FEATURE VS. FEATURE

Cloud Telephony vs. VoIP: Differences, Pros and Cons

Q: Is a cloud phone based on VoIP?

Yes, cloud phone systems are based on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, which enables voice communication over the internet. Cloud phone systems utilize VoIP to provide flexible and scalable phone services through the internet, making them a subset of VoIP technology.

Are you struggling with the rising costs and inflexibility of traditional phone systems? Explore differences between Cloud-based telephony software and VoIP. Choose the right communication tool for your business.

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Cloud
Telephony

VoIP

Main differences between
Cloud Telephony & VoIP

Parameter

Cloud Telephony

VoIP

Hardware

No physical hardware – works on mobile phones, laptops, and tablets.

It may sometimes need a physical hardware installation
at the office premises.

Scalability

Easily scalable and adjustable (you can add new users within minutes).

Scalability may be limited in some cases – if you use landline phones, you have to install additional hardware.

Maintenance

Provider does all the maintenance.

In case of on-site hardware issues, you have to take care of the maintenance.

Remote work

Since you are using your own hardware devices, you can work from anywhere.

Remote work may be impossible if you are relying on traditional landlines installed in an office.

Data storage

All of your data is safely stored in the cloud.

If you store your data in internal data centers, it may get lost.

Costs

Cloud telephony saves you money on installing landline phones and on their maintenance.

VoIP can be used with landlines, which comes with hardware and maintenance costs. It can also be used entirely wirelessly, though, where you only pay for a subscription plan.

Best fit

Scaling Startups, SMBs, Enterprises, fully remote businesses, companies with fluctuating call volumes and those in need for advanced features.

Worst fit

Industries with strict regulations, businesses with weak internet connectivity, companies with incorporated legacy systems.

Companies requiring a high level of security, large-scale call centers, privacy-sensitive services, and businesses with limited budgets for development and maintenance.

Open whole table

What is Cloud Telephony
& how does it work?

Cloud telephony is a unified communication technology that routes phone calls through the internet replacing phone lines with the cloud. Phone services are hosted on remote servers and accessed via the internet.

This calling solution is flexible, scalable, and cost-effective. You can easily adapt your phone systems to changes because there’s no need for physical infrastructure. You’ll also get advanced features like Virtual Numbers, Automated Call Routing, and Call Analytics.

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What is VoIP
& how does it work?

VoIP is an acronym for a Voice over Internet Protocol. It converts voice signals into digital data packets. Those are then transmitted over the internet, with no need for traditional phone lines. Once the data packets arrive at a recipient’s end, they transform back to voice signals.

VoIP software is cost-effective, scalable, and offers a wide range of features. If you are seeking an efficient and affordable communication solution, it’s a great choice.

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Check VoIP pricing

FACTS ABOUT CLOUDTALK

Expand business,
reach new levels

Versatile

70+

Premium features

Reliable

99.99%

Uptime SLA

Available

24/7

Customer support

Global

180+

Countries available

Secure

24/7

Security and data monitoring

Pros & Cons of Cloud-based Phone Systems

Cloud Telephony

Call Instantly With Easy Setup

Set up your cloud-based phone system quickly and eliminate the need for lengthy on-site hardware installation. You can start calling within minutes.

Build better connections with advanced features

Get a wide range of advanced features to build better customer relationships. Make informed decisions with Call Analytics or automate sales campaigns with Auto Dialers.

Sync With Tools You Love

Use CRM integrations to sync your cloud-based calling system with tools you love. Work more efficiently and build an unified data hub.

Save On Hardware And Maintenance

Lower your upfront costs and reduce maintenance expenses. Cloud-based systems are often more affordable than traditional phone systems.

Call Quality Depends on Connectivity

Relying on an internet connection makes you vulnerable to network outages. It slows down your processes and can negatively impact the quality of your service.

There’s a Risk Of Data Breach

Storing data in the cloud raises concerns about data security and privacy. While cloud providers implement robust security measures, there’s always a risk of data breaches.

