How to Make & Receive Phone Calls From Your Computer: Different Ways

Do you spend a lot of money on various calling plans and so-called “free calling apps” but still receive poor-quality phone call service?

If so, have you considered making phone calls from your computer?

Making and receiving phone calls from the computer has eliminated the need to depend on the presence of cellular networks in remote locations and having to afford out-of-budget calling plans. Additionally, it has made the calling experience more pleasant, easy, and convenient for people all across the world. 

Now with this, let us examine various methods that enable users to make and receive phone call from computer. Further, let us look at how one can extensively benefit by adopting this approach.

How does making a phone call from a computer work?

To make a phone call from a computer, you must have the following components at your disposal:

• A reliable Internet connection with sufficient bandwidth
• A computer with microphone and speakers (Optional: Webcam for video calls)
• A VoIP software or some kind of business phone app
• A user account on these online calling platforms and within the budget calling plan
• A web browser or a desktop app
• Easy integration and compatibility with the existing communication systems
• Security protocols, firewalls, and antivirus configurations

Some most used methods to make phone calls from a computer are as follows:

1. Directly dialing a number from the desktop app

Android and iPhone smartphones allow users to link their phones to their computers, enabling them to make calls over the cellular network using the computer itself.

Here is how you get started:

• Install the “Your Phone Companion”, a Windows 10/11 phone app, on your Android phone.
• Connect your phone to your Windows computer.
• Then, make calls from your PC using your phone’s cellular network.

2. Using VoIP services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), also known as IP telephony or Internet calling, is the technology that enables users to make and receive phone calls using an Internet connection instead of traditional telephone lines (PSTN). VoIP transmits voice signals over the medium by first converting them into data packets.

VoIP not only enables wifi calling but also VoIP texting, i.e., sending SMS-like text messages over the Internet. A popular VoIP software used by many people is Skype.

Here is a short guide on how to dial numbers using Skype from a computer:

• First of all, download Skype from Skype’s official website and install it on your computer.
• Sign in with your Microsoft account or create a free Skype account.
• There are 2 ways to make the call:

• You can either make a free Skype-to-Skype call,
• Or you can use a Skype credit to call landline and mobile numbers.

• Open Skype and click on the Call Phones icon.
• Dial the number you wish to call on the dialpad.
• Note: You can get a Skype Number (available in multiple countries) so people can call you on Skype from their phones.  

3. Using Google Voice

If you are not using any kind of VoIP service or any other kind of communication app, consider using Google Voice on your web browser. Google Voice allows you to make and receive calls directly from your computer’s web browser. It is most useful if you want a free US-based number.

Here is a short guide to how to use Google Voice:

• Go to the Google Voice website and sign in with your Google account.
• Then, select a free US phone number from the available options.
• Enter the number to dial directly from your browser.
• To receive such kinds of calls made by Google Voice, you can route calls to your Google Voice number to ring your computer.

4. Using communication apps

In addition to social media apps, there are several other individual apps, with their own special features and services, that are used to make phone calls from a computer. Some such notable communication apps in the present market are as follows:

• Dialaxy
• RingCentral
• Zoom
• Slack
• CallHippo
• Skype
• Facetime

5. Using social media apps

Individuals, small business owners, and marketing teams of large corporations use social media apps such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, TikTok, Viber, etc., to make audio and video calls with their potential buyers and clients. Users can make the call directly from the app or the web interface.

Here is a short guide on how to call a person using Facebook Messenger:

• Open Messenger on Facebook or directly go to the Messenger website.
• Open the conversation with the person you want to call.
• Click on the phone icon for a voice call or the video camera icon for a video call.

Here is a short guide on how to call a person using WhatsApp:

• Open the WhatsApp website on your browser.
• Open the chat with the person you want to call.
• Click on the phone icon for a voice call or the video camera icon for a video call.

How to make a phone call from computer with Dialaxy?

Dialaxy enables its customers to make calls with their mobile phones as well as their computers. To make a phone call from a computer using Dialaxy, all you need to do is follow the following steps:

Step 1: Go to the Dialaxy website and sign up to create a Dialaxy account.

Step 2: Go to the “Number” section on your Dialaxy dashboard and select a virtual phone number (local, mobile, or toll-free) from a list of options.

Step 3: There are 3 ways to make the call:

• Dial the number directly from the dialpad.
• Search the contact using the Search Bar and hit the call button.
• Open the chat conversation with the desired contact and hit the phone icon to make the call.

Note: Make sure you dial the number in the correct format. 

Step 4 : Select and purchase your phone plan. The basic plan is 20$ per month and selecting pro would cost you 60$ per month.

Step 5: Finally, test out your newly acquired phone number by making a call to your customers and associates.

What are the benefits of making calls from a computer?

It is highly beneficial for individuals and businesses alike to make phone calls using a computer rather than other methods. Here are some key advantages:

1. Cost-Effective

Making calls from a computer is highly cost-effective compared to other methods such as using SIM cards, international calling plans, and traditional phones. To make calls from a computer all one requires is a computer and a strong and reliable internet connection with high bandwidth for high call quality. 

There is no need for the setup and constant maintenance of traditional phone lines, phones, and other hardware infrastructure. 

