What Is a POTS Line? How Is It Different From VoIP?

As society advances its communication processes, businesses and individuals are looking to make a switch from traditional phone lines (POTS) to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). 

Although POTS is a widely known and reliable platform, this one is not rich in features and is also way more expensive. On the other hand, VoIP phones rely on the internet to deliver a calling service, which can be feature-rich and possibly cheap.

So, today, we’ll be understanding what both these technologies are and how is POTS line different from VoIP. Alright then, let’s get things going!

What Is a POTS Line?

POTS stands for Plain Old Telephone Service; it is a traditional circuit-switched line that is used to transmit analog voice signals. This is also called a Public Switched Telephone Network or PSTN at times.

The actual physical links between network devices, especially endpoints employing copper wires twisted in pairs, are referred to as POTS lines. Since the beginning of the invention of telephone equipment in the period 1880, telephone service has remained the main tool of passing information between individuals and organizations.

Whenever you dial a number and then speak into a POTS line phone, the signal is converted into an electrical impulse and transmitted over copper wire to the call recipient. The signals sent through those lines that connect your phone system to a local exchange are the tones you hear when you’re in the process of the call.

Initially, the system was known as the Post Office, but later, it developed into a complex system.

What Is VoIP?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology by which you can make phone calls with the help of an internet connection rather than an analog phone line. VoIP technology converts the voice signal used in traditional phone calls into a digital signal that transmits via the Internet.

Since all calls are made over the Internet, they are essentially free wherever the Internet is available. VoIP is a helpful technology for both businesses and individuals since it comes with additional features that are not available in standard telephony services.

Some of these features are voicemail to email, call recording, call forwarding, call analytics, and many more. It can also be beneficial to sales organizations since they may be able to use it to promote efficient communications.0

How is POTS line different from VoIP: Key Differences

Here are some of the key differences between Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

Advantages and Disadvantages of POTS Line and VoIP

POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service)

Advantages

• Reliable: It is not affected by an internet connection because it doesn’t utilize one, though it can still synchronize in its absence.
• Easy to use: The technology is generally known and everyone can take advantage of using it, and setting up is easy.
• Clear sound quality: It comes as a package with the necessary features intact which is a good thing because the sound quality does not fluctuate due to changes in the internet connection.
• Emergency functionality: On the other hand, this feature relies on the capability of the phone provider, and thus this feature could still be usable during the blackouts.

Disadvantages

• Restricted features: It doesn’t offer more advanced calling features than the previously mentioned basic call set.
• Increased expenses: Least charges, especially those that relate to phone calls which are made over immense distances.
• Less adaptable: Mobility is restricted, and employees cannot work remotely because of the infrastructure setup.
• Limited scalability: Often, it is difficult merely to gain phone lines or even to delete them.
• Outdated technology: This is because over a period of time, it becomes quite difficult to find upgrading parts or new parts for your devices.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

Advantages

• Economical: Offers PSTN-like calling options with multiple limitless features at a much lower price than POTS.

• Rich in features: Forwarding of calls, conferences with or without video, voice messages to email, and more.

• Flexible: Being perfect for remote working, it may be controlled from any place with an internet connection and any device.

• Scalable: The plan is very flexible as it is easy to add or subtract a few phone lines because of the changing needs.
• Modern technology: This may be connected with other digital tools and may offer (possibly) better/ clearer sound quality.

Disadvantages

• Dependency on the Internet: The nature and reliability of the connection, in terms of steadiness and available speed, may affect the quality of the calls.

• Power outages: Telecommunications could stop working if there is no power backup plan to enable virtual phone systems to be in service in case of a power failure.

• Security issues: To ensure the protection of this data, reliable internet security measures must be implemented.

• Initial setup: This may need some technical knowledge to be achieved.

POTS Line and VOIP: Use Cases and Suitability

POTS is suitable for:

• Low call volume: This is because the reliability and usability of POTS may even outperform VoIP’s cost savings if you do not use the phone often.
• Areas with unsuitable Internet: The reason that POTS stands to provide dependable phone connectivity in regions where the Internet connection is unpredictable or slow.
• Essential phone requirements: It is beneficial for simple communication needs, which in some cases do not include features such as voicemail to email or conference calling.
• Older systems: If there is any equipment that requires a dedicated phone line in your company, such as security systems or fax machines.

