VoIP Phone Systems For Small Businesses UK

Published on September 19, 2024 | Last Updated on December 11, 2024

As technology continues to evolve, the way businesses communicate has transformed. However, traditional landlines can be expensive and inflexible for many small businesses.

That’s where Voice over Internet Protocol Phone Systems (VoIP) come in.

VoIP telephone systems have become a preferred solution for small businesses in the UK, offering flexibility, cost-efficiency, and a wide range of powerful features that traditional fixed-line telephones cannot match.

We’ll explore everything you need to know about VoIP phone systems for your business.

What is a VoIP Phone System for Business?

A business VoIP phone system allows users to make and receive phone calls online rather than relying on conventional telephone system lines.

VoIP converts voice into digital data, which is transmitted across the internet.

This method enables users to make crystal-clear voice calls from any internet-connected device, including computers, smartphones, and specially designed VoIP phones.

Businesses can enjoy lower costs and increased functionality by transmitting data over broadband networks rather than copper wires.

Start Your 7-Day Free Trial

Want to experience the benefits of a VoIP system without a long-term commitment?

Air Landline offers a 7-day free trial, allowing businesses to test our service!

The free trial comes with all the features of the entire VoIP system.

How does it work?

Understanding the inner workings of business VoIP telephone systems in the UK can demystify the technology and highlight why it is so beneficial for small businesses.

A Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) technology allows VoIP telephone systems to manage and facilitate voice and video calls over the Internet.

It’s the protocol to initiate, maintain, and terminate voice calls, video conferencing, and other multimedia sessions. Without SIP, the VoIP system couldn’t set up or end calls.

This protocol allows VoIP systems to communicate across different networks and with other service providers, providing flexibility and interoperability.

Once a phone call is initiated, VoIP converts analogue voice signals into digital data transmitted over the internet.

This process, known as packet switching, breaks voice conversations into small packets of data that travel across the network.

When the data packets reach their destination, they are reassembled and converted into audible speech.

This also works in reverse when you receive a call from someone. When someone calls your VoIP number, the data packets are received and converted back into voice for you to hear.

Unlike the traditional circuit-switching method used in landline telephone systems, which requires a dedicated line for the duration of a call, VoIP systems use internet protocols to send data more efficiently and flexibly.

Is any installation required for a VoIP phone system for business in the UK?

One of the most significant advantages of the VoIP phone systems is that it requires minimal set up in order to get started!

A VoIP phone for business in the UK can be set up using devices that most companies already have, such as deskphones, smartphones, laptops, desktops, and tablets.

Here’s what you typically need:

• High-speed Internet connection: A reliable Internet connection is the backbone of any VoIP system. It would be best if you had a broadband connection with sufficient upload and download speeds for the best call quality.
• VoIP-compatible phones: Although you can use a mobile phone or computer for VoIP phone calls, businesses that prefer traditional desk phones can opt for VoIP-compatible systems. These phones are designed to work seamlessly with VoIP systems.
• VoIP software or app: Air Landline offers softphone applications that allow employees to make calls directly from their computer or smartphone.

Why Is Everyone Switching To VoIP Telephone Systems Now?

The move towards VoIP telephone systems is rapidly gaining momentum, and it’s clear why businesses are making this shift.

The advantages of adopting VoIP technology are numerous and impactful, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK.

Here’s a closer look at why VoIP is becoming the preferred choice for businesses:

• Cost-Efficiency

Switching to VoIP offers substantial savings by avoiding installation fees, ongoing maintenance, and expensive long-distance charges associated with traditional phone systems.

VoIP operates over the Internet, enabling businesses to cut these costs and allocate resources more effectively.

• Unified Communication Solutions

VoIP consolidates all communication into one system, allowing clients and colleagues to reach you via a single number, whether using a workstation, deskphone, or mobile device.

• Better Mobility

VoIP facilitates a flexible and modern work environment by allowing your phone number to move with you.

You can receive calls and voicemails via email on any device, such as smartphones, laptops, or tablets.

Additionally, Air Landline offers virtual numbers with different area codes. We have 100% UK coverage.

• Scalability

VoIP telephone systems offer superior scalability compared to traditional fixed-line telephones.

You can easily add or remove lines and features via an online portal, with many services providing tiered pricing and additional options. This flexibility allows your communication system to grow with your business.

• Increased Productivity

VoIP systems enhance productivity through AI, automation, and integrated services.

