A softphone is an application program for making phone calls over the Internet with a computer instead of dedicated hardware dedicated to making phone calls. Softphones are ideal for anyone who wants to stay in contact with family and friends, but may not have access to Internet or phone lines. Softphones are also ideal for corporate users as they can be purchased on a prepaid plan and used when needed. The term "softphone" refers to any phone that is specifically designed to function via the Internet and not a dedicated telephone handset. Softphones are similar to cell phones, however they do not come with a built-in camera or other recording equipment. These phones are used by the general public and can be purchased from a variety of retailers.
Cellular and PC based softphones also exist. PC based softphones are referred to as VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or Voice over Internet Protocol headset products. A Mobile Phone (also known as a Softphone) is any type of mobile phone that can be used with a regular telephone. Softphones are generally referred to as a hand-held unit which can be used with a regular handset as well as Internet/cell phone lines. Many companies offer special plans for corporate softphones and residential softphones. Some Softphone providers offer free VOIP minutes with purchase.
Softphones are not like conventional phones in many ways. For example, a standard phone could be used to make and receive a conference call. However, with the advent of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), a conference call can now be done using either an Internet/cell phone line or a voice over IP (VOIP) telephone. Also, a traditional telephone cannot be used to connect two softphones. This means that if you wish to make a conference call with a traditional phone, the person holding the phone would need to be connected to a traditional phone line. Softphones work differently - they can be connected to a regular telephone or to a VOIP service where they become a part of the unified communications system.
Softphones are much more cost-effective than traditional phones because they use much less data and much less wiring. This enables the owner of a softphone to have unlimited long distance, conference calling and other local area calls for a one-time setup fee. Because the owner of a softphone does not need to purchase a long distance plan or a conference line, this makes softphones much more affordable than traditional phones. In addition to the low cost of a softphone, users often enjoy the added benefit of never having to pay a large bills. Softphones also offer many features and applications that traditional phones do not offer.
Many people find the application of a softphone quite handy especially when they need access to their email, internet and other web resources while they are away from the office. Softphones also provide several remote capabilities. A common remote capabilities provided by a softphone includes: sending and receiving emails, faxes and accessing the web with web browsers.
Because of the low cost and local use factor, many people are choosing to use softphones instead of traditional phones. This is especially true in areas where the cost of long distance phone calls may be expensive. Whether you are working in a busy metropolitan area or if you live in a small rural town, you may want to consider using your cell or mobile device as part of your business communications infrastructure. However, you may want to investigate the additional costs associated with a Softphone prior to purchasing one.
One of the most important considerations you should make when deciding to switch to Softphone technology is compatibility. Some Softphones include a headset adapter to allow you to connect your Softphone to a conventional telephone. Other Softphones, however, do not have a headset adapter and must be connected to the computer via a USB port. If you plan on connecting your Softphone to the public switched telephone network, you will need to purchase a dedicated device that connects to the network in order to make and receive phone calls. In addition, some Softphones require the use of a USB modem in order to connect to the network.
The additional expense associated with a Softphone can often be negated if you purchase a mobile application that allows you to make and receive calls from your Softphone. The majority of mobile applications require that you log into your account with your mobile device and create a PIN. PINs are usually assigned by your real-time call center and are only visible to your employees during business hours. You may want to consider obtaining a high-value PIN so that you can give employees your personal contact information without the need for them to remember multiple usernames and passwords.
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