In today's fast paced digital world, communication is no longer tied to cables or office desks. VoIP numbers, or Voice over Internet Protocol numbers, are transforming the way individuals and businesses make calls, offering a more flexible, cost-efficient, and scalable alternative to traditional phone systems. Whether you're managing a customer support team, running a startup, or simply seeking a more efficient way to stay connected, understanding what a VoIP number is and how it works is essential. In this guide, we'll explore the various types of VoIP numbers, compare them to landlines, and discuss the reasons why many organizations are making the switch.
What Is a VoIP Number?
A VoIP number is a telephone number assigned to a user, not a specific phone line or physical device. Instead of relying on traditional landlines, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) numbers use the internet to send and receive calls. This means you can use your VoIP number on a mobile phone, computer, or VoIP desk phone, making communication more flexible and cost-effective.
What Is a VoIP Phone Number?
A VoIP phone number functions like any other number but operates over the internet. You can use it to make and receive calls just like a regular number, but with added advantages such as portability, low-cost international calling, and access to advanced business features like voicemail-to-email, call routing, and CRM integration.
What Is a Sinch VoIP Number?
A Sinch VoIP number is provided by Sinch, a global communications platform that offers programmable voice, messaging, and video APIs. These numbers are commonly used for automated SMS delivery, two-factor authentication, and voice messaging in customer engagement solutions.
What Is a Fixed VoIP Number?
A fixed VoIP number is linked to a specific geographic location or address, much like a traditional landline. Although it utilizes the internet, it is tied to a particular area and offers more legitimacy and trust for businesses. Fixed numbers are often used by companies that want to appear established in a specific city or region.
What Is a VoIP Number Used For?
A VoIP number isn't just a replacement for a traditional phone line; it's a powerful communication tool that adapts to the way modern businesses and individuals operate. VoIP numbers are used for far more than just making phone calls; they support a wide range of functions, including customer service, remote work, SMS marketing, international business operations, and app-based communications. Their flexibility and internet-based nature make them ideal for companies seeking scalability, mobility, and advanced features without the limitations of landline systems.
1. Business Communication
Companies widely use VoIP numbers for customer service, sales, and internal communication. Businesses can set up call forwarding, IVRs (interactive voice response systems), and voicemail-to-email features to streamline their operations.
2. Remote Work and Flexibility
Because VoIP numbers work over the internet, they're ideal for remote workers and distributed teams. Employees can make and receive business calls from anywhere using their laptops or smartphones without being tied to a physical office.
3. Mobile and Web Applications
Apps like WhatsApp, Uber, Telegram, and Google Voice use VoIP numbers for voice communication, number masking, and user verification. Many app-based businesses use VoIP to reduce costs while offering voice or SMS features.
4. Call Centers and Customer Support
VoIP is the foundation of modern call centers. With features like call queuing, live monitoring, CRM integration, and analytics, businesses can manage high call volumes with ease and insight.
5. SMS Marketing and Notifications
Some VoIP numbers (especially from providers like Twilio, Sinch, or Bandwidth) allow sending bulk SMS messages for promotions, appointment reminders, or two-factor authentication (2FA).
6. Global Presence and Local Numbers
Companies can purchase local VoIP numbers in various countries, enabling them to appear local to customers in those regions — without establishing physical offices abroad.
