Essential strategies to defend your VoIP system against TDoS attacks
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers a range of benefits for organizations, including enhanced call quality, greater scalability and mobility, and reduced operational costs. However, it also introduces specific security risks, and among them are telephony denial-of-service (TDoS) attacks. These attacks can significantly disrupt business communications and operations. Gaining a clear understanding of TDoS threats is essential to strengthening your VoIP system’s resilience and maintaining service continuity. What is TDoS? TDoS is a specific type of denial-of-service (DoS) attack directed at VoIP systems. Unlike typical DoS attacks aimed at IT systems, TDoS is more specialized and is often used against critical services such as hospital phone lines and emergency services. Considering that these phone lines are crucial to saving people’s lives, TDoS is a pressing concern. And even more disturbing, some TDoS attackers go as far as demanding ransom, akin to the tactics employed in ransomware attacks. TDoS attacks are characterized by their efficiency, requiring fewer resources than traditional DoS attacks. In its simplest form, a TDoS attack involves an automated phone dialer repeatedly calling a specific number and disconnecting, preventing others from accessing the line. What makes TDoS a challenge to trace and identify is that attackers use cryptocurrencies and caller-ID spoofing, effectively hiding the identity of the attacker. What should organizations do to prevent TDoS attacks? Any business that relies on VoIP for communication must take proactive steps to protect its system against TDoS attacks. VoIP security measures work best when implemented long before an attack happens to effectively ensure your organization is protected from any potential TDoS storm. Make sure to include security measures when your VoIP system is first installed. However, while fortifying your VoIP system with complex security measures may seem like the best solution, it may hinder business operations. Most businesses rely heavily on seamless communication with customers, partners, and third parties, and stringent security measures can impede this essential function. Instead, you should find a good balance between security and usability. Here are some strategies to achieve this balance: Call monitoring: One of the easiest ways to prevent a TDoS attack is by implementing call monitoring to analyze and track call traffic. Once call traffic breaches an established limit, it can be directed to other organizations. IP address verification: Set up your VoIP to only receive calls from select and verified IP addresses, such as within your service area. Anti-fraud software: Implement fraud prevention software designed to autonomously analyze multiple phone calls at once for signs of a TDoS attack, such as too many calls from the same origin points or directed at the same destination. Once the software has identified a possible attack in progress, it blocks or reroutes the calls. Call overflow reserve: Maintain or prepare additional call capacity that can be activated in response to sudden increases in call volume. Periodic assessment: Perform regular assessments to ensure your VoIP systems have the necessary call capacity (both primary and reserve), no matter the volume of traffic. Use the results of these assessments to identify and correct weaknesses in your VoIP system. Education: Train your employees to recognize the signs of a TDoS attack and implement the necessary protocols to mitigate it. Continuity of operations agreements: Organizations that handle healthcare or emergency service calls need to establish agreements with similar organizations to ensure service continuity during a TDoS attack. Protect your VoIP from TDoS and other threats. Connect with one of our IT specialists today.
