Business VoIP Phones

By Ryan Ayers
Updated: May 23, 2011

Business VoIP phones have revolutionized the way that businesses communicate and allow businesses to integrate the voice, data, and messaging components of their communications solutions. Although the need for physical on-premise hardware is minimal, a business should be sure to purchase handsets that are manufactured with the future of business VoIP phone systems in mind.

Not an Ordinary Telephone

Business VoIP phones are a more evolved version of traditional office telephone handsets. This equipment is designed to be a full-service unit that allows for Unified Communication (UC) solutions.

A business VoIP phone is an intuitive device that contains features such as:

• UC menus/applications
• Simple integration with other devices
• Intuitive displays
• HD audio
• Voice recognition dialing

Top Manufacturers of Business VoIP Phones

Among the top manufacturers of VoIP handsets are many names that have been in the communications and IT field for many years. Many of these companies also supply the network equipment necessary to build and deploy an effective VoIP network. When selecting the hardware for your IP network, it is important to be sure that it will integrate seamlessly with whatever systems that your business currently has in place.

Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco is an industry leader in network and routing equipment, and has been in the communications field for quite some time. Cisco has long been an innovator and has a focus on changing the way that we use our networks to communicate and share information.

Cisco’s business VoIP phones contain advanced technology that enables businesses to have a seamless experience. Their newest VoIP phones include features such as:

• Bluetooth and USB integration
• Touchscreen menus
• High Resolution video/audio support

Polycom

Polycom is another familiar name in the communications industry. Providing hardware and support for a wide variety of UC equipment, Polycom is the global leader in telepresence and voice/video solutions.

Polycom offers business VoIP phones for every level of business, from small companies to extremely large organizations. Choosing Polycom phones allows their clients:

• Access to proprietary technologies such as Soundpoint/Soundstation
• Compatibility with most major SIP and IP providers
• Exclusive partnership arrangements with providers that ensure high-level support

Aastra

Headquartered in Canada, Aastra has been a leader in communications for some time, acquiring Ericsson Enterprise and other companies in an effort to expand its reach and provide better products and support to its customers. Aastra is also a major manufacturer of gateways, servers, and other communications equipment.

Aastra’s business VoIP phones have a focus on improving existing function and increasing the capabilities of VoIP communications. Improved functionality in Aastra phones includes:

• Increased mobility options
• Increased programmability
• Aastra Hi-Q audio technology

Business VoIP phones are an integral part of any business’ UC strategy and should be selected based on the features and improvements that will best fit into the existing communications infrastructure. The right equipment, when coupled with your service provider and/or your existing VoIP network, can enable your business to function more productively and to expand in a much more fluid manner.