With the rise of the virtual telephone system, more and more companies are turning to the power of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to keep their employees connected. Porting an existing number to VoIP is a great way to not only stay connected with your customers, but also save money on landline costs. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of how to port a number to VoIP.

Research and Choose a VoIP Provider

The first step in porting a landline phone number to VoIP is to research and choose a VoIP provider. You’ll want to look at features, pricing, customer service, and other factors to ensure you’re getting the best service. Start by comparing different VoIP providers to see which one fits your needs. You’ll want to consider the quality of service, how quickly they can port your number, and any extra features you may need.

When researching a VoIP provider, it’s important to read customer reviews. Make sure to look at both positive and negative reviews to get an accurate picture of the provider. Pay attention to any issues that users have had with their service, and make sure to ask questions if you have any concerns. You should also look at the customer support the provider offers. If they don’t have a good customer service system in place, it could be a sign that they may not be the right provider for you.

Finally, make sure you understand the VoIP provider’s porting process. Most providers have simple instructions for porting your phone number, but you should still double check to make sure you understand what is required. You should also inquire about any fees or additional charges associated with porting your number. Some providers may charge a one-time porting fee, while others may have a monthly fee for their service. Make sure you understand all of the associated costs before committing to a provider.

Setup Your VoIP Service

After you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to set up your VoIP service. Depending on the type of VoIP service you choose, you may need to purchase additional hardware or software to get started. Make sure that the provider offers installation and setup services for the hardware and software you need for the service. It’s also important to research the company’s compatibility with the type of phone system you are using.

Submit Your Porting Request

Once you’ve chosen a provider and set up your VoIP service, you will need to submit a porting request. This request should include the current phone number, the provider you are porting from and to, and any additional information the provider may require. The provider will then review the request and submit it to the appropriate carrier for approval.

Verify Your Ownership of the Number

The next step in porting your number is to verify your ownership of the number. The provider will need to verify that you are the owner of the number, by providing documents such as a copy of your driver’s license, utility bill, or other forms of identification. Once your ownership has been verified, the provider will submit the porting request to the original carrier.

Check the Status of Your Port

Checking the status of your port is an important step in the process of porting a landline to VoIP. Once the porting request has been submitted to the original carrier, the provider can provide updates on the progress of the port. It’s important to contact the provider regularly to check on the status of the port, as it can take up to 10 days for the process to be completed.

The provider can give you an estimated time frame for completion, so you know when to expect the port to be complete. If there are any delays, or if the port fails for any reason, the provider can help you troubleshoot the issue and get the port completed. Checking the status of your port regularly will ensure that it is completed in a timely manner.

Complete Your Setup and Test Your Number

When your port has been completed, you can complete your setup and test your number. Make sure that your VoIP phone is correctly configured and that you are able to make and receive calls. You may also need to update your contact information, such as your website, business cards, and other marketing materials, to reflect your new number.

Once your setup is complete and your number is working correctly, you can start using your VoIP service and enjoy the many benefits that it offers. With a VoIP number, you can stay connected with your customers, save money on landline costs, and enjoy more features than traditional landline phones.