Beyond the basics: Mastering essential Excel features in Microsoft 365
Excel has always been a powerful tool for anyone working with data, and with Microsoft 365, it has only become even better. Whether you’re handling financial reports, analyzing trends, or simply organizing information, the latest updates to Excel make it faster, more versatile, and collaborative. Here’s a guide to the most important new features you should take advantage of in Excel for Microsoft 365. Get things done faster with SEARCH If you’ve ever struggled to find a command in Excel’s Ribbon, the SEARCH feature is a game-changer. Simply type what you need, such as “pivot table” or “sum,” and Excel will show you the best options to get started. It also remembers your previous searches, making frequent tasks more accessible. Managing complex spreadsheets then becomes significantly easier and more efficient, helping you save valuable time. Explore advanced chart types Visualizing data is crucial; that’s why Microsoft has introduced a range of new chart types to help you display your information more effectively. From treemaps (perfect for hierarchical data) to waterfall charts (ideal for financial statements), Excel now offers a variety of ways to see your data come to life. These chart types can help you uncover insights that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as revenue trends or sales patterns. Real-time collaboration The era of exchanging Excel files through endless email chains is over. With Microsoft 365, your team can collaborate simultaneously on the same spreadsheet. As long as the file is saved in SharePoint or OneDrive, your team can work together in real time. You’ll see exactly what others are editing, and you can even leave comments inside cells to discuss changes. Linked data types Excel’s linked data types are a powerful feature that lets you pull in real-time, updated information from the web directly into your spreadsheets. For example, if you’re tracking stock prices, you can enter a company’s ticker symbol, and Excel will automatically fetch the latest stock price. The data in these cells updates regularly, so there’s no need to manually update figures. Dynamic arrays for smarter formulas Dynamic arrays are one of the most exciting additions to Excel for Microsoft 365. These formulas allow you to return multiple results from a single calculation. The FILTER function, for instance, can be used to pull only certain data from a list. As your data changes, the dynamic arrays adjust automatically, making them perfect for ever-changing datasets. Version History and AutoSave Losing your work is probably the most nerve-wracking thing about working on spreadsheets. Fear no more. With AutoSave enabled on files stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or OneDrive for Business, your changes are saved automatically. If anything goes wrong, Version History lets you easily restore an earlier version of your file. You can review, compare, and recover past versions whenever you need to, giving you complete control and peace of mind. Sheet Views for custom filtering Team members often need to look at data in different ways because of their unique roles or perspectives. With Sheet Views, Excel allows you to create custom filtered or sorted views of your worksheet without affecting the rest of your team’s view. Whether you’re analyzing sales data or project timelines, this feature makes it easy to personalize your experience while keeping everyone else’s work intact. 3D maps to visualize geospatial data For those working with geographical data, Excel’s 3D Maps feature provides an interactive way to display and analyze information on a three-dimensional globe. This feature is great for presenting sales or demographic data across regions and allows you to see patterns that are much harder to spot in flat spreadsheets. Microsoft 365 Copilot For users who subscribe to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Excel now includes an AI assistant that can help you generate charts, summarize data, and even suggest formulas. While it’s still in its early stages, Copilot can offer guidance for users who may not be Excel experts. However, don’t expect it to replace the experience of manually crafting detailed analyses just yet. For more Microsoft 365 tips and technology insights, contact our knowledgeable team. We’re always ready to assist you.
How hybrid cloud solutions drive resilience and competitive edge
In an era defined by digital transformation, the ability to adapt, secure, and optimize is critical for sustained business success. Hybrid cloud solutions offer a sophisticated framework for achieving these goals, providing a versatile infrastructure that supports diverse business needs. From enhancing disaster recovery to enabling cutting-edge AI initiatives, hybrid clouds are fueling the forward momentum of businesses worldwide. A hybrid cloud strategy offers significant benefits for businesses: Greater flexibility and scalability One of the key advantages of a hybrid cloud is its ability to adapt as businesses evolve. Companies can scale their computing resources up or down based on current needs. For instance, during busy times, such as the holiday shopping season, an online store can quickly access additional computing power from the public cloud. When things slow down, they can reduce that power, only paying for what they use. Enhanced security and compliance Hybrid clouds also allow businesses to safeguard sensitive data and meet industry regulations more effectively. Highly sensitive information, such as customer financial records or confidential plans, can be stored in a private cloud for greater control over security. Less critical tasks and data can be stored in the public cloud, where they will still be accessible, scalable, and protected — though with different levels of control compared to a private cloud. By aligning the level of security with data sensitivity, businesses can achieve a balanced and secure infrastructure. Wiser IT spending Adopting a hybrid cloud can lead to more cost-effective IT spending. Noncritical tasks that don’t require constant high performance or tight security can be handled on the public cloud, which often operates on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. For critical operations that demand stricter control or specific performance, the private cloud can then be used. This strategy enables businesses to optimize their budgets while maintaining security and performance where it matters most. Improved disaster recovery and business continuity With a hybrid cloud setup, companies can strengthen their ability to recover from disruptions and maintain uninterrupted operations. Critical data and applications can be duplicated across both private and public clouds. In the event of emergencies, such as natural disasters, equipment failures, or cyberattacks, businesses can quickly switch to backup systems. Having reliable backups minimizes downtime, reduces data loss, and ensures customers continue to receive services. Ultimately, a hybrid cloud provides businesses with a practical, adaptable approach to managing technology. To learn more about hybrid cloud solutions, talk to our cloud experts today.
