How To Make Phone Calls From The Computer

Gone are the days when your only option for business communication was a deskphone and traditional phone line. Today, you can make calls from your computer with the same high quality audio. All you need is a high-speed internet connection, your computer, and VoIP service. 

Wondering how to call a phone from your computer? Take a look at our guide. We’ll cover everything you need for making business calls from your computer and save money on expensive traditional phone service. 

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How to Call a Phone from Your Computer

We may not have flying cars yet, but when it comes to business telephony solutions, we’re living in the future. And the best part is you don’t need any fancy equipment or expensive installation to make calls from your computer. 

With VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), you can make and receive phone calls using your internet connection rather than a traditional phone line. This allows you to use a computer to place your calls, which can save you money on hardware and equipment. So how does it work?

1. When you speak, VoIP converts your voice into digital data. 
2. This digital data is broken down into small packets and sent over the internet to the recipient’s device.
3. The VoIP system directs the call through various networks so it reaches the right destination, whether another VoIP user or a traditional phone.
4. At the receiving end, the digital data is reassembled and converted back into an audible voice.
5. The recipient hears your voice in real time, just like on a traditional phone call. 

What You’ll Need

Before you make calls from your computer, you’ll need to prepare your setup. Here’s everything you’ll need to call a phone from your computer:

• VoIP provider: Before you can make any calls, you’ll need to find a VoIP provider and sign up for service. There are many VoIP providers on the market, which means you have a lot of options to choose from, but Nextiva is a great option to consider.  
• Computer: Obviously, in order to make calls from your computer, you’ll need a computer. More specifically, your computer will need to have both speakers and a microphone. A headset works even better for the best possible call quality. 
• High-speed internet connection: In order to make a call, you’ll need a high-speed internet connection. Although VoIP service offers high-quality audio, if your internet is too slow, the quality won’t be there. Luckily, most broadband services today can handle your VoIP needs. At the very minimum, you’ll want .5 Mbps for VoIP calls. You can run an internet speed test to check, but if your internet is fast enough for Netflix, it’s fast enough for VoIP. 

Some more tips for making calls from your computer:

• Use an ethernet cable rather than a WiFi connection. This will give a more stable connection for better call quality. 
• Set your router to prioritize VoIP traffic, using Quality of Service (QoS) settings. You may need to upgrade your router to be able to do this. 
• Turn off Bluetooth devices you aren’t using. Whether it’s a wireless keyboard or headset, these can get in the way of a good connection. If you have a ton going at once, consider paring back and turning off the ones you don’t need. 

How To Set Up A VoIP Phone

How to Make a Call from Your Computer, Whether It’s a PC or Mac

Whether you prefer PC or Mac, the good news is that both can make VoIP calls. You can either download the desktop app or use the web version. Here’s how to make calls from your computer: 

1. Choose a VoIP provider. Popular services include Zoom Phone, Nextiva, Skype, or Google Voice. Once you choose the provider, sign up for VoIP service. 
2. Install the VoIP software or app. Most VoIP providers offer a desktop application for Windows and macOS. Download and install the software from the provider’s official website. 
3. Set up your account. Open the VoIP application and log in with your account credentials. Configure settings like microphone, speaker, and internet connection preferences. If your provider requires a payment, ensure your plan is activated. 
4. Connect a headset or microphone. Use a built-in microphone and speakers or connect an external headset for better call quality. Adjust input/output settings in the app to ensure clear audio. 
5. Dial the number. Find the dial pad within the application. It will look similar to the dial pad on a typical hard phone. Enter the phone number, and click the Call or Dial button to start the call. 
6. Use VoIP features, if available. Depending on your provider, you may be able to use call recording, voicemail, call forwarding, video calling, or text messaging, all from your computer. 
7. Once finished, click the End Call button to hang up. 

Benefits of Making Calls through the Computer

Now you know how to make calls from your computer you may be wondering about the advantages of using a computer for your business calls. Here are some of the top benefits of using your computer to make phone calls. 

Cost Savings

One of the biggest benefits of making calls through the computer is the cost savings you’ll see. VoIP calls are often cheaper than traditional landline calls, especially for long-distance and international calls. Plus, many VoIP providers offer free calls between users on the same platform as well as tons of advanced features like call recording and auto attendant. Finally, by using your computer, you won’t have to invest in expensive desk phones and hardware. 

Flexibility

Traditional business phone systems keep you tied down. With VoIP service, you can make and receive phone calls from anywhere with an internet connection and a Mac or PC. You’re not tied to your office, which enables you to work effectively with remote and hybrid teams. 

High-Quality Audio

When it comes to voice and video calls on the computer, you can expect high-quality audio and video. Many providers offer HD voice for crystal clear conversations. And with advanced noise cancellation features, you may find your computer calls have better audio than on a deskphone. 

Advanced Features

Using VoIP service to make calls from your computer comes with more than just cost savings and flexibility. Many VoIP providers offer advanced features not available on traditional phones. Depending on the plan, you may be able to record calls for documentation and review, access voicemail transcriptions, forward calls, set up an auto-attendant, and integrate your VoIP service with CRM tools, emails, and messaging apps. 

VoIP Providers that Let You Make Calls Through Your Computer

When it comes to making calls through your computer, you have a lot of VoIP providers to choose from. Whether you’re looking for inexpensive service or advanced features, here are some of the top VoIP providers to consider.

Nextiva

If you’re looking for a provider that has it all, Nextiva is a great option to consider. Nextiva offers voice, video, team messaging, and social media channels, with tons of advanced features all on one, easy-to-use platform.

Plus, it’s affordabl and feature-rich while having some of the best customer service in the industry. If you need a reliable way to make calls from your computer, Nextiva is a great choice. 

Benefits of Nextiva:

• Unified communications keep you connected via voice, video, and messaging, all in one platform.
• Tons of advanced features, like voice recording, voicemail transcription, IVR, and more. 
• Scalability for businesses of all sizes.
• Uptime of 99.999%. 

Cons of Nextiva: 

• It doesn’t have a free version. 
• Some advanced features only come with the more expensive plans.

 

Nextiva VoIP

Google Voice

If you’re already familiar with Google’s ecosystem of products, Google Voice may be a great option for you. Google Voice offers both free and paid plans for making and receiving calls from your computer. All you need to get a Google Voice number is a Google account, and you can get started. 

Benefits of Google Voice:

• Affordable pricing, with basic features available on the free version. 
• Unlimited SMS in the US. 
• Easy to use. 

Cons of Google Voice:

• Extremely limited third-party app integrations. 
• Confusing analytics.

 

Top Google Voice Alternatives

Zoom Phone

If you’re already familiar with Zoom Meetings, Zoom Phone can be a great way to make calls from your computer. It comes with the user-friendly interface Zoom Meetings is known for, and offers advanced features for an affordable price. 

Benefits of Zoom Phone:

• Affordable plans.
• Set-up is easy.
• Integrations with tons of apps.

Cons of Zoom Phone:

• Have to upgrade to make outbound calls. 
• Need to upgrade to get customer support from a person.

 

Zoom Phone Pricing

Make Calls from Your Computer Conclusion

With VoIP service, it’s easy to make calls from your computer. All you need is a provider, a computer, and an internet connection, and you can get talking. 

Do you need help finding the right provider for your business needs? OneStop Communications has your back. We’ll help you compare prices and plans to find the provider that’s right for your business communication needs. Call us today to learn more!

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