Category Archives for "Voice over Internet Protocol"

6 Reasons Going VoIP Can Save You Time and Money

 “Time is money.” Never has that old adage been truer than the modern day. At a time when a matter of minutes can mean the difference between making a deal and missing an opportunity, instant connectivity matters more now than ever. Fortunately, business VoIP phone service is helping small business owners remain competitive, not just in cost savings but also in redeeming and reclaiming time. Let’s look at a few other ways your company can save and benefit by switching to business VoIP phone service.

1. Save Commute Times with Remote Access

In the days of landlines, you had to be physically in the office to take a call or return a call. (How many business opportunities were lost because business owners couldn’t be in two places at once?) With business VoIP phone service, remote access is a breeze, meaning you can answer important phone calls anywhere you have Internet access, whether at your home office or on your smartphone while you’re on the road. The simple ability to take or return a call now can add up to many hours of saved productive time—not to mention possibly thousands of dollars in sales.

2. Save Employee Productivity with Instant Connectivity

Digium compiled some interesting numbers regarding employee productivity and VoIP service as part of a unified communications (UC) strategy. According to its data, the average employee saves 40 minutes per day by having one interface for email, voicemail and fax, as well as 30 minutes a day by having remote access to communications. In fact, all told, the average company of 100 employees can reclaim nearly 50,000 work hours per year just by using integrated cloud-based communications services like VoIP business phone services.

3. Save Downtime on Maintenance, Servicing and Upgrades

With landline service, almost any phone trouble, maintenance need or change in configuration requires a visit from a phone technician, often resulting in hours of downtime while changes are made. With business VoIP phone service, configurations are virtual and upgrades are software-based, meaning an IT professional can make changes in minutes.

4. Long-Distance Fees Reduced or Eliminated

Conventional phone carriers must typically charge long distance or interstate fees for out-of-area calls, and even more for international long distance. With VoIP services, there are typically no long distance fees for calls in the U.S., and international calls cost a fraction of what they would via landlines. If your company transacts a lot of business overseas, you can easily save thousands of dollars per year by replacing wired phone service with VoIP phone system.

5. Save on Hardware Costs and Maintenance

Setting up a conventional business telephone usually means installing and maintaining expensive PBX boxes configured to the company’s phone and fax needs. With Internet-based business VoIP phone systems, these costs are essentially eliminated because your PBX is handled virtually. Instead of installing separate hardware systems for Internet and phone networks, your phone and Internet are integrated into one setup, potentially cutting your network maintenance costs by half or more.

6. Save on Upgrades

Anytime a landline phone system requires servicing or upgrades, you must pay for a technician to come on site to repair or replace hardware and reconfigure your system. With cloud-based business VoIP phone service, these upgrades are typically software-based and can be handled virtually, at little or no cost to you.

In today’s digital age, many small businesses need VoIP phone service in order to remain competitive—and given the ways VoIP Phone Service can save you time and money in the process, you have ever fewer reasons not to make the switch. To learn how we can set you up with high quality, reliable business VoIP phone service, call 1-877-NetServ today.

VoIP – What is this Business Phone System?

Is your traditional phone system a risk to your business?

It’s time to finally see a new way of looking at your business communications.

Your old phone system has served you well all these years to make and receive calls, but is it limiting your ability to do more with lower costs and help your business? Are you able to use applications that can help manage your business more effectively?

Does it provide flexibility and increase productivity?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology makes communication over the Internet not only very cost effective, but allows you to finally see and hear what is going on when a customer calls your company.

Increased Functionality and Productivity

VoIP phone service for business does more than increase savings by lowering costs. It allows small businesses to use enterprise features, such as:

  • Call recording functionality – Record calls for quality and training
  • Listen and monitor calls live – Great for training new employees and customer satisfaction
  • Voice mail to email – Listen to your voicemail on your computer or smartphone
  • Call reporting – Monitor employee performance on the phone
  • E-fax services – Send and receive faxes using your email
  • Conference Bridge – Easily setup conference calls
  • And much more

All of these features help you understand and manage your business communications more effectively.

(VoIP) telephone systems provide many competitive advantages for Southern California (i.e., Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, Upland, San Bernardino and San Diego Counties) small businesses—but not every VoIP system is alike. When making the switch to business VoIP phone service, one of the most important decisions you will make is whether to go with hosted VoIP or a regular, on-premises VoIP system. Let’s explore the differences between these systems and discuss some of the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

Hosted VoIP

With hosted VoIP business phones, you get all the features, functionality, and flexibility of an on-premises system, but instead of housing the hardware, you pay a monthly fee to access business VoIP phone service via your Internet connection, and the servers and other equipment are housed off-site by your provider. The advantages of hosted business VoIP phone service include a lower up-front cost, plus the fact that the provider handles all maintenance, repair, upkeep, and upgrades of the equipment at their own expense, and if something goes wrong, they are responsible to fix it. Additionally, hosted business VoIP phone systems can easily scale up or down to accommodate the changing needs of your business.

