You’ve decided to upgrade your phone system from the traditional phone line to a VoIP system in order to take advantage of the features and benefits. Before you make the move, it’s important to know the differences between an on-site VoIP solution and a hosted VoIP solution. If you’re a small business, you need to have the right information to make the best decision. Hopefully, this will provide a foundation for your search. Here are the main differences between an on-site VoIP service and a hosted VoIP service.
Best VoIP Solution: On-Site VoIP solution
An on-site VoIP solution means you have the phone hardware at your location to run directly as opposed to being in the cloud. On-site VoIP isn’t as new as hosted VoIP but works great for certain businesses. Most companies that have an IT staff have no problems using an on-site VoIP solution. Inbound calls go through your server over a dedicated network connection and are therefore monitored by your in-house staff.
Benefits of an On-Site VoIP
- Scalable and flexible. An on-site VoIP solution is run at your location, and you have control over the features and functions you utilize, for example call routing, migration, or support.
- Low rates. There are low monthly rates, although there might be higher upfront costs for equipment. You own the equipment and with the low monthly rates, you can invest those savings back into the business.
- Avoid price hikes. You may avoid small price hikes from your provider since you’re hosting the equipment.
When your solution is based in your location, you can enjoy control over your solution that is not available when using a hosted solution. However, you may need an IT staff to manage the system which may be an additional expense that you are not accustomed to. That’s because you’re responsible for the maintenance and upgrades of your solution. Keep in mind you need to distribute resources and budget in order to support an on-site VoIP solution.
Best VoIP Solution: Hosted VoIP Solution
A hosted VoIP solution is connected by the Internet, and cloud-based phone system is another term for the same solution. Inbound/outbound calls pass through your provider’s servers and hardware. This means there is minimal hardware at your location. Hosted VoIP is new technology and is, in most instances, a preferred choice for small to medium-sized businesses. It’s hands off since your service provider manages everything – the maintenance, system management and hardware upgrades.
Benefits of a Hosted VoIP Solution
- Low costs. The setup and installation costs are minimal and it’s easy to get started. It’s perfect for businesses who want to move quickly on a new phone system. There aren’t any added fees or costs associated with having hardware on-site.
- No IT staff. Since the hosted VoIP provider manages the service, there’s no need for added IT staff to support the system. Your provider is handling everything from their end. You can focus on managing your business.
- Supports remote/hybrid workforce. A hosted VoIP solution is perfect if you’re supporting a remote workforce. They can send and receive calls from anywhere without displaying your personal mobile number.
- Scaling. Your solution grows as your business grows. Hiring more employees? Order the necessary desk phones and add users or features to the service as you need them.
A hosted VoIP solution is a good choice for small businesses who don’t have the upfront capital to pay for hardware or to manage the service themselves. There’s no minimum hardware requirements or IT staff to hire.
Unitel is Your Choice for the Best VoIP System for Small Business
Unitel will be your trusted advisor when it comes to making the choice between an on-site VoIP or a hosted VoIP solution. That’s because we’ve been working closely with businesses of all sizes for over 35 years. As part of our process, we get to know your business and its needs to make sure you make the right communications decision for YOU. Contact us today, and let’s start the conversation.