More than a year into the pandemic, we’re now used to working from home. Some companies even switched some positions permanently to a virtual office setup. And considering the communication issues that may arise with this, they’d only be successful through providers like Freeje.
VoIP over cellular data networks essentially allows you to connect and use a VoIP network on your mobile phone – a very important advantage if your staff is always working on the go.
If you’re interested in learning more about this, keep reading. We’ll cover how it works, its benefits, and how you can avoid potential issues along the way.
How does it work?
In your office, there’s an IP PBX that you can access via the internet.
If everyone’s in the office, they can get into the VoIP system through this. It would include even regular desk phones for as long as there’s a VoIP adaptor.
But if you don’t have access to WiFi, this is where VoIP over cellular data networks comes in. Instead of WiFi, you’ll use your phone’s mobile network to connect. It’s at this point that you’ll be assigned a three-digit number.
You’ll register a virtual phone number softphone app to an available IP PBX, get a number associated with the app, and become part of the organization’s telephony network.
Of course, for this to happen, there must be:
- A configured IP PBX because it’s where you’ll get your unique credentials.
- A Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) that can interact with your phone.
This means that all the calls that you get will be going through the PSTN before it reaches your device. More importantly, this means that if you’re calling within the network, you’ll only have to dial a three-digit number to reach the person that you want to contact.
What are the advantages of using this system?
1. Smartphones that function like desk phones
Of course, your average smartphone can do so much more. But for telephony purposes, it has to act like a desk phone.
The tech fulfills this function, and this means:
- You can call other PSTN numbers for free.
- You can be anywhere there’s an internet connection.
- Your call would be considered made within the network.
These are all important if you want an organized communications network.
2. Recorded and consolidated phone records
If you want to keep track of your staff’s incoming and outgoing calls, this would be very valuable. The records would give you initial hints on whether someone is making or taking non-work phone calls.
Plus, your accounting department would have an easier time checking the phone charges.
3. One extension number is all you need
Whether you’re at the office or out in the field, people would be able to reach you using the same extension number assigned to you.
For everyone who wants to contact you, this means they won’t get confused with the numbers. And here, your actual phone number is irrelevant. You can keep using the same extension even if you change numbers.
What are the sources of potential issues?
Even with the advantages mentioned, there can still be some drawbacks. Here are some of the issues and how you can prevent them:
1. Mobile data providers
Phone companies have the discretion to block voice traffic when using their services. So if you’re using mobile data to connect, you may not be able to. Some of these companies do this to force clients to use their own voice connection services. But others, this may just be a technical issue.
Considering this would disable you from connecting using VoIP, it’s important that you confirm with the phone company that you’d be able to use VoIP. Try to test the network so you can be sure it works properly.
2. Security concerns
Since the exchange of data happens over the internet, there’s always a chance that the system gets hacked. But just like a home security system prevents thefts, you can also minimize the odds of data breach by employing preventative measures.
You can set up a backup and disaster recovery (BDR) system, create an additional firewall, publish an employee handbook on what they can do to protect the network, or even hire an external cyber securities firm to do the work for you.
3. Connection issues
Usually, this happens if the signal strength in some areas is not good. This would prevent your phone from efficiently transferring data packets to ensure a strong and stable call connection.
So based on experience, you can identify such sites where you may have trouble connecting. Especially if you’re traveling outside the country, make arrangements beforehand.
If connecting using mobile data isn’t feasible, arrange alternatives. For example, if you’re staying at a hotel, ask if they offer WiFi in their rooms.
VoIP over cellular data networks expands the range where you can access VoIP services. By taking the necessary precautions to mitigate potential issues, you’ll get the most out of having a VoIP network.