Effective video marketing ideas that elevate and promote your brand
Intense competition and limited attention spans makes it more difficult than ever to engage your customer demographic and promote your company. Video marketing helps companies overcome these challenges and connect with their audiences at a deeper level. Here are some video marketing ideas to elevate and promote your brand. Customer testimonial videos The easiest way to take advantage of video marketing is to share your customers’ honest experiences. Customer testimonial videos allow potential customers to see real people using and benefiting from your products or services. Hearing positive feedback from satisfied customers can build trust and credibility for your brand. For instance, a boutique skincare brand might feature videos of customers describing how a product cleared their skin and provide visual evidence, which can convince hesitant buyers to make a purchase. Tutorial videos Another effective way to showcase your products is through product demonstration and tutorial videos. Offering step-by-step instructions through video helps customers get the most out of your products or services as quickly as possible. This type of content can also help reduce the number of customer inquiries and returns, as customers will have a better understanding of how to use the product correctly. Explainer videos Simplifying complex ideas with clear visuals and narration makes explainer videos essential for communicating value quickly. They help viewers grasp what your brand offers without wading through jargon. A software company could use an animated explainer to show how their platform streamlines workflow, turning abstract features into easy-to-understand benefits. Company culture Video marketing is not only about promoting products and services, but it can also be used to showcase your company’s culture. A behind-the-scenes look at your team and workplace can give potential customers an insight into what makes your company stand out from competitors. This type of content can also help build a personal connection with your audience by humanizing your brand. Behind-the-scenes footage Giving your audience a peek behind the curtain reveals the human side of your brand. Whether it’s showing how your team develops new products, prepares for an event, or even handles daily operations, these videos create familiarity and warmth. A small brewery, for example, might share clips of their brewing process and staff stories, helping patrons feel connected beyond the finished product. Animated videos Animation adds a creative flair that can make your message memorable and visually appealing. It’s especially effective for illustrating concepts that don’t easily translate to live footage. For example, a financial advisory firm might use animation to depict how compound interest grows investments over time, turning a complicated topic into engaging, digestible content. Live streaming Streaming live events creates an instant connection with your audience. It’s a format that’s particularly effective for product launches, Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes tours, creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity. Landing page videos Videos placed on landing pages can instantly grab attention and boost conversions by delivering your key message efficiently. Unlike long text, videos communicate emotion and information simultaneously, encouraging visitors to take action. User-generated content When customers create and share videos featuring your products, it provides authentic social proof and broadens your brand’s reach. Encouraging user-generated content can foster a community around your brand and foster trust among potential buyers. A travel gear company might run a contest asking customers to submit adventure clips featuring their backpacks, resulting in fresh, relatable promotional material. Using a combination of video marketing formats allows businesses to engage diverse audiences, deliver tailored messages, and maximize reach across multiple platforms. If you want more tips on using technology to boost your marketing efforts, contact us today. We can provide advanced technology solutions and insightful recommendations.