VoIP streamlines operations by consolidating tools and reducing administrative tasks, enabling teams to focus on their core activities within a single platform.

• Future-Proof Technology

With the UK phasing out traditional fixed-line telephones by 2025, adopting VoIP with a custom area code is a proactive step towards future-proofing your business communication infrastructure.

VoIP systems are built to accommodate technological advancements, ensuring that your communication needs are met now and in the future.

VoIP Vs Traditional Business Phone Line

To fully understand why VoIP systems are rapidly becoming the preferred communication solution for businesses, it’s essential to compare them with traditional business phone lines.

While fixed-line telephone telephony systems have been a staple of business communication for decades, they have significant limitations compared to modern VoIP systems.

• Cost Comparison

The main difference between traditional phone lines and VoIP is cost.

Traditional lines have hidden fees for installation, maintenance, and additional lines, with high long-distance charges.

VoIP phone systems for businesses cost less than traditional telephone systems. They offer great deals with transparent pricing with no hidden fees, including unlimited global and local UK calls and lower international rates.

• Features and Functionality

VoIP systems outshine traditional fixed-line telephones with their range of advanced features.

Unlike basic traditional landlines, Air Landline offers a variety of advanced tools that enhance business communication, including call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and much more.

• Reliability and Call Quality

Businesses may worry about whether VoIP can match the call quality of traditional landline telephone systems. However, modern internet speeds and advancements in VoIP technology allow for superior HD voice quality.

Air Landline ensure reliable communication through sophisticated redundancy and failover systems. With a stable internet connection, VoIP systems offer crystal-clear communication and consistent reliability.

• Flexibility and Mobility

VoIP provides greater flexibility than traditional landlines. Your number isn’t tied to a specific location so you can take calls from anywhere with an internet connection. In contrast, landlines are fixed to one area, limiting mobility.

• Security and Compliance

Our layered security protocols push industry standards to the extreme.

Is VoIP cheaper than a landline?

Yes! Business VoIP systems are generally more affordable than traditional fixed-line telephones.

With a VoIP phone system, you bypass the need for expensive hardware and long-term contracts.

For just £9.99 plus VAT per month, Air Landline allows big and small businesses to significantly lower their communication expenses without sacrificing quality or essential features.

What is the call quality like with VoIP?

Call quality with VoIP has improved significantly over the years. Air Landline ensures high-definition call quality, providing crystal-clear communication.

As long as your internet connection is stable, the quality of a VoIP call can be as good, if not better, than a traditional landline call.

Air Landline vs Alternatives

Here’s how Air Landline stacks up against other providers:

Over 500 5-Star Customer Reviews

Air Landline prides itself on providing stellar service, with over 500 five-star reviews from satisfied customers.

Here’s a look at what some of them have to say:

Best voip service Iv found yet.

“Air Landline has been a life safer, helps me give my clients the options of calling a mobile or landline, easy to setup and reasonably priced. I do wish there was an app to change settings on but that’s my only gripe with air landline, Iv used a couple of other voip companies before and they have either let me down or hiked there prices up, as I said so far Iv had no issues with air landline and will continue to use them until I do have an issue with them. Highly recommended, thankyou ☺️”

— P-G Odd Jobs Ltd

Affordable and it is great

“Affordable and it is great that i could custom messages when people are calling and it helps to separate business calls to personal ones.”

—Steven Macdonald

Fantastic service

“Fantastic service. I have only been using them for about 3 months but I’ve never had an issue and the easy to access online interface makes managing my new work number a breeze. They should actually do more promoting this!”

— Cameron

Air Landline VoIP Business Systems Features

Air Landline’s VoIP system is packed with features that are designed to streamline communication for businesses:

• Call Forwarding: Easily forward calls to another number, so you never miss an important business call.
• Auto Attendant: Provide professional call routing and automated greetings to enhance customer experience.
• Answering System: Built-in voicemail with options to customise greetings and store messages.
• Local and National Phone Numbers: Choose a local or national number to give your business a professional presence.
• Calls Diverted to Your Mobile Phone: Ensure you’re always reachable, even on the go.
• Business Calls Heads-Up: Know when an incoming call is business-related.
• Business Voicemail: Stay organised with a dedicated voicemail system for business calls.
• Business Welcome Message: Greet callers with a custom business message.
• Call Recording: Record calls for quality assurance, training, or record-keeping.
• Multiple Mobile Diverts: Forward calls to multiple mobile numbers to ensure availability.
• Out of Hours Voicemail: Capture messages outside business hours with a professional out-of-hours greeting.
• Voicemail Transcription: Receive voicemail messages as text for more effortless follow-up.
• Custom Greetings: Personalise your voicemail greetings to fit your business tone.
• Holiday Voicemail: Set particular voicemail messages during holidays.
• And much more!

