voip vs traditional landlines

Looking for information on VoIP vs Traditional Landlines – see our little guide below.

The way we communicate is changing, and the choice between Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and traditional landlines has never been more critical. As businesses and households prepare for the UK’s ongoing digital transformation, understanding your options is vital. This blog explores the key differences between VoIP and landlines, practical broadband solutions for rural areas, and why now is the perfect time to make the switch.

What Is VoIP?

VoIP allows you to make phone calls using an internet connection rather than traditional copper wires. Calls are transmitted as digital data packets, allowing for cost-effective and feature-rich communication. Unlike traditional phone systems, VoIP enables businesses to customise their communication setup with advanced features.

What Are Traditional Landlines?

Traditional landlines rely on analogue signals transmitted through a copper wire network. While they have been the backbone of communication for over a century, they are increasingly outdated. The UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is set to be retired by 31 January 2027, making the move to digital systems like VoIP a necessity.

Why Choose VoIP?

VoIP offers a range of advantages that make it a compelling choice for businesses and homes:

1. Cost Savings

VoIP services generally cost less than traditional landlines, especially for long-distance and international calls. There’s also no need for expensive hardware, as VoIP works over your existing internet connection.

2. Enhanced Features

VoIP systems like Plexatalk go beyond basic voice communication, offering tools that boost efficiency and improve customer service. These include:

  • IVR (Interactive Voice Response)/Auto Attendant: Route calls efficiently with automated menus.
  • Call Queues and Call Centre Features: Manage high volumes of incoming calls without compromising customer experience.
  • Custom Voicemail: Tailored messages to suit your business needs.
  • Call Recording: For training, compliance, or quality assurance purposes.
  • App Integration: Connect your communication tools with CRM and other business systems.

3. Flexibility

VoIP allows you to work from anywhere with an internet connection, making it perfect for remote and hybrid working environments.

4. Future-Proofing

With the PSTN switch-off approaching, VoIP ensures your communication systems are ready for the future, avoiding the risks of outdated technology.

Addressing VoIP Reliability Concerns

One of the biggest concerns about VoIP is reliability during internet or power outages. However, these challenges can be mitigated with modern solutions:

  • Multiple Internet Connections:
    VoIP can use a primary broadband connection, such as Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) or Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC), alongside a backup like 5G or satellite internet (e.g., Starlink) to ensure uninterrupted service.
  • Power Outages:
    A Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) can keep your router and phones powered during a blackout. Depending on the UPS model, you can maintain communication for hours, ensuring no disruption during short or medium-length outages.

With these measures in place, VoIP can match or even exceed the reliability of traditional landlines.

Solutions for Broadband in Rural Areas

A reliable internet connection is crucial for VoIP. For rural areas where traditional broadband may be limited, there are excellent alternatives:

  1. 5G Broadband:
    Providers like EE, Three, and Vodafone offer fast, reliable 5G home internet in many rural locations.
  2. Satellite Internet (e.g., Starlink):
    Starlink delivers high-speed satellite broadband with near-global coverage, making it ideal for remote areas with poor traditional broadband infrastructure.
  3. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA):
    FWA uses radio signals to provide high-speed internet, bypassing the need for physical cables.
  4. Community Fibre Projects:
    Funded by initiatives like the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme, community-led projects can help install fibre broadband in underserved areas.

These options make VoIP viable even in locations where traditional broadband services fall short.

Why Switch Now?

Although the PSTN switch-off has been extended to 2027, delaying your transition to VoIP could leave you vulnerable to disruptions. Moving to VoIP now lets you enjoy lower costs, advanced features, and greater flexibility, giving you a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Why Choose Plexatalk for your VoIP Phone system?

At Plexatalk, we specialise in VoIP solutions that are tailored to meet the needs of UK businesses and homes. With a focus on reliability and functionality, our services include:

  • Comprehensive IVR and Auto Attendant options.
  • Advanced call queues and call centre features.
  • Custom voicemail and call recording for professional communication and compliance.
  • Seamless app integration to streamline your workflows.
  • Expert support to help you set up backup internet connections or UPS solutions to maximise reliability.

Our VoIP systems are designed to be easy to use, scalable, and cost-effective, ensuring you’re ready for the future of communication.

Explore our competitive pricing and packages at /pricing/.

For most UK businesses and homes, VoIP is the smarter choice. With its cost savings, advanced features, and adaptability, it offers a clear path forward in an increasingly digital world. Coupled with backup options like 5G, satellite internet, and UPS systems, VoIP can provide reliable, uninterrupted communication that matches or surpasses traditional landlines.