VoIP is suitable for:

• High call volume: On the other hand, VoIP can be much cheaper than the per minute charges of POTS, especially for organizations or persons who make calls frequently in their unlimited plans.
• Work from home: Because VoIP is based on the internet it lets companies make and take calls from anywhere they have internet connectivity – very handy for remote workers.
• Rich feature set: VoIP offers more flexibility in features compared to traditional phone services, such as call forwarding, video conferencing, voicemail to mail, and others.
• Scalability: VoIP is the easiest way to add or to subtract phone lines depending on the needs of the business, and this is particularly applicable to firms that wish to expand.
• Users on a tight budget: VoIP unlimited local and international calling plans may be very cost effective to those who have limited cash to spend.

Transitioning from POTS to VoIP

1. Assess Your Needs

• Call volume: What would be your average call connectivities on both an outgoing and incoming basis?
• Features: Due to email, conferences, and, most essentially, calling, do you need voicemail?
• Internet: Is the speed and reliability necessary for VoIP calls adequate (minimum speed requirements for the specific provider may apply)?
• Budget: Consider one-time costs (phones, installation) that are not repeated, as well as the costs that are repeated, usually at a regular interval (VoIP plans).

2. Pick a VoIP Service Provider

For your research about local VoIP service providers, please refer to the following web links and information. Start by defining or filtering plans in terms of their features and costs, the number of minutes offered, and, if necessary, it can look into international calling.

Remember about the level of customer relations offering and the availability of the IT support.

3. Transfer Your Phone Numbers

Consequently, there are lots of aspects to consider whenever you want to migrate to a new VoIP provider without changing your phone number. Usually, the prospective procedure may take a few business days.

The next thing you need to know is whether porting will incur fees for both your designated VoIP service and your current service provider.

4. Software and Hardware

They may necessitate new IP phones or the installation of an adapter to your traditional phones to enable you to use VoIP. Some VoIP providers offer softphones – applications that allow phone calls via a PC or other connected devices.

5. Setting up and Organizing

Many VoIP providers offer installation services, which may be included in the price of the package or maybe an extra price to be paid. Original cable installation instructions are available from some providers if you are a little more technically inclined.

Ensure your firewall and routers are optimized in order to support VoIP.

6. Instruction and Assistance

If you have started the implementation of VoIP solutions in your organization, then it is important that you familiarize yourself with the features that are available within your VoIP system. If perhaps the staff members are new to this system, ensure that you give them a demonstration of how to use it.

Determine if your VoIP provider offers support or educational materials or, better yet, has seminars or workshops.

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap! In this article, we’ve covered how is POTS line different from VoIP. We hope it helps you.

For additional functionality, the investment and increased scalability of VoIP over POTS can be a beneficial move. However, there is always a need to be prepared to make a transition to ensure that it is going to go smoothly as planned.

You might only reap the benefits of VoIP technology when you identify what you need, choose the right VoIP provider, and follow a plan accompanied by a list of backup measures and training.

FAQs

What are the main advantages of VoIP over POTS?

Analyzing the differences between VoIP and POTS, it is possible to conclude that you can cut costs and obtain more services due to such functions as call forwarding, voice mail, and video call and gain more scales.

Can I keep my existing phone number if I switch from POTS to VoIP?

Yes, definitely you can keep your existing phone number if you’re looking to switch from a traditional POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) line to a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service.

Is VoIP as reliable as POTS?

With proper network configurations, consistently reliable Internet connection, and backup power sources available, VoIP is equally dependable as the POTS line. Concerning the availability of pure service, POTS is considered to be more reliable, especially during power outages or internet issues.

How does the cost of POTS compare to VoIP?

The cost of POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) in comparison to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) depends on several factors such as the service provider, the features of the plan, and the usage patterns.