Virtual Phone Number: What is it & How to use it?
Everything you need to know about virtual telephone numbers for Business
If you are trying to improve your local presence in a specific area, you may have considered creating a virtual telephone number for your business. You may be wondering what exactly is a virtual telephone number and how does it work? We answer this and more in the guide below…
What is a virtual phone number?
A virtual phone number is an alternative to a landline phone system and operates without the equipment-intensive needs of a landline. Virtual phone numbers are generally cheaper than landlines and can be used linked to a specific location without the need for there to be a physical office in that area.
How does a virtual phone number work?
The virtual number works by, You simply specify your desired area code and VoIP provider will give you a virtual phone number that rings just like a local call, but is actually routed to your real number. This way, no matter where you are, your loved ones can always reach you hands-free!
All VoIP phone service providers recommend high-speed internet for a high definition call quality. The internet you use impacts the call quality greatly! So, a reliable & robust connection is in order to make the best out of virtual phones.
Difference between virtual number & telephone number
A virtual number is a telephone number that is not associated with a specific physical phone. It can be used to route calls to any phone, regardless of its location.
Why use virtual phone numbers when one already has a local number routed to a landline? The answer lies in the difference in functionality between the two. The phone number for your business is tied to a specific phone device using a single phone line in case of landlines. Phone lines require to be physically connected by the phone company.
So, you work over a single phone line & your customer base increases. The call traffic builds up, and it's only a matter of time before it wreaks havoc! But using a virtual phone number offers cloud phone networks. These numbers serve the same purpose without the need to be tied to a physical device. A virtual number uses a cloud-based telephone system that uses VoIP numbers. The Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology makes this hyper-efficient compared to its alternative.
Virtual phone line vs landline
Virtual phones and landlines are two different things, but they both offer the ability to make telephone calls using technology. Virtual phone services allow users to communicate via their computers, smartphones or other devices, while landlines use wires and cables to transmit signals between two points. Whether you're looking for an alternative to traditional phones or just want to stay connected while on the go, a virtual phone is perfect for you!
One of the benefits to using a virtual Phone number UK is that you can continue to work from home or any other location, without having to travel. This is especially helpful if you have a job that requires you to be on-site regularly. Additionally, virtual numbers are great for businesses that need to scale their operations without sacrificing quality.
How to Get Your Virtual Phone Number in United Kingdom?
Activating a virtual phone number UK is a simple process with The VoIP shop, one of the leading virtual phone number providers in the UK. Here are the steps you need to take to get your virtual phone number:
Step 1: Choose a UK numbers based virtual phone number and Sign up for an account with The VoIP Shop.
Step 2: Once you have an account with The VoIP shop, you can select the type of virtual phone number you want (e.g. local, toll-free, international) and choose a specific number.
Step 3: Configure your virtual phone number settings with The VoIP shop. This typically includes options like call forwarding, voicemail, call routing and other features that you need.
Step 4: Set up your call handling. You can choose to have calls forwarded to a landline or mobile number, or even to a VoIP app on your computer or mobile device.
Step 5: Once you've completed the setup, you can start using your virtual phone number for business or personal use.
Note: The process may vary slightly depending on the specific services you choose, so it's always a good idea to check the The VoIP shop website for specific instructions.
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What Are the +44 Virtual Phone Numbers Available United Kingdom?
There are several types of +44 virtual phone numbers available in the United Kingdom, including:
- Local numbers: These numbers have a specific area code and are typically used for businesses with a physical presence in that area.
- Local British Virtual Phone numbers available in United Kingdom:
- Leicester Area Code: 0116
- London Area Code: 0203, 207, 208, 204, 202
- Manchester Area Code: 161
- Leeds Area Code: 113
- Birmingham Area Code: 121
- Liverpool Area Code: 151
- Southampton Area Code: 23
- Glasgow Area Code: 141
- Newcastle Area Code: 191
- Toll Free Numbers: 80
- Toll-free numbers: (80) These numbers are free for the caller to dial and are often used by businesses for customer service lines or sales lines.
- International numbers: These numbers can be used by businesses that want to expand into the UK market or by individuals living abroad who want a UK number.
- Vanity numbers: These are customized numbers that spell out a specific word or phrase, making them easy to remember.
