VoIP is an excellent phone service to use in a business. At first transitioning could be challenging, this is why this guide will provide you with all the information you’ll need to become an expert in VoIP. VoIP adapters are devices that act as a connection between your analog telephone service and the digital network that secures your outcoming and incoming calls. VoIP provides its users with high-quality flexible phone service solutions while using your internet. To use VoIP you must purchase the right adapter, you can’t just plug your traditional phone into a router without one. Now that VoIP adapters are easily found, you can keep using your devices without any hassle.
What is a VOIP Adapter?
VoIP is an abbreviation for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is a business phone system that transfers calls over the internet or IP networks. These calls are made over the internet instead of the traditional landline and over a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). A VoIP adapter can sometimes be called an analog phone adapter (APA) or a VoIP modem. This system allows phone calls to be made over landlines from voice signals into digital signals. Then these are compressed and broken into packets to be transferred over the internet.
Types of VOIP Adapters?
There are three different adapter choices, Single FXS VoIP, Dual FXS VoIP, FXS/FXO VoIP, and VoIP Adapters that are built-in.
Single FXS VoIP Adapters
If you need to connect only one landline to your VoIP system, then a VoIP adapter with a single FXS port is the way to go. Although they are limited to just one phone, these adapters are very affordable. All the options listed here support T.38 fax relay standard, which means you can easily send and receive fax documents over the internet in real-time. If you still rely on fax and plan to switch to VoIP, these adapters are perfect for you.
Dual FXS VoIP Adapters
If you need to connect two devices to your IP network, such as two phones or a phone and a fax machine, a dual FXS VoIP adapter is the solution. This adapter is preferable when you cannot limit the number of devices you want to connect to just one.
FXS/FXO VoIP Adapters
The FXS/FXO VoIP adapters come with two ports. The first port is similar to the previously mentioned FXS port, while the second port is a foreign exchange office port (FXO) that connects to a plain old telephone system line (POTS). Companies use FXO ports to maintain access to landlines as a backup option in case their internet/VoIP service fails.
VoIP Adapters with Built-In Route
In case you lack a router for your VoIP system, or if you only possess one Ethernet connection at your workstation, you’ll require a VoIP adapter that has dual Ethernet ports to connect to your network.
Benefits of VoIP Adapters
There are four main benefits to purchasing a VoIP Adapter to name a few.
Affordable Prices
A VoIP phone system is cheaper than the traditional phone line systems we are all used to. It is a cheaper option because the infrastructure is affordable. VoIP uses the internet to make calls, with no need for any hardware. You don’t need expensive hardware; you only need your smartphone/laptop.
Less stress on your staff
A VoIP phone system lessens the workload on your staff as the phone service provider manages your network, so that your staff doesn’t have to. If you have an IT team, this means that they don’t have to worry about the phone systems anymore, which gives them more time to focus on other daily tasks.
Better Flexibility
VoIP makes both incoming and outgoing calls be made and received from anywhere using the same number. If you’re working from home or out of the office, your clients can still contact you on the same phone.
Scalability
With VoIP systems and adapters, you don’t need a vast system. Your company will not need to rewire new hardware or phones or headsets; you can use your materials if they are compatible with VoIP.
How to Choose the Best VoIP Adapter
When deciding what is the best VoIP adapter for your business consider thinking about these few questions.
First, how many devices do you need to connect?
You must put in consideration the number of devices you need to connect to determine how many FXS ports you need your VoIP adapter to have. For example, one device means a single FXS port. Every device added on will mean you’ll need a dual FXS VoIP adapter.
Second, will you keep your PSTN line?
Many businesses keep their PSTN line if their VoIP or internet stops working. If you choose to do so, you will need a VoIP adapter with an FXO port.
Third, will you need a router?
If your VoIP service or workspace doesn’t have an ethernet plug option near them, you will need a VoIP adapter with a built-in router to work.
Fourth, which adapter works for business?
You have to check with your provider to see your needs and advice which adapter is the most compatible for your business.
Best Single FAX VoIP Adapters
A single FAX VoIP adapter can only have one landline connected to it. These options allow you to send and receive fax documents over the internet. If you still use fax transitioning to VoIP, these adapters will enable you to.
