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What a VoIP number is
A VoIP number is an ordinary phone number, with an area code, that rings over the internet instead of a copper landline. Callers dial it like any other number. Behind it, a VoIP provider routes the call to an app on your phone or computer, or to a desk phone plugged into the internet.
Federal rules separate two kinds of service. Interconnected VoIP is real-time two-way voice over a broadband connection from the user's location, using internet-compatible equipment, that can both receive calls from and place calls to the regular phone network (47 CFR 9.3). Cloud business phone systems with real phone numbers are interconnected VoIP. Non-interconnected VoIP is internet voice that lacks that two-way connection to the phone network (47 U.S.C. 153(36)), such as app-to-app calling.
Fixed and non-fixed VoIP numbers
| Type | What it means | 911 rule (47 CFR 9.11) |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Used at one location, such as an office desk phone | Must send an automated dispatchable location (a validated street address with suite or floor) with every 911 call |
| Non-fixed | Capable of being used from more than one location, such as a softphone app | Must send an automated dispatchable location if technically feasible; otherwise a registered location the customer can update, other location information, or routing to a national emergency call center |
Compliance dates in the rule: January 6, 2021 for fixed and January 6, 2022 for non-fixed service. Read October 29, 2026 in the eCFR.
What the law requires of VoIP providers
- 911 is a condition of service. Interconnected VoIP providers must provide enhanced 911 to every customer, and must warn customers about 911 limits (for example if the device moves or loses power or internet) and keep a record that each customer acknowledged it (47 CFR 9.11).
- Direct 911 dialing. Multi-line phone systems in offices must let users dial 911 without a prefix such as 9 (47 CFR 9.16).
- You can take your number with you. Interconnected VoIP providers must help customers port numbers to and from other carriers and VoIP providers, and may not sign agreements that block porting (47 CFR 52.34).
- Caller ID authentication. Voice service providers, which the rule defines to include interconnected VoIP, had to implement the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID framework in their IP networks by June 30, 2021, with later deadlines for small providers and other listed exceptions (47 CFR 64.6301, 64.6304).
- Where the numbers come from. Interconnected VoIP providers can get FCC authorization to request numbers directly from the numbering administrators (47 CFR 52.15(g)(3)).
VoIP number or landline number?
| VoIP number | Landline number | |
|---|---|---|
| Works on | Apps, computers and internet desk phones, anywhere with a connection | The phone line at one address |
| Moving offices | The number moves with you | Tied to the line at that address |
| Extra numbers and lines | Added in a dashboard | Each needs installation |
More on the trade-offs in VoIP vs landline. For how VoIP calling works, see what VoIP is.
How to get one
Sign up with a business phone provider and pick a local or toll-free number, or port the number you already have. Entry plans run from $10 to $30 a user a month; see the cheapest business phone service, virtual phone number providers or free business phone numbers.
Getting one: how to get a business phone number.
Frequently asked questions
What is a VoIP number?
A regular phone number that rings over the internet instead of a landline. It works in apps, on computers and on internet desk phones.
Can you call 911 from a VoIP number?
Yes. Federal rules require interconnected VoIP providers to provide enhanced 911 to every customer and to send location information with 911 calls (47 CFR 9.11). Providers must also warn customers about 911 limits, such as during a power or internet outage.
Can I keep my number if I switch to VoIP?
Yes. Interconnected VoIP providers must help customers port numbers to and from other carriers and VoIP providers (47 CFR 52.34).
What is the difference between fixed and non-fixed VoIP?
Fixed VoIP is used at one location. Non-fixed VoIP can be used from more than one location, such as a softphone app; the 911 location rules differ for each.
Is a VoIP number a virtual number?
Often, yes: a virtual business number is usually a VoIP number not tied to one phone line or device.