Subscription May Be Pricey

Over time, the recurring subscription costs of cloud-based phone systems can accumulate and surpass the upfront investment in a traditional on-premises system.

VoIP

Save Money on International Calling

Avoid expensive long-distance calling charges with features like International numbers and save both yours and customers’ money.

Embrace Freedom With a Remote-friendly Solution

Break down geographical barriers. VoIP lets you receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection. This possibility is invaluable for remote teams.

Adjust Your Calling Software As You Grow

VoIP adapts to your needs, no matter the size of your business. The highly scalable and adjustable software helps you grow seamlessly.

Optimize Workflows With Diverse Features

Get a diverse range of features for any business size and make team collaboration easier. Optimize workflow and maintain meaningful interactions with clients and partners.

You Need a Reliable Internet Connection

Just like cloud-based software, VoIP relies on a stable internet connection. You may experience delays, packet loss, and reduced call quality if your internet connection falters.

Location tracking May Be Limited

VoIP technology may fail to provide accurate location information to emergency services when a user dials 911. It can happen that VoIP doesn’t transmit accurate geographic data.

You Can Face Security Threats

Depending on a provider, VoIP can be vulnerable to security threats and cyberattacks like hacking, eavesdropping, and other malicious activities.

OUR FEATURES

Discover 4 most popular
VoIP features

Call Flow Designer

Design your inbound calling journey to fit the unique needs of your business and customers’ expectations.

Analytics

Get a 360° view of everything happening within your team and unprecedented control over your performance.

Call Transcriptions

Transcribe calls instantly with an AI technology and save your team time, resources and administrative work.

International numbers

Expand your business to new markets and reach customers all around the world with over 160 international numbers.

"With CloudTalk's Analytics I now get to see every step of the way. We can find discrepancies between our agents and gain a much better understanding of our teams' setup."

Nelly Donnelly Service Delivery Manager

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"CloudTalk improved our team's cost and efficiency. The script feature allows us to lead the calls in a much more systematic way, as well as all the action buttons to trigger actions directly into our backend."

Yohann Bensadoun Global Supply Growth

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"Our call volume tripled in only 2 years, from around 10,000 calls to 30,000 per quarter and with CloudTalk, we can now handle all of this communication easily. It was an excellent choice."

Frederico Lopes Head of Customer Service

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"We have seen a significant increase in our outbound call volume since we started using CloudTalk and we can now reach out to more prospects and customers than ever before."

Elay Sasson Call Center Manager

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FAQs

Is a cloud phone based on VoIP?

Yes, cloud phone systems are based on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, which enables voice communication over the internet. Cloud phone systems utilize VoIP to provide flexible and scalable phone services through the internet, making them a subset of VoIP technology.

What are the disadvantages of Cloud Telephony?

Since call quality depends on connectivity, Cloud Telephony is vulnerable to network outages. There’s also a slight risk of data breach. Additionally, costs of cloud-based phone systems can accumulate and eventually surpass the upfront investment in a traditional on-premises system.

What is the difference between Cloud Voice and Cloud Phone?

Cloud Voice generally refers to any voice-related service hosted in the cloud, including VoIP and other telephony solutions. On the other hand, Cloud Phone refers specifically to a phone system hosted in the cloud, utilizing VoIP technology to deliver phone services over the internet.

Do I need a computer to make VoIP phone calls?

While a computer is not obligatory for making VoIP calls, a broadband internet connection is essential. Therefore, besides a computer or laptop, you can make calls via mobile phone, tablet, and other devices connected to the internet.

Are VoIP calls secure?

Security breaches occur rarely. As a VoIP subscriber, you can choose to encrypt your calls, ensuring complete security. If data protection is essential for your business, encryption is the ideal choice.

Can I use my existing handsets with a Cloud Phone System?

Certainly, you can utilize your existing legacy phone with a Cloud-based System. Yet, doing so means forfeiting numerous advanced features that come with cloud-enabled devices. If transitioning to a cloud-based phone system, it’s highly beneficial to opt for devices where you can fully leverage the advantages.