The future of communication is digital—don’t wait until 2027. Contact Plexatalk today to discuss how our VoIP solutions can transform the way you communicate and future-proof your business.

How To Keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP

Image from Wikimedia Commons

How To Keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP – With the rise of Voice over IP (VoIP) as a cost-effective, flexible solution for phone services, many businesses are making the switch from traditional phone lines. However, for shops, restaurants, takeaways, hotels, and other customer-facing businesses, this transition often comes with an unexpected downside—loss of Caller ID integration in their EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) or booking systems. Many of these systems rely on 56K USB or serial modems to capture Caller ID data, but these modems typically don’t work with digital VoIP systems.

We’ve been researching this issue in-depth and have been in touch with a company that has developed a custom solution designed to restore Caller ID functionality in VoIP environments without requiring costly software upgrades. In this post, we’ll cover why Caller ID stops working after switching to VoIP, and how this solution can bring Caller ID back to your existing EPOS or booking system for a range of applications, including hotel booking software, takeaway EPOS systems, kebab shop EPOS software, and more.

Why Caller ID Stops Working with VoIP

Traditional Caller ID systems in EPOS and booking software rely on analogue technology to detect and decode Caller ID data from landline signals. Here’s a quick look at how these systems operate:

  1. Analogue Signal Detection: On a standard landline, Caller ID data is sent in analogue format between the first and second ring.
  2. Decoding Process: A 56K USB or serial modem detects this analogue signal, decodes it, and converts it into a readable format that the EPOS system can display as the caller’s name or number.
  3. Data Transfer to EPOS: This decoded Caller ID data is then fed to the EPOS system, allowing staff to view the caller’s information before answering the call.

In a VoIP setup, however, calls are transmitted digitally rather than in analogue format. While VoIP systems do carry Caller ID information, it’s in a digital format that is incompatible with 56K USB or serial modems, which are designed to decode analogue signals. This results in the loss of Caller ID integration for businesses that have switched to VoIP.

How To Keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP

For businesses that rely on Caller ID integration with their EPOS or booking systems, losing this functionality can be disruptive. Some providers may recommend expensive software updates or full system replacements to make your setup compatible with VoIP-based Caller ID. However, these solutions are often prohibitively costly, and they may still not work seamlessly with existing systems.

After extensive research, we’ve identified a practical solution. We’ve partnered with a company that specialises in custom Caller ID integration for VoIP setups, and they’ve developed a device that can bridge the gap between your VoIP line and traditional Caller ID modems. This device captures Caller ID data from VoIP calls, converts it into a format that’s compatible with 56K or serial modems, and allows you to maintain Caller ID functionality with your existing EPOS or booking system.

How the Solution Works

This custom solution is designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of EPOS and booking systems, including those used in hotels, takeaways, kebab shops, restaurants, and other retail businesses. Here’s an overview of how it works:

  1. VoIP Compatibility: The device captures Caller ID data directly from the VoIP data stream.
  2. Data Conversion: It then converts the digital Caller ID information into an analogue signal or compatible data format that can be read by traditional Caller ID modems.
  3. Integration with EPOS Systems: Once converted, the Caller ID information is passed to the EPOS system as though it were coming from a traditional landline, restoring functionality without the need for software changes.

This solution is compatible with many popular EPOS and booking systems used in different types of businesses, including hotel booking software, takeaway shop EPOS systems, kebab shop software, and general retail EPOS systems.

Benefits of Our Custom Caller ID Solution for VoIP

Here’s why this custom Caller ID solution is ideal for businesses looking to maintain Caller ID functionality after switching to VoIP:

  • Cost-Effective: It avoids the need for expensive software updates or replacements, saving time and money.
  • Easy Installation: The device is simple to set up and integrates seamlessly with most EPOS and booking systems, minimising operational disruption.
  • Future-Proof: As more businesses switch to VoIP, this solution ensures that your EPOS system remains compatible for years to come.
  • Compatibility Across Various Systems: This solution works with a wide range of EPOS and booking systems, including those for hotels, takeaways, retail shops, and more.

Get Caller ID Back in Your EPOS System

If your business has switched to VoIP and lost Caller ID functionality, we’re here to help you restore it. This custom solution allows you to enjoy the advantages of modern VoIP phone services while maintaining essential Caller ID integration with your EPOS or booking system. We’ve already helped many businesses—whether it’s hotel booking software, takeaway EPOS systems, or general retail setups—restore this function, and we’d be happy to assist you in getting Caller ID back on track.

Switching to VoIP doesn’t mean you have to lose Caller ID. Contact us today to discuss how our solution can bring Caller ID back to your EPOS system, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to VoIP without disrupting your business operations.

