In this article, we provide insight into the decision-making process of choosing whether to bring your own equipment, rent or purchase when changing to VoIP telephony with GreenLink.
There are many aspects to consider when it comes to acquiring equipment for your VOIP service. For example, if your current equipment is still covered by the manufacturer for support, if the manufacturer will continue to provide software updates and for how long, the warranty status of your current equipment, and the compatibility with the VoIP network if you are migrating from analog for the first time.
Bringing your own equipment is an option:
- If the equipment you have is new, still under warranty, and compatible with your VoIP provider's network, the logical option is to bring your own equipment when migrating to VoIP.
- If your current equipment is no longer under warranty, but is compatible with your VoIP provider's network, you will need to check if the manufacturer still supports your phone for repairs and updates and for how long they will support it. If supported for at least another 3 to 5 years, you can choose to bring your equipment to your new VoIP provider.
Get New Equipment if:
- If your equipment is either no longer supported by the manufacturer or is not compatible with your new VoIP service, the best option is to buy or rent new equipment from your VoIP provider.
Purchase vs Renting:
- If you were previously not using a VoIP network, it is likely that your current equipment is not compatible with VoIP, in which case you will definitely require new equipment. In this case, you will need to decide between renting or buying new equipment.
- The decision to rent or to buy will depend on how much of an initial investment your company is willing to make as well.
You can find more details on the pros and cons of renting versus buying your equipment here: Should I Buy or Rent Phones for My VoIP Service?
No Physical Equipment
Some clients might choose not to have physical equipment at all if their VoIP service provider offers that as an option.
GreenLink's Mobility Suite, for example, works with the VoIP network by installing our softphone app on either a PC, mobile phone, or both at the same time. Customers will have the same voice quality, an extension number, and access to voicemail and conferencing without needing a physical phone.
Independently of what you choose to do about your equipment needs, GreenLink's Partners and our Service Team are available to answer your questions and offer you options in the process of choosing a path to satisfy your VoIP equipment needs. If you need further assistance, please contact us at help@greenlinknetworks.com.