Desktop Softphone App: How to Call a Phone from a Computer?
What is a Desktop Softphone?
A softphone is a software application that businesses use to make phone calls over the internet via their computer or smartphone. PC softphones refer to the computers that are configured for calling.
The Softphone has all the features of a desk phone, plus advanced features such as call transfer and call whispering. Besides allowing you to make calls from your computer, they also allow you to travel with your work phone.
You can use your business phone on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone to take advantage of its robust features and seamless connection. It simplifies mobile work because you can continue working on your portable device.
How softphone allows call from a computer?
A softphone system uses VoIP technology. To be able to use them, you will need:
- Wireless or high-speed broadband Internet connection
- Router or modem
- A device that has access to the Internet
- Speaker and microphone
Just download your VoIP provider’s softphone app onto the devices of your choice, and sign in with your account credentials. Credentials for the account are provided by the business. You will need to follow the basic instructions for setup. When the installation and configuration have been completed, you can make the call from computer using Softphone.
The top 15 features of softphones
Softphones empower businesses with all the technical tools required for supporting modern workplaces. Here is a quick sneak peek into the key features that are usually offered by a softphone application.
- WebRTC
- Auto-provisioning
- Call transfer
- Hold
- Live chat
- Drag & drop files
- Video conferencing
- Desktop softphone & mobile sync
- Push notifications
- Call performance analytics & reporting
- Real-time call log
- Directory dialing
- Quick search
- Pop-up incoming call push notification
- Real-time status of user’s presence
- Caller ID
Additionally, softphones offer enhanced security features such as end-to-end encryption, user authentication, etc. to guarantee secure business communication.
It is important to keep in mind that softphones can only connect to other devices if both the caller and the receiver have a minimum of one codec in common and both have the same Voice over IP protocols.
7 Organizational benefits of using desktop softphones
Desktop softphones not only enhance the professional image of a company but also serve as a useful tool for employees. In addition to offering flexibility and convenience to your employees, it also offers a plethora of benefits to your employees.
- Simplifies making calls from a computer
With a computer, you can make and receive business calls with just a click. Using a computer to make a phone call eliminates the hassle of managing multiple devices for business communication. The intuitive interface of computer softphones makes managing calls easier for employees.
- Multiple features support control of calls
Softphones provide advanced features such as call switching, call transfer, voicemail, and more to enhance your business communication. Employees have more control over certain call features such as muting, holding, and calling parking. Moreover, employees can switch between devices seamlessly during the call, from computer to phone.
- Enhances audio quality
Softphone utilizes VoIP technology to execute calls. As a result, superior audio quality is maintained even if calls are made through computer softphones.
- Facilitates call recording
Call recording serves as a valuable resource for businesses. It not only helps in keeping track of conversations but also can be used as training materials. Automated recording of phone conversations is made possible by desktop softphones, which can be stored and listened to whenever needed. Employees can also look back at the recordings when they need to revise or review any important pointers from a meeting.
- Introduces real-time text-to-speech improving communication
Text-to-speech allows employees to communicate without ever picking up their handsets or softphones. The technology offers employees the possibility of receiving both personalized and default messages. This can be extremely helpful if someone needs to communicate while taking part in another meeting or a call.
- Offers the option of intervening a real-time voice messages
If an employee is busy taking a call, the caller may leave a voice message that the employee can listen to later. But what happens if the employee becomes available during the recording of the voice message? Softphones allow users to listen to the caller’s voice message and accept the call in real time.
- Boosts information and collaboration
PC softphones offer comprehensive collaboration aids for businesses. It can be used to send, receive, forward or print faxes. It also provides the option of SMS texting from computers to individuals as well as groups. One-click online meetings and video conferencing are essential collaboration features for businesses. A desktop softphone also allows sharing information through file sharing and group discussions.