Five Steps to Join VoIP Supply Partner Program

May 9, 2016 by Ying-Hui Chen

VoIP Supply’s Partner Program is designed to assist all of our valued partners who want to offer the perfect telecommunications solutions to their clients. In order to give you a big picture of how our Partner Program works, we would like to break the process down into five simple steps.

STEP ONE: Briefly Understand VoIP Supply Partner Program

Visit out website and read our blog: 5 Benefits to Join The VoIP Supply Partner Program to have the basic understanding of our Partner Program and the benefits you can take advantage of. Our product offerings include hardware, VoIP service, Internet Service, and On-site implementation.

STEP TWO: Contact Us

Once you have a brief understanding of the program, simply fill out the form below or on our website, or contact Don, our Channel Manager, at 716-213-6906 to request a free consultation. Our specialists are here to help you find the option that can best fit in your business needs. Currently we have two Partner Program options available: Referral Partner and VoIP Supply Partner.

partner

STEP THREE: Detailed Discussion

Our specialist will contact you shortly after you submit the consultation request for a further discussion. Based on your specific business demands, our specialist will guide you to the best option and discuss the flexible custom solutions you may need such as onsite installation, internet or PRI connections, etc.

STEP FOUR: Confirmation

Once you decide to join our Partner Program, you will be given the terms and condition to confirm our partnership. Read them through carefully and contact us anytime if you have any concerns.

STEP FIVE: Get On Board!

Now, you are ready to broaden your business capability and start enjoying VoIP Supply Partner Program benefits! With our industry aggressive commissions, dedicated VoIP support, and bountiful resources, we will take your business onto the next level and help you succeed.

If you are interested in joining our Partner Program or have more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Don, our Channel Manager, at 716-213-6906 or email us at [email protected]. We are here to provide you any VoIP assistance you may need.

What Lync Users Need to Know About Skype for Business

May 4, 2016 by Ying-Hui Chen

April 2015, Skype officially launched Skype for Business to replace Lync, combining features of Lync and the consumer Skype software. This announcement aroused a great deal of discussion about the upgrades, differences, and direct impacts on current Lync users. In this blog, we will share some key information that Lync users need to be aware of about Skype for Business.

What’s New?

Skype for Business rolled out as an update to Lync, improving the discoverability of the dial pad, access to controls and device selection interfaces. The three main benefits of this upgrade include Skype-Inspired Design, Global Reach, and Full Lync Feature set.

Skype-Inspired Design: To align with Skype’s user experience, Skype for Business delivers familiar Skype icons for audio and video calling, a call monitor to keep active calls visible while switching between apps, as well as the integration with Skype directory. This gives the updated users the look and feel of Skype.
Global Reach: Skype for Business enables enterprises to connect to the entire Skype network through IM, audio, and video, expanding their global reach.
Full Lync Functionality and Simplified controls: Skype for Business keeps all the features and functionality as well as the control, security and reliability that Lync users expect. It also simplified the control and patch processes.

Can I still Use Lync Interface?

Absolutely! Administrators have the ability to control and choose when you would like to roll out the updated experience to your users. For Lync Online users with Office 365 ProPlus, Office 365 Business Premium or Office 2013, the default is the updated Skype for Business interface and for Lync Server users, Lync UI will be the default experience.

Switch back to Lync Interface

Administrators are able to adjust the setting from the new Skype client design back to the familiar Lync user interface design for their users. Click here for detailed instruction of how to switch between Lync and Skype for Business interfaces.

Upgrade to Skype for Business

You could use Remote PowerShell in Office 365 or utilize the PowerShell script provided by Microsoft to implement the migration to Skype for Business.

If you have more questions about Skype for Business, please visit our website or follow the links below for more information. You can also consult with Microsoft.

Can I Use WiFi Phones With Grandstream UCM?

by Ying-Hui Chen

Our tech support team at VoIP Supply offers great pre- and post-sales support plus provisioning, consultations, configuration, and installation help. We get a lot of VoIP hardware and software questions and would like to share the solutions with everyone.

In previous Mom’s calling Q&A series, we have discussed: How to Program GXP2200 Expansion Module. Today, we have more new real questions and answers from VoIP users just like you.

Can I Use WiFi Phones With Grandstream UCM?

Q: Can I use WiFi phones with Grandstream UCM? Is Incom 1000G a good choice? How does it perform hold and transfer functions? How would Spectralink 8440 work with UCM system?

A: They will both work but the Spectralink 8440 will be a more expensive option. They both will perform hold and transfer functions. They can also use feature codes to transfer with the UCM which might be an easier method. There is also the Grandstream DP715 and the Grandstream DP710 if they had any interest in a DECT option that is auto-provisioned with the UCM.

Stay Tuned

Come back for more VoIP questions and answers next time! If you have VoIP questions to ask us, please submit a technical support ticket or contact our VoIP experts today at (866) 582-8591.