Grandstream HT801 Single-Port Analog Telephone Adapter
Is this the best for your home or office? The Grandstream HT801 ATA replaces the HT701 ATA by Grandstream and offers reliable IP technology solutions for your business or home. With its latest features, any user can use it for commercial IP voice service on a large scale. It’s also the best solution for remote employees; it allows them to join the company’s voice system anywhere.
Pros:
- Compact sized with a modern design
- Advanced VoIP functionality, including a 33-way conference, multi-language voice sensor, call forwarding, and a versatile plan
- High-quality encryption with a different security certificate per device
Cons:
- No wireless support, you would need a physical ethernet cable
- It is for voice calls. The range of services is limited by your codecs provider
Grandstream GS-HT802 2
The HT802 offers robust VoIP technology and routing features to home and office environments, allowing users to connect their analog devices to a manageable VoIP network. ATA features to deliver exceptional voice quality while using various applications and surroundings.
Pros:
- Supports 2 SIP profiles through 2 FXS ports and a single 10/100Mbps port
- TLS and SRTP security encryption technology to protect calls and accounts
- Automated provisioning options include TR-069 and XML config files
- Offers 3-way voice conferencing
- Failover SIP server automatically switches to secondary server if main server loses connection
- Supports T.38 Fax for creating Fax-over-IP
- Supports a wide range of caller ID formats
- Use with Grandstream’s UCM series of IP PBXs for Zero Configuration provisioning
Cons:
- It doesn’t have the option to set a hunt group like a HT812.
Obihai OBi300 1 Port ATA
The Obihai OBi300 is a one-port analog telephone adapter that subsidizes analog devices with any SIP trunking provider. This is the perfect choice for small businesses needing a small phone system for their company.
Pros:
- Zero Touch Configuration
- OBiTALK device management portal will help any users save time during setting up and configuration
- USB port for use with USB devices, as well as the OBiWiFi for wireless use
Cons:
- Navigating this device can get a bit tedious.
Best Dual FXS VoIP Adapters
A dual FXS VoIP adapter can connect two devices to your IP network. For example, you can use two phones or a laptop. Here are a few that rank the highest.
Mugast VOIP Gateway
It is a telephony device that is compatible with your VoIP phone system. It is a dual FXS VoIP adapter that connects two systems simultaneously. It is also top-ranked on Amazon.
Pros:
- Internet phone adapter with VOIP Gateway, you can easily achieve long distance calls or free global calls along with broadband network, router, ordinary telephone.
- Has multiple Ports 1 10/100 M RJ11 network interface, 2 standard telephone interfaces, 1 power interface. Phone adapter with 2 ports for Voice-over-IP.
- The VOIP gateway supports SIP V2 protocol.
- It offers multi voice, the Internet phone adapter supports fax and multi-voice compression G.711, G.726, G.729, G.723.1.
- Good quality
- 100% warranty
Cons:
- These devices are never original since Cisco.com, the original manufacturer, had stopped manufacturing them years ago.
- Poor Quality Control
Grandstream GS-HT802 2
The HT802 offers powerful VoIP technology and routing features to home and office environments, allowing users to connect their analog devices to a manageable VoIP network. ATA features delivers outstanding voice quality while using various applications and surroundings.
Pros:
- Supports 2 SIP profiles through 2 FXS ports and a single 10/100Mbps port
- TLS and SRTP security encryption technology to protect calls and accounts
- Automated provisioning options include TR-069 and XML config files
- Offers 3-way voice conferencing
- Failover SIP server automatically switches to secondary server if main server loses connection
- Supports T.38 Fax for creating Fax-over-IP
- Supports a wide range of caller ID formats
- Use with Grandstream’s UCM series of IP PBXs for Zero Configuration provisioning
Cons:
- It doesn’t have the option to set a hunt group like a HT812.
Cisco SPA112
Cisco SPA112 offers an easy investment at a cost-efficient price. It’s straightforward to install and use. Users can extend their investment in analog telephones and devices and control their transfer to IP voice with Cisco.