Free up Mac space fast: Hidden files you can safely delete
Is your Mac running low on storage or feeling sluggish? Hidden files could be to blame. This article dives into the lesser-known corners of macOS, revealing which concealed files you can safely delete to reclaim space and improve performance. Understanding hidden files on macOS macOS hides certain files and folders to protect critical system components. However, not all hidden files are essential. Some are temporary or cache files that can be safely deleted to free up space. To reveal hidden files in Finder, open a Finder window and press Command + Shift + . (period). This will make hidden files and folders appear grayed out. To hide them again, simply press the same key combination. Hidden files you can safely delete 1. Temporary files in /private/var/tmp and /private/tmpThese directories store temporary files used by the operating system and installed applications. Most files here can be safely deleted unless they’re currently in use (indicated by a red circle with a white dash). Note that macOS typically clears these folders upon restart. 2. User cache files in ~/Library/CachesApplications generate cache files to streamline processes and improve performance. However, these files can accumulate over time, gradually consuming a substantial amount of storage space. You can delete the contents of this folder to free up space. Be cautious not to delete the entire Caches folder—only its contents. 3. Application support filesLocated in ~/Library/Application Support, this folder contains data for applications. When you uninstall an app, its support files might remain. You can safely delete folders related to apps you no longer use. 4. Crash reports in /Library/Application Support/CrashReporterCrash reports for applications are stored in this folder. If you’re not troubleshooting any issues, these files can be deleted without impacting system performance. 5. Old log filesSystem and application logs are stored in /private/var/log and ~/Library/Logs. These logs can grow over time. You can delete old log files, but make sure that no applications are still using them. Files to avoid deleting While cleaning up, avoid deleting the following: System and library folders – Files within /System and /Library are critical for macOS operations..DS_Store files – Folder view preferences are stored in these files. Deleting them won’t harm your system, but may reset folder settings.Hidden files you don’t recognize – If you’re unsure about a file’s purpose, it’s best to leave it untouched or consult a professional. Tips for safe cleanup When you’re cleaning up your Mac, there are some things you should remember: Back up before deleting – Always back up your data before making changes to system files.Use disk cleanup tools – Consider using reputable tools such as OnyX or CleanMyMac to automate the cleanup process.Plan routine maintenance – Schedule periodic cleanups to prevent the buildup of unnecessary files. Regularly managing hidden files will help you maintain optimal performance and free up valuable storage on your Mac. Remember to proceed with caution and when in doubt, contact our team.
Simple steps to secure your business VoIP phone and communication tools
Businesses typically rely on Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems for smooth communication, handling sensitive information, client details, and important discussions. But as these systems become more popular, they attract more cybercriminals and attacks. Keeping them secure is therefore more important than ever. Discover how you can safeguard your business communications infrastructure with some straightforward steps. The importance of protecting your communication channels today Many businesses depend on VoIP and other digital communication systems to facilitate smooth conversations, effective team collaboration, and strong customer relationships. These tools make talking, messaging, and sharing information incredibly easy and fast. However, this convenience comes with inherent risks. Every day, your business exchanges a significant amount of information, from phone calls and text messages to shared files and collaborative documents. Because this data often includes private or valuable details, communication systems are particularly attractive targets for malicious actors. In recent years, attacks targeting communication systems, such as disruptions to phone services or attempts to steal data, have become more common. If someone manages to breach your communication system, it could lead to serious problems, including lost business opportunities, legal complications, and lasting reputational harm. Furthermore, governments are enforcing stricter regulations to ensure companies protect customer data. Noncompliance with these mandates can result in substantial penalties and severe damage to your organization’s credibility. How to keep your communication systems secure Protecting your VoIP and communication setup involves taking a few key steps: Choose a reliable service provider When selecting a VoIP or communication service, prioritize providers that put security first. Look for these important features: Encryption: This technology scrambles your calls and messages, making them unreadable to anyone outside your conversation. Access controls: By properly configuring access controls, only the right people in your company can use specific tools or view certain information. Transparency: Your provider should be open about how they handle your data and offer tools that allow you to monitor activity. Strengthen your overall online security Your communication system is part of a larger digital setup that needs to be protected. Make sure your company uses firewalls and other protective measures to block unauthorized access to your networks from the outside. If your employees work from various locations, it’s wise to implement security methods such as single sign-on and biometric authentication to verify who is logging in, preventing unauthorized access. Use secure equipment Your phones, headsets, and meeting room devices need to be secure, too, so look for hardware designed with security in mind. Some products offer built-in encryption and can be managed remotely, making it easier to keep everything updated and protected, no matter where your team is working. Train your team effectively Many security issues begin with simple human mistakes. Teach your employees essential skills such as creating long and strong passwords and recognizing suspicious messages or calls to enhance their security awareness. Adding extra security layers, such as multifactor authentication (where you confirm your identity in more than one way), can also significantly boost your protection. Monitor and be prepared Security is an ongoing process that requires consistent care and vigilance. Use monitoring tools to spot unusual activity and identify potential threats early. Also, create a detailed incident response plan outlining steps to take if a breach occurs, so you can act quickly and reduce damage. These are just some ways you can protect your VoIP and communication systems from hackers and breaches. For more security and technology tips, contact us today. Our knowledgeable IT team is always ready to help.