Which VoIP System Is Right for You?

Choosing between regular and hosted business VoIP phone service, will depend on such factors as the size of your company and your ability to handle your own IT. If you have the space and budget to maintain the equipment, or if you simply want more long-term control over the configuration, an on-premises VoIP phone system might be a good option for you. For smaller businesses with lower overhead who want business VoIP phone service functionality without having to maintain the equipment, hosted VoIP phone service may be the best solution, NetServ can help you make the transition to business VoIP phone service and start helping your business grow. We have helped many businesses take advantage of using a VoIP phone system and lower costs with increased functionality.

Whichever you choose, NetServ can help your business with a VoIP system tailored to serve your needs. To learn more, call 1-877-NetServ (638-7378).

Microchip Shortage Affecting Orange County Businesses

If you want to know just how much we have come to rely on electronics for our existence, just look at the current microchip shortage and how many industries have been affected. Computers, mobile devices, cars, and “smart” appliances are just a few of the many examples of how microchips have become integrated into the things we use every day. The global shortage of microchips is not just affecting big companies like Apple and Samsung Electronics. It’s having an impact on small businesses, schools, hospitals, and other organizations around the world—including many Orange County small businesses. And unfortunately, it could last for years to come.  

How the Microchip Shortage Began 

Like so many other complications in our world, the microchip shortage began with the COVID-19 pandemic. China is the largest producer of these tiny semiconductors, and when COVID caused widespread illness and shutdowns, the microchip plants were forced to halt production—not just in China but in other places. Even when they began to ramp up production again, the factories couldn’t get the parts to make their chips, and then the ports from which the microchips are shipped around the world were also forced to close. The combination of low supply and a disrupted supply chain has caused a “perfect storm,” of sorts, the effects of which we’re still feeling today. 

How the Shortage Is Affecting Us 

You’ve probably noticed in recent months that an increasing number of items you’ve been shopping for are out of stock—including computers, mobile devices, cars, washer/dryers, “smart” toasters, and even components for VoIP phone service. (Basically, anything that uses a microchip.) Older items may still be in stock, but those supplies are dwindling, too.  

The second thing you might have noticed is higher prices—because both the chips themselves and the parts that go into them have increased in price due to scarcity. The auto industry has been the hardest hit because automakers have to order chips well in advance to put in their vehicles, causing long wait times for new vehicle arrivals and skyrocketing prices for used cars. But Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties (just to name a few) business owners can also expect more scarcity and higher prices with the computers and hardware that go into their IT and VoIP calling systems. 

When Will It End? 

It depends on who you ask. Most authorities agree that the shortage (and its effects on consumers) could last at least until the first half of 2022, but some experts believe things won’t get back to normal until at least 2023. Until then, the only options consumers have is to be willing to wait longer and pay more for these products—or put off purchasing until supplies are replenished and prices go down. 

At NetServ, we’re committed to weathering this shortage with our customers and offering the best VoIP phone service for business at the most affordable rates possible. Call 1-877-NetServ to learn more. 

Top Mobile/Telecom News Stories of the 2020s So Far (Part 1)

Despite the crises of recent years (and in some cases, because of them) communications technologies continue to develop at an amazing rate. Orange County business owners would do well to keep up with current trends in mobile, VoIP, and other telecom technologies—not only to see how current events might affect them, but also to stay informed about new tools that might make their businesses run more efficiently. It’s still early in the decade, but let’s take a look at some of the most important news stories so far relating to telecom and mobile technologies.

Pandemic, Supply Chain Woes Affecting Product Availability

Even as more of us are relying on VoIP and mobile devices than ever before, supply chain issues triggered by the pandemic may make some devices harder to get for a while—and more expensive when we do get them. Since the pandemic began in 2020, a combination of manufacturing slowdowns and trade disputes have resulted in shortages of microprocessors and graphics chips that many new devices require to operate. This has been causing delays and shortages in everything from smartphones and tablets to new and used cars. Even in cases where manufacturing has picked up, global shipping disruptions have caused huge backlogs in the major ports that receive these parts, sometimes causing cargo to sit in the harbor or on the docks for months before it can be processed. Experts believe this trend may last well into 2021 and even next year, so if you’re looking to buy new devices over the next year—be prepared to wait.

VoIP Market Forecasts Adjusted for Major Growth Following the Pandemic

It’s no secret that within the telecommunications sector, a silver lining of the pandemic was a huge spike in demand for business VoIP systems and other tools for remote communication and workflow. Market analysts have since adjusted their forecasts for the VoIP market with COVID-19 as a factor. The result: Watch for continued massive growth of this market—by at least 10 percent per year—through 2024 and beyond. For you as a small business owner in Orange County, this growth means competition, and competition means bargaining power. So watch for more features to be available for less money in the years to come.