FAQs: How to Keep Caller ID in Your EPOS with VoIP

Switching to VoIP can disrupt Caller ID functionality for businesses that rely on it in their EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) and booking systems. Below, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions about keeping Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP and how our custom solution can help.

What adapter connects my phone to EPOS to show who is calling?

The adapter that connects betwen the phone like and PC is called a 56k modem.

Do 56K modems work with VoIP?

Traditional 56K modems rely on analogue phone signals to decode Caller ID information. Since VoIP systems transmit data digitally, these modems can no longer detect Caller ID, as they were never designed for digital VoIP lines. To keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP, you’ll need an alternative solution—such as our custom Caller ID adapter—to restore this functionality without a costly EPOS software upgrade.

Is there an alternative to a 56K modem for VoIP?

Yes, there is an alternative to a 56K modem for VoIP. We’ve partnered with a company that has developed a specialised Caller ID adapter for VoIP, designed to bridge the gap between digital VoIP lines and analogue EPOS systems. This adapter captures the Caller ID data from the VoIP stream, converts it to an analogue format compatible with your EPOS system, and restores Caller ID display. This solution works with many systems, including those used in hotels, takeaways, retail shops, and restaurants.

How can I fix my EPOS so it shows the Caller ID again?

To fix your EPOS system so it shows Caller ID after switching to VoIP, you’ll need a device that makes the digital VoIP Caller ID compatible with your existing setup. Our custom solution involves a specialised adapter that extracts the Caller ID data from VoIP calls and converts it into a format that can be read by your EPOS system. This allows you to keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP without a costly overhaul or upgrade.

What is the easiest way to keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP?

The easiest way to keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP is to use a specialised Caller ID adapter, like the one we’ve identified through our research. This adapter captures the Caller ID from VoIP calls and translates it into a format that traditional EPOS systems can read. Unlike an EPOS software upgrade, which can be costly and time-consuming, this adapter provides a cost-effective and seamless solution that doesn’t disrupt your operations.

Will this Caller ID solution work with my type of EPOS system?

Our custom Caller ID adapter is designed to work with a wide variety of EPOS systems, including those used by hotels, restaurants, takeaways, retail shops, and more. If you’re using hotel booking software, kebab shop EPOS software, general retail EPOS software, or takeaway booking systems, this adapter should be compatible and restore Caller ID functionality.

Why do businesses lose Caller ID in their EPOS when switching to VoIP?

When businesses switch to VoIP, their phone system becomes digital. Traditional 56K USB or serial modems used for Caller ID detection rely on analogue signals, which are no longer present in a VoIP setup. VoIP transmits calls over the internet as data packets, and without a specialised adapter, the EPOS system can’t detect the Caller ID data. This is why it’s essential to have a VoIP-compatible Caller ID solution to keep Caller ID in your EPOS with VoIP.

What’s involved in setting up this Caller ID solution?

Setting up the Caller ID adapter is straightforward and designed to minimise disruption. Once connected, the adapter captures Caller ID data from VoIP calls and sends it to your EPOS as if it were from a traditional phone line, restoring functionality. This solution is compatible with many popular EPOS systems used in various business sectors, including hotel booking, takeaway, and retail systems.

how to keep your landline when switching to fttp

Looking at how to keep your landline when switching to fttp / fibre broadband? You’ve come to the right place!

Switching to fibre broadband is an excellent way to enjoy faster, more reliable internet. But if you rely on your landline, either for convenience or as a backup, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to keep your landline when moving to fibre. The answer is yes! Thanks to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), you can retain your landline number even when upgrading to fibre broadband.

With the traditional copper-based landline network set to be phased out in January 2027, now is a great time to make the switch to fibre and set up VoIP. In this guide, we’ll explain how you can keep your landline number when moving to fibre broadband, the benefits of FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) over FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet), and why VoIP is the solution for a seamless transition.

Understanding Fibre Broadband: FTTP vs. FTTC

When considering a switch to fibre broadband, it’s important to understand the difference between two main types of fibre technology:

  1. FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet): Often branded as “superfast” by providers like BT, FTTC uses fibre optic cables up to the street cabinet and then relies on traditional copper cables from the cabinet to your home. While faster than ADSL, FTTC’s reliance on copper means that speeds can drop significantly over long distances.
  2. FTTP (Fibre to the Premises): Known as “ultrafast” broadband, FTTP delivers a full fibre connection directly to your home, eliminating copper entirely. This setup provides the highest speeds, best reliability, and future-proof connectivity, making it ideal for homes with high internet demands.

