The Only Home VoIP Guide That You Won’t Fall Asleep Reading!

There are people who love new technological innovations and crave the change that comes with them. There are others who tolerate tech because they have no choice but to embrace it, albeit through gritted teeth. Whichever camp you sit in, here at Phonely, we’ve put together a VoIP guide to explain what VoIP is and why you need to know about it. And we promise not to bore you in the process by making it quick and painless using the trusty Q&A format!

So, what’s VoIP?

VoIP (said as a whole word rather than V.o.I.P) stands for voice over internet protocol. In everyday-speak it means your home telephone but through the internet and router rather than a phone socket.

Why should I care about VoIP?

By the end of January 2027, you will no longer be able to use a phone that is plugged into a phone socket on your wall. The dial tone will be switched off and you’ll have to plug your phone into your router. If your handset isn’t set up for VoIP, you may need to purchase a new one from your provider.

What if I don’t want VoIP?

Unfortunately, you won’t have a choice if you want to maintain your home phone. BT Openreach is retiring the old PSTN (landline) network due to the costly maintenance. This will pave the way for a cheaper and more efficient VoIP system.

Why should I switch to VoIP now?

You don’t have to actively switch unless you change your provider, then VoIP is all that you will be offered. If your current provider contacts you to move you over to VoIP you may not have to if you are considered vulnerable and they cannot guarantee you access to emergency services should your power fail. However, here at Phonely, we recommend that you switch now for several reasons. We’ve covered the 5 big benefits of home VoIP in a different blog, but the most important ones are:

1. It’s cheaper than your current landline so you will pay out less each month.
2. You’ll be able to utilise Phonely’s CallGuard which is not only designed to protect people from fraud & scams but give even the most vulnerable people in society the confidence to answer their phone without fear.

We hope you’d agree that reading our VoIP guide was worth it just to learn those 2 things!

Does VoIP allow me to keep the same number?

At Phonely, 100% yes! Moving your phone number from one provider to another is called porting. We can help organise that for you so you don’t have the worry. Once we have your number you will have access to all the benefits of CallGuard.

Do I need a fast internet connection?

For VoIP, you do need a reliable internet connection, but it doesn’t have to be super speedy. If you don’t have a broadband provider yet, you should be able to find one that offers a nice steady speed for a minimal monthly payment. We highly recommend you shop around and compare so you don’t get sold that all-singing and dancing package that you’re unlikely to actually need!

That’s probably it, for now. 551 words seem like more than enough words for a VoIP guide!

If you want to know more about VoIP and the 2027 switch-off, have a glance at our dedicated blog page and be confidently prepared.

Pros And Cons Of VoIP

If you’re still using a traditional landline, switching to VoIP might feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. But with the 2027 switch-off approaching, it’s worth knowing what’s good (and not so good) about going digital. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Pros

• Cheaper calls: VoIP usually costs less than a traditional landline, especially for long-distance or international calls.
• Keep your number: You can transfer your current number, so family and friends can still reach you.
• Clearer sound: With a stable internet connection, calls are crisp and interference-free.
• Extra features: Enjoy benefits like caller ID, voicemail-to-email, and Phonely’s CallGuard – protecting you from scam and nuisance calls.
• Future-proof: VoIP is the technology replacing landlines, so switching early means less hassle later.

Cons

• Needs internet: No broadband means no VoIP, so you’ll need a reliable connection.
• Power cuts: If the power goes out, your VoIP phone won’t work unless you have a backup or mobile.
• Setup change: You’ll plug your phone into your router instead of the wall socket – a quick adjustment but new for some.

The Bottom Line

VoIP might sound like a big change, but it’s really just the next step for home phones. It’s cheaper, clearer, and comes with handy features that keep you safe from scams – especially with Phonely’s CallGuard by your side. The switch is coming whether we like it or not, so why not get ahead and make it on your terms?

If you’re ready to learn more or see how easy the move can be, visit our VoIP guide page or checkout our plans by clicking the button below.