Whatever your telecommunications needs, NetServ has the expertise and resources to set up your Orange County business with the best VoIP service suited to your needs. Call 1-877-NetServ to learn more.

All You Need to Know About Security for VoIP Small Business Phone Systems (Part 2)

The question of VoIP phone service security is a natural concern for Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Inland Empire County small business owners considering using VoIP. However, just as with your IT network, there are practical steps you can take to make sure your VoIP business phone system is secure. Having already discussed the various possible security risks with VoIP (e.g., cyberattacks, toll fraud, viruses, etc.), let’s talk about ways to bolster your own VoIP security.

Use VoIP Encryption

The first and most important safeguard to have in place is to run VoIP on an encrypted system that resists hacking. Most VoIP business phone providers now provide encryption automatically, but ask them to be sure. (Additional safety tip: If you’re using VoIP on wi-fi, make sure your wi-fi is encrypted as well.)

Don’t Use VoIP on Shared Wi-Fi

Shared wi-fi systems (e.g., coffee shops and other public places) often have inconsistent security features, especially if they’re not password-protected. If you have to make VoIP calls on shared wi-fi, run it through a VPN (virtual personal network) for added security.

Enable Network Address Translation (NAT) on Your Router

Most internet routers have a NAT feature that creates a separate, private IP address for your VoIP system, one that is only visible from inside the network itself so it’s hidden from potential hackers. (They can’t hack an IP address they can’t see.)

Run Updates Regularly

When developers release updates for your software and system, these updates typically include security updates against the latest detected viruses, malware, etc. Always make sure to run these updates across your entire system, including your VoIP phone system, to maintain high VoIP security.

Educate Your Team on Security Protocols

The biggest cybersecurity risk is human error, not your system itself. Make sure your team knows the basic best practices of internet and VoIP security, including using strong passwords, how to detect phishing/vishing scams and suspicious callers, running antivirus programs, etc.

Along with cybersecurity, VoIP security should always be a priority for Orange County small business owners. However, by being vigilant and proactive, you can use your VoIP system with confidence knowing your system and information are safe. For more information on VoIP security best practices and the latest safeguards available, call 1-877-NetServ today.

Training Your Team on Best VoIP/Telecom Practices for Your Orange County Business (Part 2)

Modern communications technologies like VoIP have given Orange County small businesses like yours the ability to compete alongside much larger companies in the digital age. The best way to make the most of these technologies is to set up a “best practices” policy and get your team on board with it—but that’s just the first piece of the puzzle. Your next objective is to create some safeguards around your VoIP/telecom system to ensure it meets the demands of your business consistently and seamlessly. Your team needs to be familiar with these safeguards, as well, so in the event that you can’t be at the helm (due to emergency, vacation, or whatever), the system won’t break down at the first sign of trouble.

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Training Your Team on Best VoIP/Telecom Practices for Your Orange County Business (Part 1)

If you’re like many Orange County business owners, you’ve already begun to appreciate the value of VoIP technology and related communications solutions for your business—especially in times that require your workforce to be more mobile and agile. You understand how to leverage these tools to your company’s best advantage—but that doesn’t mean your team does. The one thing that can make your current VoIP and IT setup more effective is to make sure your team members know how to utilize it well. This is especially important in times when you’re not in immediate contact with your team—for example, when working from home or on vacation. Let’s discuss some practical strategies for training your team to optimize their use of your VoIP and telecom systems.

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Telecom/VoIP Solutions to Give Your Small Business a Competitive Advantage in 2021 (part 2)

No matter what difficulties your Orange County small business faced last year, there are many technological options at your disposal to help you find a competitive footing in 2021. Let’s explore some examples of how you can leverage the most current VoIP advances to position your business for greater success this year.

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Top Small Business Telecom/VoIP News Stories of 2020 (part 1)

No matter how you slice it, 2020 has been a remarkable year—one full of twists, turns, setbacks, and in many cases, pain. The global COVID-19 pandemic has caused many Orange County small businesses to think on their feet, coming up with creative ways to survive during what is now likely to be repeat shutdowns. Indeed, the impacts of coronavirus on business have dominated news headlines this past year, and one of the critical factors is the role of IT and VoIP technologies. Let’s take a look back at some of the key news stories of 2020 related to small business telecom.

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Troubleshooting the Most Common Small Business VoIP Issues (part 2)

When they work correctly, VoIP systems can greatly enhance your Orange County small business’s productivity and communication. But when they start producing inconsistent quality calls or simply don’t work right, they can be downright distracting. Most of the common VoIP issues can be easily remedied, though. Let’s continue discussing some of the typical VoIP problems you may encounter and how to troubleshoot them.

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