Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Numbers

 

A virtual number, also referred to as direct inward dialing numbers or direct inward numbers, is a phone number without a directly related telephone line. Typically, these numbers are programmed so as to automatically forward outgoing calls to one of your pre-defined phone numbers, selected by the customer: landline, mobile or VoIP based. All calls forwarded to the virtual number are forwarded on the same server used for the main line phone. Unlike a public switched telephone network (PSTN), where each VSN is associated with a main switch and all calls to the VSN are forwarded to the main line, calls to a virtual number are bypassed the main switch, go through the virtual number's server and routed to the appropriate phone number. This feature improves the quality of services. It also provides significant cost savings over the public PSTN.

Some providers offer virtual numbers based on area codes and/or city/state codes. Certain areas, such as rural and remote areas, may not have a separate telephone system, leading to calls coming in from out-of-area areas having local extensions. A virtual number may be used for such calls and forwarding to a local number will not incur additional charges. Some providers also provide virtual numbers in conjunction with local area codes. If the area code cannot be found in the database, a special "not applicable" message may be displayed.

The advantages of виртуальные номера include: they are very cost-effective when compared with conventional phone numbers; they are available at a fraction of the cost of long distance calls; they do not incur any additional charges for call forwarding; there is no difference in call forwarding service when the call goes through a virtual number and a local number. Virtual numbers can be easily configured so that they work as mailboxes and send faxes as well. An added advantage is that when users enter their phone numbers for billing and virtual number maintenance, it will also appear as a local number to any person who receives a call through it. This makes the numbers look more professional and reduces the chance of confusion.

However, there are some disadvantages of using virtual numbers. For example, there is no advantage associated with making calls internationally when the number is non-local. Another drawback is that a virtual number is not allowed to have any connection to TID via Voice over Internet Protocol. Finally, since a virtual number cannot display the IP address of a local phone, calls made from abroad will not have IP address information added to the end call details.

Virtual phone numbers also have an advantage for some business owners. For example, busy executives may use virtual numbers to manage their time and/or avoid being late for important business meetings. A third advantage is virtual numbers for corporate and company use, which are particularly useful for business people who are always on the road or have other extracurricular activities that require a lot of traveling. A last advantage of virtual phone numbers is for public officials who want to maintain contact with constituents. In general, people hesitate to give their phone numbers because they feel that others might use it unethically. In addition, people are sometimes hesitant to provide their phone numbers when they visit places where street addresses are displayed.

Virtual phone numbers can be an effective tool for managing time, and they are particularly useful in business and other organizational settings where time is vitally important. But like all technology, virtual numbers will eventually have to go away, and in the mean time, people may want to consider using alternative methods of contacting people such as email addresses. Email addresses can also be used to add to a company's exposure and can also be used by clients who prefer not to give their phone numbers.