Level 3 VoIPIf you’ve been keeping up with the latest VoIP technology, you may have heard of Level 3 VoIP. But what is it, and what sets it apart from other solutions?

What Exactly Is a Level 3 Number?

It’s a virtual telephone number that is routed through Voice over IP (VoIP) instead of the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). It’s mainly catered to voice portals, call center operators and conferencing providers to reduce their costs.
Level 3 was an American telecommunications company that was later acquired by CenturyLink in 2004. It introduced a service for call center operators and conferencing providers to make toll-free calls in the US using VoIP.

How Do These Calls Work?

When a customer dials your number, the company’s softswitch is used to convert toll-free voice calls from traditional telephone networks into IP traffic. This traffic is then transported over Level 3’s Multiprotocol Label Switched (MPLS) IP network. When your agent speaks, the signals are converted back into a format that can be understood by PSTN and are routed to the intended recipient.

Benefits of the Level 3 Service

Companies need to stay up-to-date with customers’ preferred communication method and speaking in real-time to agents is expected. Hence, acquiring the Level 3 service will save you in many ways.
Here are four benefits of jumping on this service:

1. Cost-Effective

It’s a cost-effective solution for businesses that use a high-speed internet connection to route calls. As a result, it entirely eliminates the need for costly long-distance phone lines and saves a significant amount of money on their monthly bill. It also reduces the cost of investing in high-priced hardware and equipment.

2. Improved Call Quality

Any business that uses VoIP knows that call quality can be a major issue. Even with the best internet connection, people may still sound jittery, as well as experience interruptions and echo when on a call. Level 3 VoIP offers several advantages when it comes to quality:

  • Higher quality codecs results in increased bandwidth, which means that more data can be transferred per second.
  • The routing is done over a high-quality network resulting in crystal clear call quality.
  • Echo cancellation makes for a better overall experience.

That’s why it’s the best choice for those who are looking for a reliable and affordable option for business telephony compatible with most industry standards.

3. Access to Advanced Features

VoIP offers a variety of advanced features that can benefit businesses of all sizes. Call forwarding, caller ID, and voicemail are just a few of the options that can make it easier for businesses to stay organized and connected.
With end-to-end QoS standards, your call will be given priority over other traffic on the network. This ensures that you will always sound clear and sharp, even during peak traffic periods. In addition, you also get enhanced 911 service ensuring that when you make an emergency call, it’s always routed to the closest available 911 center.

4. Flexibility

Partnering with Level 3 providers offers unmatched flexibility for businesses. You can keep your existing numbers, choose from a variety of long-distance calling plans, and get features that fit your needs. For example, businesses can choose to have their voicemails emailed to them, or forwarded to another number.
Neither does Level 3 VoIP require new telephone lines or purchasing any dedicated hardware. You can make a call from your computers, mobile phones or other VoIP-enabled devices, meaning you’re not tied to a desk.

Successful Transition To Level 3

So you’re finally ready to transition? There are 2 important steps to follow to successfully upgrade your business communication:

Step 1 – Switch to a Level 3 VoIP Service

This can be a bit of a process, so be sure to do your research because it’s only available from certain carriers. VoIP-Security.Net.org is a great resource for finding providers and comparing features. Once you’ve found a service that meets your needs, sign up for an account and install the software.

Step 2 – Configure Your Settings on Computers and Mobile Devices

This will vary depending on your provider, but in general, you’ll need to enter your account information and select a few preferences. For instance, you’ll need to choose which calls will be routed over the MPLS network and which will use your traditional phone line. Once you’ve completed the above steps, you’re ready to start calling!

Final Words

Level 3 numbers use a high-speed internet connection, which eliminates the need for costly long-distance phone lines. Consequently, businesses that switch can save a significant amount of money on their telephony costs. This post has explained some of the basics about how it works and what benefits it can offer, you can find more details about similar systems and other communication setups at VoIP-Security.Net.org.

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