Pros:
- Outstanding voice quality using advanced voice quality-of-service capabilities and the voice Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) stack
- Dependable faxing with synchronized voice and data use
- Compact-sized, and can be installed anywhere
Cons:
- Only has an EU plug adapter in the sealed Cisco box, and does not have the US adapter.
Best FXS/FXO VoIP Adapters
FX/FXO VoIP adapters have two ports; they allow users to connect their analog phones to a VoIP system. An FXS port connects your analog phones and fax machines to your VoIP system. They are used for businesses who still want to have the advantage of using their landlines as a second option due to the internet going down.
Ooma Telo VoIP Free Home Phone Service.
Ooma Telo is a smart home phone service that offers its users with an affordable price and connects to your high-speed internet.
Pros:
- Free unlimited high-quality calling nationwide, you will only need to pay taxes and fees monthly
- #1 rated home phone service for customers feedback
- Low-cost international calling rates
- Voicemail, caller-ID, call-waiting, 911 and 911 text alerts. Receive a text or email when 911 is called from your Ooma phone number
- Gives you the option to block robocallers
- Quick and easy installation process
Cons:
- You pay only monthly applicable taxes and fees.
- Only works in the U.S.
Grandstream Hybrid ATA with FXS and FXO Ports (HT813)
HT813 is an analog telephone adapter offering one analog FXS port and one PSTN line FXO port. Users can switch their analog technology to VoIP using this adapter. Advanced features allow service providers to provide high-quality IP service to users.
Pros:
- For added flexibility, the FXS port extends VoIP service to one analog device.
- HD voice quality
- Users can convert their analog technology to VoIP
- High-end security protection and multiple auto provisioning options
- Supports 2 SIP profiles through 1 FXS port and 1 FXO port
- Dual 100Mbps LAN and WAN ports
Cons:
- It holds onto the pots line after you hang up. If you don’t have long phone calls you can set a maximum call length to ensure it doesn’t get hung up.
- Many stated that the Instructions were not clear and configuration was a challenge
Polycom OBI 302 Voice Adapter USB 2 FXS ATA
Polycom OBi302 enhances your business’s communication at your home and office. It offers flexibility in fax, voice, and other devices. It comes with one FXS port and one FXO port that allows you to plug a phone or fax machine into a port. With OBi312, you can save not only money but time.
Pros:
- Every user gets a USB port to connect to WIfi or Bluetooth using this adapter.
- Instinctive, web-based user interface so you can manage the adapter when need be
Cons:
- It holds onto the pots line after you hang up. If you don’t have long phone calls you can set a maximum call length to ensure it doesn’t get hung up.
- Many stated that the Instructions were not clear and configuration was a challenge
Best VoIP Adapters with Built-In Router
You will need a VoIP adapter with dual Ethernet ports to connect to your network.
Ooma Telo VoIP Free Home Phone Service
The Ooma Telo VoIP adapter is a profound and flexible adapter that can connect to your WiFi and any other device in your home. This one is great for homeowners that work from home.
Pros:
- Easily connects to your WiFi
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Has telephony features like call forwarding, call hold, call waiting, caller ID, and voicemail options
- Free unlimited nationwide calling, pay only taxes and fees monthly
- An affordable purchase
- Low-cost international rates and international calling packages
- The ability to choose your own number or get a new one
Cons:
- Potentially can drop your calls suddenly
- Ooma forces updates to your Telo, which could be a pro and a con considering the users preference
- You potentially could need to purchase other materials to use this device, so this option could be costly in the long run
Cisco SPA122
Cisco SPA122 has a compact design and works well with international voice and data expectations. You can use it in any business environment to connect your employees and provide customers with the best connection.
Pros:
- Effortless to install
- Supports faxing with voice and data use
- Has excellent features like caller ID, call waiting, voicemail, call forwarding, and customizable ringtones
- High-quality and clear voice calls
Cons:
- Difficult to use for some users, must be an expert
Conclusion
VoIP adapters offer a modern technology that ensures high-quality communications for your company. If you’re planning to buy any of the few options we listed, consider the following questions: How many lines do you need to connect? Will you require an additional router or will your current one suffice? What’s your budget? What kind of support does your business need for the VoIP system?