By switching to FTTP, you’re ensuring that your home is equipped with the best possible broadband infrastructure, providing stable, fast, and future-ready internet for years to come.

Why Switch to FTTP for Better Internet?

Switching to FTTP brings many benefits beyond just higher speeds. Here’s why it’s worth considering a full-fibre setup:

  • Faster Speeds: With FTTP, you can access some of the fastest internet speeds available, which is perfect for streaming in HD, online gaming, video calls, and households with multiple users.
  • Reliable Connection: Unlike FTTC, which relies on copper wiring, FTTP is unaffected by distance or interference, providing a more stable and consistent connection.
  • Future-Proof Technology: As more devices become internet-enabled, a full-fibre connection ensures that your home can handle the growing demand for bandwidth.

Switching to FTTP isn’t just about better speeds—it’s a proactive way to ensure your internet remains reliable and capable of handling future technology.

How to Keep Your Landline When Switching to FTTP

One of the biggest concerns people have when moving to fibre broadband is whether they can keep their existing landline number. Since FTTP doesn’t use traditional copper phone lines, you’ll need to move your landline to a digital service known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) to keep it. Here’s how VoIP can help you seamlessly transition to fibre broadband without losing your landline.

What is VoIP?

VoIP is a digital phone service that allows you to make and receive calls over your internet connection rather than through a traditional phone line. This technology offers numerous advantages:

  1. Clear Call Quality: VoIP often provides high-definition voice quality, which can be clearer than traditional landlines.
  2. Flexibility with Devices: You can continue using your existing phone with a VoIP adapter or choose a VoIP-enabled phone. VoIP services also allow you to forward calls to your mobile, giving you the flexibility to take calls anywhere.
  3. Cost-Effective: VoIP can be more affordable, especially with no additional line rental fees.

How to Set Up VoIP to Keep Your Landline Number

Setting up VoIP is straightforward, and many providers offer hassle-free options for porting your current landline number to VoIP. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Choose a VoIP Provider: Look for a reliable VoIP provider that offers clear call quality and seamless integration with your broadband. A UK-based provider like Plexatalk offers VoIP services for just £10 per month, with no cost to port your landline number.
  2. Set Up Your Phone:
    • Use a VoIP Adapter: If you want to keep using your existing phone, you can connect it to a VoIP adapter, which will allow it to make calls over your fibre broadband.
    • Forward Calls to Mobile: If you’re frequently on the go, VoIP allows you to set up call forwarding to your mobile, so calls to your landline reach you wherever you are.
    • Dual Ringing Setup: Many VoIP services also offer dual ringing, so calls ring on both your landline and mobile, giving you the ultimate flexibility.
  3. Enjoy the Benefits of Fibre and VoIP: Once set up, you’ll have a full-fibre connection for superfast internet and a VoIP service that lets you keep your landline number.

Why Choose VoIP with a Provider like Plexatalk?

There are many VoIP providers on the market, but selecting the right one is crucial to a smooth experience. Here’s why Plexatalk is a great choice:

  • UK-Based Service: As a UK-based provider, Plexatalk offers local support for consumers and businesses, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly.
  • Reliable Service: Plexatalk’s VoIP is designed to deliver dependable call quality and stability, backed by excellent customer support.
  • Hassle-Free Setup: With easy porting of your existing landline number and minimal setup requirements, Plexatalk offers a seamless way to move your landline to VoIP.

Plexatalk’s services are ideal for those looking for an affordable, reliable, and UK-based VoIP provider that serves both residential and business users.

Key Benefits of VoIP with Fibre Broadband

Making the switch to fibre broadband with VoIP offers several additional benefits:

  • One Connection for All: With VoIP, your internet and phone services both run through the same fibre connection, reducing the need for multiple service lines and simplifying your setup.
  • Flexible Calling Options: VoIP provides options for call forwarding, multi-device ringing, and remote access, so you can answer calls on your mobile, computer, or landline phone.
  • Emergency Preparedness: While VoIP relies on internet connectivity, some VoIP setups can be combined with mobile backup options, ensuring you’re reachable in emergencies.

What to Know About the 2027 Landline Switch-Off

The national landline switch-off is scheduled for January 2027. By then, the UK’s traditional copper network will be fully retired, and all landline users will need to have switched to VoIP if they want to keep their landline number.

This transition is part of a broader shift toward digital technology that will allow for faster, more reliable, and future-proof communications. By setting up VoIP now, you’re ahead of the game and well-prepared for 2027. VoIP allows you to retain your current landline number and use it seamlessly over your new fibre connection.

Common Questions About Switching to Fibre and VoIP

How can I switch to FTTP and keep my landline?

