What is Cloud Telephony?

Cloud telephony enables companies to store their entire warehouse of data on the cloud, for quicker access and ease of data control. Companies can access the information at any time, and leverage a range of advanced solutions such as virtual numbers, IVR, click-to call, missed call service, outbound calling, etc.

If you're debating the switch from your existing business phone service to cloud telephony, you're in the right place. In this guide, we're covering everything you need to know, including the essentials of cloud telephony, how it works, how it benefits your business, and how to choose your cloud telephony provider.

Cloud telephony is a type of Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS). UCaaS is a unified communications model, meaning it brings various communication systems and collaboration tools together. With cloud telephony, you won't just move your phone calls to the cloud, but also connect them with your video meetings, instant messaging, CRM, and business processes across the board.

Cloud Telephony Work

Cloud telephony works through a VoIP service provider. When you dial the phone number you want to call, your service provider handles the routing. It converts analog voice signals into data packets and transmits them over your internet connection. That's how it connects your phone to the person you're calling.

On your end, you would replace individual phone extensions with a VoIP desk phone. Rather than connecting to a landline, you plug your phones into your existing network. You can also use a softphone, an app installed on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. In both cases, you're calling from a modern, easy-to-use interface and establish a call in a split second.

Benefits of Cloud Telephony

Quick and easy implementation

Cloud telephony implementation requires no on-site infrastructure. This advantage means you can get up and running within a few days, potentially even within a day.

There's no waiting for a technician, no installation of phone lines, no delays, and no lengthy process of hiring a full-time employee to configure your new telephony system. Your cloud telephony provider takes care of everything. You'll instantly get virtual phone numbers and access to a dashboard that allows you to manage the entire phone service.

Lower cost of running your business phone system

There are many ways cloud telephony services will save you money. You can save up to 65% of your traditional phone bill. Cloud telephony saves your business from maintenance contracts, limited calling minutes, restrictive local and toll-free phone numbers, and paying for separate business SMS services.

With cloud telephony, there are no unexpected maintenance costs or bills. And if you're bootstrapped and want to get started as low cost as possible, you can skip buying VoIP phones and use laptops with headsets through a softphone app.

Robust, powerful calling features

We're not talking just about features that look good on paper. Advanced calling features that come with cloud telephony allow you to work smart, be effective, and focus on the right tasks at the right time. You can avoid manual, repetitive tasks and step up your team collaboration and customer support.