2. Advanced Call Features

Traditional phones only allow features such as call reject, call hold, and call mute. However, calling apps and software for computers allow more modern features such as call forwarding, call recording, call analytics, voicemail transcription, cross-device notifications, etc.

3. High Security

Phone calls made by traditional and mobile phones can easily be tapped into by intruders. However, phone calls made using computers are more secure due to the presence of multiple strict encryption, authorization, and authentication protocols. 

This ensures that communications remain private and protected from hackers and unauthorized professionals.

4. Easy Integration

Many calling software are easily integrated with existing business communication systems such as CRM systems, email management systems, data management systems, etc. 

Efficient integration helps users to perform multiple tasks such as automating data entry, tracking customer interactions, and managing communication projects, thus streamlining workflows and increasing productivity.

5. Flexible and Convenient

Calls can be made from any location as long as there is an Internet connection present. You can make calls from either computers or mobile phones. This type of uninterrupted, seamless communication enhances productivity and efficiency.

Further, users can handle multiple calls at the same time and switch between calls effortlessly. The systems can incorporate any growing number of users.

How to get the right platform to make calls from a computer?

There are several factors that a caller must consider while choosing the most suitable method to make business calls. They are as follows:

1. Cost and Pricing

There are many so-called “free phone apps” that charge hidden fees, and extra unnecessary fees for international calls, toll-free numbers, extra users, premium features, and add-on features. 

When looking for a suitable calling platform, you must research thoroughly, compare your pricing options, and ensure that the model you select is according to your business usage, needs, and goals.

Also, try out free demo versions and trials before making a long-term commitment.

2. Ease of Use

The chosen platform must be easy to use and navigate. An intuitive and user-friendly interface enables users to access features effortlessly and make calls more quickly and efficiently. 

The platform must also be simple to set up, install, and maintain. This saves time dealing with complex and unnecessary configurations.

3. Features and Functionality

Make sure that the selected application consists of all the new modern features such as call recording, call forwarding, voicemail transcriptions, etc., and has an in-built AI chatbot and messaging app. The platform must also ensure high-quality audio and video calls across different mediums for a smooth communication experience. 

4. Compatibility and Integrability

If you are still using traditional phone systems, you might want to first update your business communications to a cloud-based system. Any new application that you incorporate must be compatible with your existing enterprise communication systems to save significant time and cost. 

Users must be able to easily switch between platforms, iOS and Android, and multiple communication channels. Greater flexibility in communication functionalities leads to enhanced customer service.

5. Security and Reliability

Ensure that the service provider is reputable and that their services have been credited and trusted by many of their customers. The service providers and their services must comply with all the important regulations and laws such as HIPAA and GDPR.

Also, ensure that the application provides end-to-end encryption for phone calls, with minimum downtime, high audio quality, and continuous communication even when offline.

Final Words

In this age of rapid digitization, every individual and business must embrace modern technology and not limit themselves to only using traditional ones. Using computers and cloud-based calling solutions has proven to be much more cost-effective, efficient, convenient, and flexible when it comes to making phone calls since it has a wider reach, fewer infrastructural limitations, and high cost-effectiveness.

So, if you are looking to update your business communication systems, do not get left behind by your competitors. Immediately update and incorporate modern technologies and applications into your enterprise communication systems to streamline communication, save time, and enhance productivity.

FAQs

1. What is Wi-fi calling?

Wi-Fi calling can be defined as the technology that allows users to make and receive phone calls via a WiFi network rather than a cellular network. It is highly beneficial when you need to make calls from areas with no cellular network.

It is different than VoIP calling in the following aspects:

• WiFi calling doesn’t require any special app. It can easily be integrated with your phone’s default dialer and works with your regular phone number.
• Whereas, in VoIP calling, a specific VoIP app such as Skype, or WhatsApp is required. Also, a different virtual number must be purchased.

2. Do you need a phone call app for PC?

If you want to make a phone call from your computer, you do need a phone call app. You can either use the Windows Your Phone App present on your PC or you can download apps such as Skype, WhatsApp, etc.

3. Can I make international calls from my computer?

Yes, you can make international calls from your computer without using your mobile phone. You can dial the contact number using desktop apps or web-based online platforms. 

Make sure the number is in the following format:

Dialer’s country code – Recipient’s country code – Area code – Phone number

For Example: To call Brazil from the US, dial 011-55-21-65895-1236.

4. Can I call a toll-free number using my computer?

Yes, you can call a toll-free number from your PC using VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, or softphone apps such as Zoiper, Bria, etc. Some service providers charge you for dialing toll-free numbers whereas some don’t. So, please make sure you have sufficient credit or a calling plan before making the call.

The phone number must be in the following format:

011-country_code-0800-toll_free_number, 

where 011 is the US exit code.

5. Is there a way to make free phone calls from my computer?

Yes, there are several ways to make free phone calls from your computer. A user can use online calling apps such as Google Voice, Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom, etc., to make free phone calls.

6. How can I connect my phone to my PC?

You can connect your phone to your PC using a USB cable, Bluetooth, WiFi/ Cloud Syncing, Apps, or Your Phone App on Windows.