Adjusting The Brightness Of Your Grandstream GXP2135

April 29, 2016 by Steve Lopian

If the 2.8 inch color display on your new Grandstream GXP2135 is too bright or dim out of the box, then follow these quick and easy steps to adjust the brightness! Because not all office settings are the same, Grandstream has made it simple to customize this small, but important detail on your new phone.

Start by pressing the round Menu button on the front face of the phone.

Then select Preference, followed by Appearance.

Once you are there, select Idle LCD Brightness. From there, you will be able to adjust the brightness of your screen by pressing the Left and Right arrow keys.

Reveal The Truth About Better Sounding Headsets

April 28, 2016 by Ying-Hui Chen

A study designed to identify the effect of superior noise-canceling headsets on a retailer’s inbound contact center with over 500 seats was conducted by Vidal Consulting Group. It targets headsets that are able to eliminate 90% or more of background noise and tracks certain key performance indicators from the targets.

The performance result shows a noticeable improvement in both the agent and customer experience: A significant decrease in average hold time and a meaningful increase in revenue per call.

80 agents in total took part in this case study, 40 in the Control Group, who used the same headsets throughout the study, and the other 40 in the Sample Set, who were given VXi headsets after the first 4 weeks. Half of the sample set (20 agents) were given VXi Passport 21V binaural headsets, and the other half received VXi V150 Wireless Office headsets.

The chart below presents what they found:

To have a copy of the full case study details, or to learn more about the benefits that VXi’s superior noise-canceling headsets can bring to your business, please click here.

What’s The Difference Between Skype and Skype for Business?

April 26, 2016 by Ying-Hui Chen

It all started a decade ago when Skype blurred the boundary between international and domestic communications. Today, Skype has been used by over 300 million people all over the world, creating unprecedented bonds among people.

Well, that’s not the end of the story. Skype has further reached out to the business market, focusing on business communication tools people use at work. So, how is Skype for Business different from Skype? Let’s look from three main aspects: Capability, Cost and Security.

Skype v.s. Skype for Business

Capability

Both Skype and Skype for Business allow users to message, share files, and video chat. Simply install the software and prepare the required hardware, you are ready to chat! The difference is the number of people you are allowed to meet up simultaneously. While Skype allows you to have up to 25 people on group calls with 10 people video enabled, Skype for Business has the ability to raise the limit up to 250 people!

Cost

skype 4b-2 Skype is free among Skype users but calls to and from landlines, VoIP cloud services and mobiles are not free. Although they require Skype credits, many less expensive call plans are available for you to avoid hefty international call charges.

Skype for Business is not free in all cases. There are two basic plans available:

$2/ month per user with an annual commitment
$5.50/ month per user with an annual commitment

The cost of Skype for Business varies case by case, we encourage you to consult with Microsoft for a proper calculation. Visit our website for more detailed information.

Security

Both Skype and Skype for Business offer privacy settings that protect your account from being disturbed by scammers. In most cases, your account is secure and it requires some effort for criminals to invade. However, Skype for Business allow you to have better controls. In addition to the authentication and encryption for producing and archiving private communications, it also allows Skype providers to control their guests’ accounts. They can easily disable or enable certain functions or calls to make the communication more efficient.

Depending on your needs, Skype for Business could be a cost-effective substitute for other VoIP services considering the functions and costs. If you are interested in learning more about Skype and Skype for Business, please visit our website, or Skype’s website or simply give us a call at 1-800-398-VoIP, Our VoIP experts are here to help and will be happy to assist you with any questions you have!

VoIP Supply Open House: Learn about VoIP and Tour One of The Best Places to Work in WNY

by Ying-Hui Chen

Are you curious about what it is like to work in one of the Best Places to Work in WNY? Are you interested in trying out popular Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) equipment? Whether you want to learn more about VoIP or you just want to have fun and network with VoIP Supply staff, now is your chance!

VoIP Supply is hosting an Open House event on May 25th at their office. This is an incredible opportunity for you and your business. It doesn’t matter if you are an existing VoIP users or VoIP beginners. Come visit VoIP Supply, one of the Best Places to Work in WNY, and learn how VoIP can save you a fortune. Register here today!

Grand Prize is a Polycom RealPresence Trio Conference Phone valued at $1,199! Must RSVP and be present at the event to win.

Event Information

Date: Wednesday, May 25th, 2016
Time: 5:30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: VoIP Supply | 80 Pineview Drive, Amherst, NY, 14228
This event is free and open to public. Light appetizers and drinks will be served.

Bring Your Phone Bill For A Free Consultation

We would like to give you a free consultation based on the phone bill you bring to us and evaluate how much you can save for you. On average, our VoIP specialists can save customers 23% off their monthly bill. So, what are you waiting for? Prepare your phone bill and register now!