Advantages of using Air Landline

The benefits of using a VoIP system for your business are numerous:

• Local or national virtual numbers
• Cost-effective compared to traditional phone lines
• Flexibility to make and receive calls from anywhere
• Easy scalability as your business grows
• High-quality calls
• Access to advanced features like call recording and voicemail transcription
• Reliable and easy to set up with minimal equipment
• Supports remote work by diverting calls to mobile devices
• Unlimited calling plans for a fixed monthly cost
• Unbeatable customer support from Air Landline

Sectors That We Serve

Air Landline provides VoIP systems to a diverse range of sectors, including:

• Call Centres
• Schools
• Healthcare
• Dental Practices
• Estate Agents
• Solicitors
• Construction Businesses
• Government Agencies
• Restaurants
• Accountants
• Churches
• Museums
• Automotive
• Retail
• Franchises
• And many more!

How to Convert a Landline Phone to VoIP?

Switching your landline to VoIP with Air Landline is quick and easy:

Step 1: Choose your preferred area code

Select your preferred area code, we have 100% UK coverage.

Step 2: Email your mobile number and Email address

After choosing your area code, the next step is to add your mobile number and email address.

This process ensures that all calls to your virtual local number are automatically forwarded to your mobile, allowing you to manage your business calls no matter where you are in the United Kingdom or abroad.

If you already have an existing landline number then you’ll want to email your number to hello@airlandline.co.uk, and we’ll let you know the next steps.

Step 3: Air Landline handles the transfer.
Air Landline will coordinate with your current provider to transfer your number. The process typically takes 2–4 weeks with almost no downtime.

Enjoy a seamless transition and start benefiting from VoIP features immediately!

Step 4: That’s it! You’re ready to get started!

Now With you original landline number associated with your Air Landline account you can immediately start receiving calls! 

Can a VoIP phone be used as a business landline?

Yes, a VoIP phone can be used as a business landline.

VoIP is often considered a superior alternative to traditional landlines due to its flexibility, features, and cost-effectiveness. Learn how to get a business phone number for your company.

What will happen to fixed-line telephones in 2025?

In 2025, traditional landline phone services in the UK are set to undergo a major transformation.

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which supports traditional fixed-line telephones, will be switched off by the end of that year.

This move will mark the transition from copper-based phone lines to fully digital systems, primarily using VoIP technology.

Here’s what will happen:

• End of traditional fixed-line telephones: Traditional landline services as we know them will be discontinued, and households and businesses will need to switch to digital alternatives.
• Switch to digital phone lines: Calls will be made over the internet, either through broadband or business fibre networks, using VoIP technology.
• Equipment updates: Existing landline phones can still be used but must be connected to a business broadband router instead of a phone socket. Some users might need to update their equipment or install adaptors.
• Faster internet services: This change will also help improve the UK’s internet infrastructure, encouraging wider adoption of business fibre broadband.

The 2025 switch-off aims to modernise the UK’s telecom infrastructure, providing more reliable and efficient communication systems.

Best VoIP Desk Phones To Use For The Office

When choosing the best VoIP desk phones for the office, it’s essential to consider features like call quality, ease of use, and integration with your existing systems.

Here are some of our preferred desk phones:

Grandstream GXP1625 – Perfect if you’re looking for something cheap and basic. Note that this phone needs to be plugged straight into your broadband router, limiting where you can put your phone.

Grandstream GXP 2160 – More advanced than the one above with a colour LCD screen.

Grandstream DP720/750 – Perfect for flexibility. You plug the base station into the broadband router, allowing the handsets to be wireless. You can always add additional handsets for ultimate flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Takeaway – Business VoIP Phone Systems

Transitioning to a VoIP phone system offers big benefits for small businesses in the UK.

By choosing Air Landline as your provider, you can reduce communication costs, enhance flexibility, and access advanced features that traditional landlines cannot match.

Ready to make the switch?