- Non-geographic numbers (NGN): These numbers are not associated with a specific geographic location and can be used by businesses that operate in multiple locations or want to appear as a national company.
Know your virtual phone number providers
The UK-based virtual phone number providers are The VoIP Shop, BT, Nextiva etc.
Virtual phone numbers are available with VoIP service providers. They offer a wide range of plans to choose from. Some of the notable features are,
- Uncapped calling limits
- Usage of multiple virtual phone numbers
You can set up a virtual phone number by selecting a subscription plan that best suits you. Once the payment is paid, the virtual number is live & ready for usage. If you use multiple phone numbers, the service provider might charge you per number. There are free virtual phone numbers that can also be used. But the flip side is that they have restrictions on usage. Some of these restrictions are limited call duration and limited user access. But read in detail the offerings before spending any of your precious penny!
Benefits of a virtual phone system
Below are some benefits of using a virtual phone number that positively impact your business.
- Ability to port existing phone number to a virtual phone number.
- Virtual phone providers cover the entire range, viz., local numbers, vanity numbers, toll-free numbers & international numbers.
- Provisions to tie specific virtual numbers to specific regional operations.
- As a software, it is light on capital investments compared to the alternative.
- It can be set to forward calls to mobile phones if unanswered.
- Calls can be routed to specific personnel based on language, time zone, or location.
- Compatible with PC & smartphone installations, it aids in the collaboration of remote teams.
- It can be set to distribute the calls amongst the available personnel automatically.
- Provides dashboards to monitor the performance of your team around the clock.
- Route a call to a ring group after a set number of rings or a specific waiting period.
Replace your phone line using a virtual phone
The best thing having a virtual phone can do is make you take calls anywhere. The days when the desk is the only place for answering calls are yesteryear things. This feature alone reduces the instances of voicemails being sent to unanswered calls.
Even if it goes to voicemail, a virtual phone can alert you through an e-mail in seconds. So, you are always kept up-to-date on who's calling for what. The immediate outcome would be a client delighted to be part of your business. So, embrace the progress on the digital front using a virtual phone number.
Conclusion: Get a virtual telephone number for your business!
Enough benefits that your customers would experience. Now, let's consider what a virtual phone number can do for your employees. Virtual phones have a feature to conceal the caller ID of the employee while being used. This takes a step in the right direction by isolating their personal information from being slipped onto the lesser-known business network. Safeguarding personal information is of the highest interest with the increasing incidents of cybersecurity threats. A virtual phone number comes to the rescue right on time!
It provides ample choices to serve your clients better while upholding the privacy of your employees. It has a flexible interface capable of being installed on any PC or smartphone, providing data 24x7 to monitor your team's performance. So, why wait? Get your virtual phone number now!
FAQ
Why do people use virtual phone numbers?
Virtual phone numbers are a great way for people to stay connected without having to worry about their phone being lost or stolen. They're also a great way for people to keep their phone number separate from their personal identity, which can be helpful in certain situations.
Are virtual numbers safe?
In short: Yes, Virtual phone numbers provide an extra layer of security for your calls and messages. If you use them for regular calls and messages, they won't bother you as much as using a conventional analogue line.
How do you know if a number is a virtual number?
There is no definitive way to know for sure, but some indicators that a number might be a virtual number include the fact that it does not have a corresponding physical address, or if it is extraordinarily large compared to other numbers.
Why use a virtual number?
Virtual numbers can be a great way to keep your business organized and running smoothly. They allow you to connect with customers and employees from anywhere in the world, which can save you time and money.
How do I get a virtual phone number in the UK?
To get a virtual phone number in the UK, you can sign up with a virtual phone number provider. Some popular providers include The VoIP Shop, Ringover, and 8×8. Once you have signed up, you can choose a UK phone number and start making and receiving calls.
How can I get a free virtual UK number?
There are a few ways to get a free virtual UK number. One way is to use a free VoIP service like Google Voice. Another way is to sign up for a free trial with a virtual phone number provider.
What is the best UK virtual number service?
The best UK virtual number service for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Some factors to consider include the features offered, the price, and the customer support. Some popular UK virtual number services include:
- The VoIP Shop
- CallHippo
- 8×8
- Vonage
- Phone.com
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