offices already have internet installed, though. In some cases, you may also have to consider installation costs―either for the internet infrastructure required to use VoIP or for your VoIP system itself. Of course, you can always choose to use VoIP on your existing computers or mobile devices, which can save you money.

These phones look and work a lot like traditional desk phones, but they’re VoIP-enabled. Second, you’ll need to consider the cost of any hardware you need―like IP phones (internet protocol phones). (Our guide to the cheapest VoIP service has some affordable suggestions.) You can find cheaper VoIP service, though. Most VoIP providers charge per user (or sometimes per line), with costs often starting around $15 to $20 per user. It comes with two main costs to consider.įirst, the cost of your VoIP service. VoIP often ends up being one of the cheapest options for business phone service.

Small businesses with workers in remote locations may benefit from a virtual VoIP system because it’s lower in cost and highly mobile. Virtual VoIP: Fully virtual systems can take incoming calls and route them to whichever person or device you desire, including smartphones.You may want to choose a SIP trunking–enabled system if you need to keep existing handsets and other hardware. SIP trunking: Using Session Initiation Protocol, a computing language, SIP trunking allows legacy phone systems to connect to internet networks, such as VoIP.