Beware of these costly errors when picking a cloud service provider
Cloud computing promises agility and cost savings, but poor provider choices can lead to spiraling costs and operational headaches. That’s why we’ve compiled the most common errors companies make when choosing cloud services so you can make a more informed decision. Treating all cloud vendors as the same Differences in platform design, industry specialization, available features, and performance levels create a broad spectrum of cloud offerings. For example, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure serve a wide range of industries and provide extensive global infrastructure. At the same time, some providers focus on niche markets, such as healthcare or finance, with built-in compliance features and security protocols tailored to those fields. Assuming all providers offer the same tools and performance levels could lead a company to select a cloud environment that doesn’t support its long-term digital strategy. Failing to understand the different cloud platforms and their use cases Cloud platforms typically fall into three categories: public, private, and hybrid. Each represents a distinct approach to delivering computing resources. Public clouds use shared infrastructure provided by third-party vendors and are accessed online. They are budget-friendly and offer flexibility, making them ideal for businesses with changing demands. Private clouds rely on infrastructure dedicated to a single organization, offering greater control and security. Hybrid cloud combines private and public cloud environments, keeping sensitive data secure while leveraging the scalability of public cloud resources. Without a clear grasp of these models, a company may pick a public cloud when sensitive data protection demands a private cloud, exposing itself to compliance risks. Alternatively, selecting a private cloud without the scalability needed for peak demand can cause bottlenecks. Expecting any software to run flawlessly on every cloud Cloud environments differ in architecture and supported technologies, affecting how software performs after migration. Legacy applications built for on-premises servers often require refactoring or replatforming before they operate efficiently in the cloud. Simply lifting and shifting software to a cloud environment can cause performance degradation or increased costs due to inefficient resource use. Cloud-native applications are specifically designed to take full advantage of the cloud’s features, such as elasticity, microservices, and containerization. This allows them to scale automatically while managing failures with ease. Overlooking vendor lock-in and restrictive contract terms Contracts with cloud providers may bind companies to specific technologies or services that become costly or difficult to move away from. Vendor lock-in happens when migrating workloads to another platform demands significant effort, retraining staff, or rewriting applications. A startup that signs a multiyear contract with a provider heavily reliant on proprietary tools might later struggle to adopt innovations available from competitors. In contrast, companies prioritizing open standards and portability reduce the risk of lock-in. Evaluating contract terms carefully, including exit clauses, data ownership, and migration assistance, keeps your business flexible. Losing control over cloud costs through lack of oversight Cloud billing models can appear simple but often hide complexities. Charges may accumulate based on compute hours, storage capacity, data transfers, and other metrics. Without ongoing budgeting and cost management, spending can escalate quickly, catching finance teams off guard. For example, an organization launching a new app might underestimate the bandwidth costs from high user traffic or fail to delete unused virtual machines running in the background. Setting up alerts, conducting regular cost audits, and rightsizing resources help maintain financial discipline in the cloud. Choosing a cloud provider that fits your business doesn’t have to be a complex and error-prone process. With the right approach and guidance, organizations can effectively evaluate their needs and select a provider that offers the best combination of features, pricing, and reliability. Contact us today to learn how our experts can help you navigate the cloud market and make the most out of your investment.