Types of VoIP Numbers
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Numbers | Associated with a specific area code or region |
| Vanity Numbers | Customizable numbers that spell out words (e.g., 1-800-FLOWERS) |
| Toll-Free Numbers | Numbers starting with 800, 888, 877, etc., are free for callers |
| Direct Inward Dialing (DID) | Individual numbers assigned to departments or employees |
| Virtual Numbers | Not tied to a specific location or device |
| Ported Numbers | Existing numbers transferred to a VoIP system |
| International Numbers | Used for operating or appearing local in foreign markets |
VoIP Phones vs. Landlines
| Feature | VoIP Phones | Traditional Landlines |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | Internet (Wi-Fi/Ethernet) | Copper phone lines |
| Call Quality | High (depends on the internet) | High (stable in urban areas) |
| Portability | Use anywhere with internet | Tied to physical location |
| Cost (Local/Intl) | Lower, especially international | Higher |
| Features | Call recording, voicemail-to-email, video calling | Basic calling & voicemail |
| Hardware | Optional (use apps/devices) | Requires a physical phone |
| Scalability | Easily add numbers/users | Limited and costly |
How to Get a VoIP Number
1. Choose a VoIP Provider
Start by selecting a reputable VoIP service provider. Examples include:
- Business-focused: RingCentral, Voicenter, 8x8, Nextiva
- Developer/API-based: Twilio, Bandwidth, Plivo
- Freelancer/small business: Google Voice, Grasshopper
2. Pick the Type of Number You Need
VoIP providers typically offer:
- Local numbers
- Toll-free or vanity numbers
- International numbers
- Mobile-enabled or SMS-enabled numbers
Choose based on your use case — whether you're targeting local clients, providing support, or expanding your international presence.
3. Create and Verify Your Account
Most providers require:
- A business name or personal ID
- A billing method (credit card or PayPal)
- Address verification (especially for fixed or international numbers)
Some regions may have compliance rules for VoIP (e.g., KYC/AML in Europe or India).
4. Select a Plan or Pay-As-You-Go Option
Some services offer monthly packages, while others charge per minute/message. Choose a pricing model that suits your needs.
5. Set Up Your Device or App
You can use your VoIP number via:
- Desktop or mobile app
- VoIP desk phone or softphone
- Browser (some services are web-based)
Most services offer instant activation, allowing you to begin making and receiving calls immediately.
What Is a Level 3 VoIP Number?
A Level 3 VoIP number is issued by Level 3 Communications, now part of Lumen Technologies. These numbers are part of the original backbone of the internet and telecom infrastructure. They're used by major service providers and are known for reliability and high call quality.
What Is a Bandwidth VoIP Number?
As mentioned earlier, this is a VoIP number issued by Bandwidth, a Tier 1 carrier that powers many top brands. It offers secure, high-volume, enterprise-grade numbers for voice and messaging.
Why Should You Get a VoIP Number?
1. Cost Savings
VoIP calls are typically much cheaper than landline or mobile network calls, especially for long-distance and international calls.
2. Advanced Features for Productivity
Get features like:
- Call forwarding
- Voicemail transcription
- Auto attendant menus
- Call routing based on time or department
- These tools help you stay professional and responsive.
3. Work from Anywhere
With a VoIP number, your phone system follows you wherever you go. Whether you're on a laptop in a café or using a mobile phone abroad, you're always connected.
4. Scalable for Growing Teams
Add or remove users, numbers, or extensions as needed instantly. VoIP is perfect for startups and businesses that scale rapidly.
5. Improve Customer Experience
VoIP enables you to offer localized support, automated menus, hold music, and more, all of which contribute to an enhanced service experience.
6. Professional Branding
A dedicated business number (local or toll-free) gives your brand more credibility than using a personal mobile number.
How to Get a VoIP Number?
If you're looking for a quick summary, here's how to get a VoIP number step by step:
- Pick a Provider – Choose a service that fits your size and needs
- Choose Number Type – Local, international, vanity, or toll-free
- Sign Up – Create your account and verify your identity if needed
- Pick a Plan – Subscription or pay-as-you-go
- Configure Your Setup – Install the app or connect your device
- Start Calling – Your number is live and ready to use!
Conclusion
As technology continues to evolve, VoIP numbers offer a modern, reliable, and cost-effective solution for both personal and business communication needs. From local and international calling to advanced features like virtual numbers and call routing, VoIP empowers users to stay connected anywhere, anytime. Whether you're looking to streamline operations, expand your global presence, or reduce telecom costs, switching to VoIP could be a game changer. Now that you understand what VoIP numbers are and how to get one, the next step is simple: choose the right provider and unlock the full potential of internet-based calling.