Every day new services, programs, and devices emerge, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is no exception. Technology evolves, companies buy each other out, and anything can happen. The wide range of product variants also provides more choices in product selection.
Table of Content
1. SIP Phones
3. Wi-Fi Phones
Three Basic Types
In the case of VoIP phones, the only difference is that they are connected to the internet and not to a phone line. The rest is a matter of detail. Most VoIP phones on the market can be classified into one of the following types, depending on how the Internet connection needed to operate them is provided
1. SIP Phones
SIP phones (also known simply as "VoIP phones") look like regular phones, but they connect to the internet and look for a VoIP provider that allows them to make calls.
SIP phones can look like simple small phones, they can look like desk phones, or they can be wireless. Regardless of the specific model or use, the term "SIP phone" (or sometimes just "VoIP phone") means that the device is equipped with a plug that allows it to be fixedly connected to the internet or a network instead of a phone line.
2. Softphones and USB Phones
Softphones and USB phones are connected to the internet or a network via a computer. They work as long as the computer is turned on.
A softphone is a program that runs on the computer. It is displayed on the computer screen (as an image on the phone). To work with a softphone, you need speakers and a microphone, and it is recommended to use a headset. Several free softphones can be downloaded from the internet, for example, X-lite and 3cX, and many VoIP providers also offer their own free versions.
USB phones look and feel like regular phones, but they connect to a USB port on a computer and require software to operate. It's the computer that makes it VoIP because it's the computer that puts you on the line, and USB phones work as long as the computer is turned on and the necessary software is installed.
3. Wi-Fi Phones
Wi-Fi phones use a wireless connection to access the internet and networks and to find a VoIP provider. For example, if you have a wireless router at home or in the office, you can use a Wi-Fi phone to make Voice over IP call when you are away from home or the office.
Wi-Fi phones are rare these days, but they are sold because they serve a specific need. It is important to mention them because they look like cell phones, and their name can be confusing with cell phones. However, it is essential to know that just because it is called Wi-Fi, it is wireless and allows you to make calls, but it is not a cell phone.
Last Tip
Manufacturers are introducing a series of new products that could combine the VoIP phones described in this article. If you are familiar with the three main types of VoIP phones mentioned above, you can get an idea of what most consumer VoIP products can do.