If you’re wondering how keep your landline and switch to FTTP, at Plexatalk we can help you (or your business if you’re a business owner) switch over to VoIP. It’s a straightforward process, get in touch today for more infromation.

Will my landline phone work with VoIP?

Yes, you can keep using your existing landline phone with a VoIP adapter. The adapter will enable your phone to make and receive calls over your fibre broadband connection.

Can I keep my current phone number when I switch to VoIP?

Yes! Most VoIP providers, including Plexatalk, allow you to port your existing landline number over to VoIP at no extra cost.

What if I switch FTTP supplier?

Because your landline number is no longer attached to your broadband provider, you can go wherever you like without fear of losing your number or the stress of porting.

What happens if there’s a power cut?

Traditional landlines often work during power outages, but VoIP does not. For emergency access, consider a mobile phone backup or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for short-term outages. There is also the option to setup your landline to go to your mobile or VoIP apps which can work over data.

Do I need to upgrade my broadband to use VoIP?

Generally no, as long as you’re getting about 1Mbps that will be enough to sustain one concurrent VoIP call.

Can I forward my landline calls to my mobile?

Yes, VoIP allows you to forward calls to your mobile, ensuring you’re reachable even when away from home.

Making the Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Select Your Fibre Broadband Provider: When choosing an FTTP provider, look for one that offers reliable service and competitive rates.
  2. Contact a VoIP Provider (Like Plexatalk): For £10 a month, Plexatalk offers an easy, cost-effective way to keep your landline number with no porting fees. Simply visit plexatalk.co.uk/contact to get started.
  3. Set Up Your VoIP Connection: With fibre and VoIP in place, you’ll enjoy faster internet and keep your landline number.

Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Your Connection with Fibre and VoIP

Upgrading to fibre broadband and setting up VoIP isn’t just about faster speeds—it’s about preparing for a future where all communications are digital. With the 2027 landline switch-off on the horizon, transitioning to VoIP with a provider like Plexatalk ensures you can switch to fibre broadband and keep your landline without any inconvenience.

VoIP provides the flexibility and reliability of a traditional landline but with the enhanced features and clarity of digital service. Ready to make the switch? Get a quote from Plexatalk today and future-proof your home or business with fibre broadband and VoIP.

In today’s business world, having a versatile phone number is crucial for effective communication. 0333 numbers are a popular choice due to their non-geographic nature and cost-effectiveness. If you’ve been wondering, “How much to call an 0333 number?” this guide will provide you with all the details you need to understand the costs involved.

What Are 0333 Numbers?

0333 numbers belong to the 03 series in the UK, which was introduced to provide businesses with a flexible alternative to traditional geographic phone numbers. These numbers are not tied to a specific location, making them ideal for companies with a national reach. They are similar to 01 and 02 numbers in that they are not free to call but offer predictable and reasonable charges.

How Much to Call an 0333 Number from a Mobile Phone

When dialing an 0333 number from your mobile phone, the cost is aligned with the rates for calling standard landline numbers, such as those starting with 01 or 02. This means:

  • Inclusive Minutes: If your mobile plan includes minutes for landline calls, calls to 0333 numbers will be covered under this allowance. Essentially, you won’t face additional charges beyond your regular plan costs.
  • Exceeding Inclusive Minutes: Should you exceed your allotted minutes, you will be charged according to your mobile provider’s standard rates. Ofcom indicates that this could range from 3p to 65p per minute, depending on your tariff and provider.

How Much to Call an 0333 Number from a Landline

For calls made from a landline, the costs are as follows:

  • Standard Charges: 0333 numbers are not free from landlines. The typical cost to call these numbers ranges up to 16p per minute.
  • Call Set-Up Fee: Many landline providers also charge a call set-up fee, which is often around 23p, though this can vary.

Why Choose an 0333 Number?

0333 numbers offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for businesses:

  1. National Reach: These numbers provide a nationwide presence without being tied to a specific location, which is beneficial for businesses operating across the UK.
  2. Predictable Costs: The cost structure for 0333 numbers is transparent and consistent with standard landline rates, making budgeting easier.
  3. Flexible Setup: 0333 numbers can be redirected to various devices, such as mobile phones or landlines, offering flexibility in how calls are managed.

How Plexatalk Can Help

At Plexatalk, we offer a range of 0333 numbers tailored to suit your business needs. Whether you’re looking to acquire a new number or port an existing one, our team can provide expert guidance and support. We understand that the world of business telephony can be complex, and we’re here to help simplify it for you.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today to explore your options and find the best 0333 number solution for your business. Feel free to reach out at 0345 0178 179 or email us at info@plexatalk.co.uk.