A guide to effectively leveraging threat intelligence
Organizations that invest in threat intelligence platforms (TIPs) often struggle to use them effectively. TIPs are designed to collect, analyze, and share threat data, but they can become overwhelming or underutilized without the right approach. Our guide helps you choose a platform that aligns perfectly with your team’s skills and existing infrastructure, empowering you to respond to potential threats more efficiently and effectively. Align threat intelligence to your environment One of the biggest mistakes organizations make with threat intelligence is prioritizing volume over relevance. Having access to dozens of threat feeds may seem useful, but if that data doesn’t apply to your specific business risks, it quickly becomes irrelevant. Instead, focus on intelligence directly tied to your assets and vulnerabilities. For example, if your organization doesn’t use legacy Windows systems, a feed heavy with Windows XP exploits will be of very little help and can even distract your team. Look for nonnegotiable features Not all threat intelligence feeds offer the same value. A TIP’s strength lies in how well it consolidates, enriches, and normalizes data into actionable intelligence. When evaluating TIPs, look for one that supports protocols such as Structured Threat Information Expression and Trusted Automated Exchange of Intelligence Information. Together, they provide context-rich insights that explain who is behind the threat, what, when, and how it happened, plus suggested responses. Also important is the TIP’s ability to filter out false positives and eliminate redundant data. Some TIPs use artificial intelligence (AI) to perform these tasks efficiently. However, if not properly configured, AI can be a double-edged sword; while it reduces manual effort, it could also misclassify data. That’s why it’s important not to blindly trust AI. It should assist, not replace, a security analyst’s judgment. Spot patterns with visual intelligence Visual threat dashboards can transform raw data into intuitive insights. Anomalies, such as sudden spikes in failed logins or unusual traffic to suspicious IP addresses, become easier to detect and investigate when laid out visually. These visualizations help analysts spot emerging patterns that might otherwise be lost in vast data streams, turning your TIP from a reactive tool into a proactive one and helping you anticipate threats before they escalate. Make threat intelligence actionable Effective threat intelligence goes beyond dashboards; it drives action. Your TIP should trigger specific responses, such as: Automatically updating firewall rules Initiating timely vulnerability patches Isolating suspicious endpoints Essentially, your TIP should help you react faster, not just accumulate more data. However, achieving this level of automation requires seamless integration. Your TIP must seamlessly connect with existing security tools such as security information and event management systems to facilitate rapid data flow and minimize response time. Adopt a multilevel intelligence strategy A robust TIP empowers organizations by delivering insights across three critical levels: Strategic – high-level insights into trends and risks to inform executive decisions Tactical – detailed technical information on specific threats, such as IP addresses, domains, and malware signatures Operational – real-time intelligence to support swift and effective incident response The real challenge, however, lies in breaking down team silos. To unlock the full potential of threat intelligence, teams across vulnerability management, network operations, and incident response must collaborate closely. Without coordinated action following alerts, even the most critical intelligence loses its value. But with the right approach, threat intelligence becomes more than a simple data stream, turning into a fundamental part of your cybersecurity defense. For tailored advice on strengthening your security posture, connect with our IT specialists today.
Simple fixes for common network problems
You don’t need to be an IT expert to fix frustrating network errors. This post breaks down five common culprits — like DNS issues and IP conflicts — and explains how to resolve them using simple, practical solutions. Learn what to check, what to restart, and when to call for help. Error 404: Page Not Found Error 404 is one of the most common network errors that you may encounter. This error occurs when you try to access a web page that does not exist or has been moved. It can also happen if the website’s server is down. The following steps can help you fix this error: Check if the website address is correct. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. Restart your computer or device. Use a different browser to access the page. DNS server not responding When your DNS (Domain Name System) server is not responding, you won’t be able to access any website, and you may see an error message saying, “DNS server not responding.” Here’s how you can resolve a DNS error: Restart your router or modem. Reset your DNS settings to default. Try using a different DNS server. If the issue persists, contact your internet service provider for assistance. Limited connectivity Limited connectivity is a common error that occurs when your computer or device is connected to the network but you can’t access the internet. This error can happen due to various reasons, including incorrect network settings or problems with your router. Take these steps to address connectivity issues: Restart your router or modem. Make sure your network settings are correct. Disable and then re-enable your network adapter. Run the Network Troubleshooter on your computer. IP address conflict When two devices within the same network share the same IP address, an IP address conflict occurs. This error can cause problems with your network connectivity and may result in your computer or device being unable to connect to the network. To resolve IP address conflicts, do the following: Restart your router or modem. Release and renew your IP address. Change your network adapter’s IP address. Assign static IP addresses to your devices. Slow internet connection A slow internet connection can be frustrating, especially if you need to access a website or download a file quickly. This error can happen due to various reasons, including network congestion, problems with your router, or outdated hardware. Here are the steps for fixing slow internet connections: Restart your router or modem. Check your network speed using an online speed test tool. Update your router’s firmware. Upgrade your router or network adapter. Network errors can be frustrating and disruptive, but most of them can be easily fixed. To learn more about how to optimize your network, call our experts today.
