VoIP Phone Service: How It Works

What Is a Softphone?

A softphone is a software application that turns your computer, tablet or smartphone into a full business phone. It uses VoIP technology to make and receive calls over the internet, using your business phone number — no physical desk phone required.

How Softphones Work

A softphone connects to your hosted VoIP system over the internet. It uses your device's microphone and speakers (or a connected headset) for audio. The interface looks like a phone dial pad on screen, with buttons for hold, transfer, mute and conference.

Benefits of Softphones

• Zero hardware cost — use the computer or mobile you already have.
• Work from anywhere — make and receive calls from home, a coffee shop or a client site using your office number.
• Full feature access — call transfer, recording, conference calling, presence and voicemail all work through the softphone.
• Easy to deploy — download the app, log in and start making calls. No engineer visit needed.

Softphone vs Desk Phone

Popular Softphone Platforms

Most hosted VoIP providers include a softphone app with their service. These typically run on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android, giving your team flexibility to use whichever device suits them.