What Else Can I Expect From The Open House Event?

Here we provide a list of the things you can expect from the Open House event. You are welcome to participate the parts that interest you.

Free VoIP Consultation
30 -minute Presentation: VoIP Introduction
VoIP Supply Office and Laboratory Tour
Try out Popular VoIP Equipment
Polycom Giveaways
Delicious Foods and Drinks
Network with VoIP Supply Staff
Register and Present to Win Polycom RealPresence Trio Worth $1,199!

If you are interested in attending VoIP Supply Open House event, please fill the form below to register. We look forward to meeting with you!

This event is sponsored by Polycom.

Switching From Your Old Phone System to a New VoIP System

by Jeff Quinn

Are you interested in making the move to a new VoIP phone system? Do you want to get rid of those clunky old telephone lines running in and out of your building? There is no time like the present!

Save Money and Increase Workplace Efficiency with VoIP

Change within a business can be met with some resistance from fellow employees and co-workers. Current VoIP providers understand that and have created very easy to use interfaces for customers. Not only does the user experience a seamless transition over from the old phone system, but the installer or IT personnel of the office will also.

Features of a VoIP System are endless

One great feature of switching to a VoIP phone system, is that you don’t have to do it all at once, you have the option to switch portions of your phone system to VoIP.. You can then have a real trial period with VoIP to see if it’s the right choice for you.

Interested in other reasons to switch to VoIP, check out the article 7 Reasons to Switch to VoIP Service.

With a VoIP System you have choices

When switching to VoIP you have the options of two types of systems, On-Site or Hosted.

One of the main differences between the two options is that with an On-Site phone system you will need someone or a team dedicated to taking care of your VoIP phone system. All the hardware needed will be in the building with the employees. The Hosted system option allows the business to focus on their expertise while someone is taking care of any necessary issues off-site.

Interested in learning more of the Key Features of Hosted and On-Site Phone Systems?

When The Power Goes Out, Does The VoIP Network Stay Up?

April 22, 2016 by Ying-Hui Chen

A common question we often hear from our customers is whether the VoIP network stays up when the power is down. My quick answer is no, unless you have another backup plan. But don’t panic! As long as you are well-prepared, your VoIP phones can be as reliable as landlines.

Acting like the heart of VoIP phones, VoIP network is no doubt an indispensable element for making VoIP calls. Here’s a list of solutions that will help tackle the power outage issue.

Solution 1: Prepare softphones on Battery-Powered Devices

The world has gone mobile. Most of our laptops, cell phones, and tablets run on their battery power. VoIP phones on those mobile devices will still work fine without AC power when you experience power outage.

Solution 2: Get The Backup Power Supplies (UPS) Ready For All The Required Elements

POWER Make sure you have backup power supplies to support your VoIP network when the power is out. The required elements of a VoIP network that need a power supply include LAN switches, routers, firewalls, and other connection devices. With the proper backup power supplies, you will stay connected to the Internet even during a power outage. Usually these two backup plans are sufficient enough to avoid a VoIP network interruption. However, if your internet service provider experiences a power outage, then none of your VoIP phones will work, even with the additional power supply. In this situation, you can only make calls using a standard landline.

Solution 3: Keep Your Landline Service Available

Calls can still be placed over landline when the power is down. Landlines pull power through phone lines so they can work without extra electricity.

What is your solution for the VoIP network when the power goes out? Do you have more questions waiting for answers? Please utilize the comment box below or give us a call today at 1-800-398-8647 or email at [email protected] We will be excited to hear what you have to share!

Elastix with the Renegade- A Powerful Solution

by Youleidy Vega

If you are interested in a powerful solution for your business read on for a great option. If you landed on this page by accident as you browsed through the endless pages of the Internet, then you are in luck, and this just might be a match made in heaven- by VoIP Supply that is.

The Renegade, VoIP Supply’s line of fully scalable IP PBX Appliances, was released in 2015 and has been designed in three different models: mini, 1U, and 3U chassis, to complement the needs of any user. The Renegade is a full featured IP PBX that integrates well with many open source platforms, one of them being Elastix– a free Asterisk-based PBX platform.

Elastix is free to operate and update, has no recurring licensing fees and allows for unlimited users. Combining the Renegade with Elastix offers many benefits to the end user, some of which include call features, advanced reporting, and an easy to navigate web-based interface (GUI). Features of Elastix include email, instant messaging, fax, and video conferencing.

The Elastix open source PBX platform can be combined with all three Renegade appliances, each meeting different needs depending on the size of the business.

Check out all three options below to find the best solution for your needs. As always, if you have any questions, or are interested to find out more about the Renegade or anything VoIP, feel free to give us a call at 1-800-398-VoIP.

Renegade mini with Elastix | Renegade 1U with Elastix | RenegadePBX Pro with Elastix

renegate mini pro