Making the right call: Should you use Zoom Phone or VoIP for your organization?
Choosing a phone system doesn’t have to be confusing. We compare Zoom Phone and traditional Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in a clear, nontechnical way to help you find the best fit for your business. What’s the difference? Traditional VoIP systems have been around for a while, enabling phone calls over the internet instead of using traditional phone lines. Depending on your setup, this system might live entirely in your office (on-premises), partly in your office and partly online (hybrid), or completely in the cloud. This gives you flexibility, but it can come with extra costs and management needs. Zoom Phone is a newer option that builds on the Zoom platform many of us are already using for video calls. It brings phone calling into the same app, making it easy for users to switch between a call and a video meeting without juggling multiple tools. Setup and maintenance: Who’s doing the heavy lifting? Setting up a traditional VoIP system usually involves more steps. If you go the on-premises route, you’ll need physical equipment installed in your office and ongoing support to keep it all running smoothly. Even a cloud-based VoIP setup may need careful configuration and maintenance. Zoom Phone, on the other hand, is designed to be quick and easy. Since it’s fully cloud-based, there’s no need to install special hardware. Setup can often be completed in just a few days, and updates or changes can be made with just a few clicks. It’s perfect for businesses looking to avoid complicated IT processes. Does it work with your other tools? Traditional VoIP systems can be customized to work with a wide variety of business tools, including customer relationship management (CRM) systems. However, getting everything to work together might require some technical help or custom development. On the other hand, Zoom Phone is built for modern workplaces and integrates naturally with apps such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Slack. If you’re already using Zoom for video meetings, adopting Zoom Phone will feel like an extension of what you already know. It’s designed to keep everything connected with minimal hassle. Cost: What’s the real price tag? When it comes to expenses, traditional VoIP can require a large upfront investment. You may need to buy hardware, licenses, and pay for installation. Over time, this can work out to be cost-effective, but it does mean spending more at the start. Zoom Phone follows a subscription model, where you pay a fixed amount per user every month or year. The pricing is more predictable with most essential features included upfront, making budgeting easier while avoiding surprise fees or expensive add-ons. Security and compliance: Is your data safe? Security is strong on both sides, but the details differ. Traditional VoIP systems often appeal to industries with strict rules (e.g., healthcare or finance) because they can be installed on site, giving the organization full control over their data and security settings. If your business has unique compliance requirements, this level of control can be a big plus. Zoom Phone is also secure, building on Zoom’s enterprise-grade infrastructure. It offers robust encryption options and adheres to key compliance standards, ensuring data security. And with centralized management for video, phone, and messaging tools, it simplifies security settings while maintaining consistency across all connected platforms. What’s best for you? The right phone system depends on your business’s needs. If your company relies on highly customized setups or needs to meet specific compliance rules, traditional VoIP might be the better choice. But if you’re looking for something fast, simple, and easy to manage — especially for a remote or hybrid team — Zoom Phone could be the perfect fit. Instead of thinking of it as a one-or-the-other decision, consider what your communication needs will look like not just today, but in the next few years. Is your business growing quickly? Will your team keep working remotely? How much tech management do you want to take on? The answers to these questions can help you identify the system that best aligns with your organization’s goals. Still unsure which phone system is right for your business? Let our experts guide you to the right choice. Contact us today and discover the perfect option.