Can a Landline Be Converted to a VoIP Phone?

A landline telephone system converts sound into electrical signals that travel over copper wires. VoIP is different in that it uses the Internet to transmit sound.

Many people and businesses are moving away from landline phones to VoIP systems. These phone systems can save money, unify communication platforms, and offer more features.

Cost

Most VoIP providers let customers keep their landline phone number when switching to them, but the cost of porting the number varies by provider. Some offer a one-time fee, while others charge monthly fees to maintain the number. Read a guide online to learn more about converting a landline into VoIP.

You’ll need an analog telephone adapter (ATA) box and a high-speed internet connection to convert a landline to a VoIP device. Once these devices are installed, you can use any VoIP phone to make and receive calls over the Internet.

VoIP uses data packets over an IP network, such as the Internet, to transmit voice and video data between phones, desktops and other devices. It works like a traditional phone but can save you money on long-distance and local calling rates.

In addition, VoIP devices don’t require a tangled mess of wires. Most VoIP phones connect to your router via a single modular jack, similar to the one the local phone company gives you at the point of entry into your home. This connection also allows you to connect to your wireless Internet.

Portability

A single twisted pair of wires to your house can provide a dial tone and DSL high-speed Internet. This is known as POTS, or Plain Old Telephone Service.

To switch to VoIP, you disconnect your landline in the NID (the brown box affixed by your phone company) for that line and plug your VoIP device into it.

A residential VoIP device plugs into your router and Internet connection and provides a simple phone jack (dial tone). The two links to the wall jack, with a white cord plugged into the ‘telco access only’ modular jack and a blue connection to the router/Internet. A red/green set of screw posts supports these two connections.

Convenience

Most VoIP systems come with phones that work with their service, and you don’t need any special adapters to use them. However, if you want to keep your existing landline home phone and fax machine, you can do so with the help of an ATA (analog telephone adapter) box.

The ATA box connects your phone line to the Internet, and you can then make VoIP calls using any device that can use a headset. It’s important to note that VoIP phone service requires a reliable Internet connection for high-quality call audio and consistent connectivity.

The best way to determine whether a VoIP system will meet your needs is to talk to a live customer service representative. Many are available seven days a week to answer your questions and support. They can also walk you through porting your landline number to VoIP. Porting costs vary; some providers will waive the one-time fee if you sign up for their service.

Quality

VoIP works on the Internet, allowing users to make calls anywhere they have a high-speed Internet connection. This is especially useful for businesses with remote and hybrid employees. This system is also more reliable than landlines, which can be unreliable due to poor Internet service.

VoIP phones require a phone adapter and broadband internet connection to work. The adapter is plugged into the phone jack in your demarcation box, the brown or gray box affixed by the local telephone company to the house or office. The phone wires connect to the module, a small box with 1-2 modular jacks.

Your number must be ported if you switch from a landline to VoIP. To begin the porting process, contact your current provider and provide them with all the information required. Once the number has been ported, you can cancel your service with your old provider. If you’re ready to switch, contact Community Phone for a reliable and future-proof solution.