What is Wi-Fi Calling?
Have you ever found yourself in a spot where your mobile signal is weak, but you urgently need to make a call?
Thanks to Wi-Fi calling, also known as VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi), you no longer need to worry.
This innovative feature allows you to make and receive calls using a Wi-Fi network, ensuring seamless connectivity even in areas with poor network coverage.
From enhancing call quality to potentially reducing your data plan usage, Wi-Fi calling is a game-changer in how we connect. Let’s dive into the details and explore how this technology works, its safety, and when you should use it.
What Is Wi-Fi Calling?
Wi-Fi calling is a technology that enables voice calls and text messages over a Wi-Fi network instead of the traditional mobile network. This feature is particularly useful in areas where cellular signals are weak or unavailable. By connecting to a Wi-Fi network, your smartphone can seamlessly switch from using the mobile network to Internet telephony, allowing you to continue your conversations without interruption.
This service doesn’t require additional apps — it’s integrated into many modern smartphones and supported by various carriers. Whether you’re at home, in a remote office, or anywhere with a stable Wi-Fi connection, Wi-Fi calling ensures that you stay connected, offering improved indoor call quality and reliability.
How Much Does Wi-Fi Calling Cost?
One of the most appealing aspects of Wi-Fi calling is its cost-effectiveness. In many cases, using Wi-Fi to make and receive calls does not incur additional charges beyond your usual data plan. When you use Wi-Fi calling, the minutes and texts are typically deducted from your regular plan as if using the mobile network. This means that there are no extra fees for the Wi-Fi service itself.
However, it is important to check with your carrier for specific details, as policies can vary. Some carriers might offer Wi-Fi calling as a standard feature of your plan, while others may have specific conditions or exceptions, especially for international calls.
In general, if you are connected to your home or office Wi-Fi, you can enjoy the benefits of this feature without worrying about extra costs, leading to significant cost savings, particularly for international communications.
Best WiFi VoIP Providers
Sign up & cancel for free
Enterprise-class features 
Try for free
Cloud system with simple set-up 
Unlimited calling in the US & Canada
First month free 
14-day free trial
24/7 customer support by phone 
Flexible communications options
Setup and switching is simple 
First month free
World-class customer support How Does Wi-Fi Calling Work?
Wi-Fi calling leverages your Wi-Fi connection to facilitate voice calls and text messages when the cellular network is unavailable or unreliable. This smooth and automatic process enhances your communication experience without requiring manual intervention.
By using Wi-Fi calling, you benefit from improved call quality, especially in indoor environments where walls and structures often interfere with cellular signals. Plus, it allows for continued communication in areas completely devoid of cellular coverage as long as you have access to a Wi-Fi network.
Here’s how it works:
-
Network Switching
When you enable Wi-Fi calling on your smartphone, the device constantly monitors the strength of your cellular signal. If the signal weakens or drops, the phone seamlessly switches to a Wi-Fi network to maintain connectivity. -
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
Unlike traditional calls that use cellular networks, Wi-Fi calling uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to convert your voice into digital signals. These signals are then transmitted over the internet through your Wi-Fi connection. -
Integration with Carrier Systems
The digital signals are sent to your carrier’s system, which processes them just like any other call. This ensures that your call can connect to any phone number, regardless of whether the recipient uses Wi-Fi calling. -
Seamless Experience
To the user, this transition is transparent. You dial a number or send a message as usual, and your phone decides the best route (cellular or Wi-Fi) based on the available network quality.
How Fast Does Wi-Fi Connection Need to Be to Make a Wi-Fi Call?
This is also something to factor in when understand how Wi-Fi calls works:
- For a stable Wi-Fi call, a minimum internet speed of around 1 Mbps is generally sufficient.
- However, for optimal call quality, especially if multiple devices are using the network simultaneously, a faster connection of 3-5 Mbps is recommended.
Should Wi-Fi Calling Be On or Off?
This depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Adjusting this setting based on your location and connectivity can optimize your call quality and security.
- Turn Wi-Fi calling on: If you frequently experience weak cellular signals, especially indoors, or want to save on data usage and avoid roaming charges while traveling. It ensures you stay connected even in areas with poor mobile network coverage.
- Turn Wi-Fi calling off: If you’re on a very stable and strong cellular network or if you have concerns about using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks —- these can pose security risks.
Wi-Fi Calling vs. VoIP: What’s the Difference?
While both Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Wi-Fi calling enable calls over the Internet, they have distinct characteristics and uses. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right solution for your needs.
Wi-Fi calling is more integrated with your mobile experience and carrier, whereas VoIP offers more flexibility and features across different platforms and devices.
| Wi-Fi calling | VoIP | |
| Technology Base | This specific type of VoIP works exclusively over Wi-Fi networks and is integrated into your smartphone’s dialer. It does not require any additional apps and is supported directly by mobile carriers. | VoIP is a broad technology that enables voice communication over any internet connection, including both wired and wireless networks. It can be used with various devices, such as computers, VoIP phones, and smartphones, through applications like Vonage, Zoom, or RingCentral. |
| Usage & Compatibility | Built into your phone and activates automatically when cellular signals are weak or unavailable. Designed to seamlessly transition between cellular and Wi-Fi networks without user intervention. | To use VoIP, you typically need to install an app or software and may need to set up an account. It works on many devices and offers video calls, text messaging, and file-sharing features. |
| Quality & Reliability | Since this is supported by carriers, it often has robust quality control and optimization for voice calls. However, its performance is also influenced by the Wi-Fi network’s strength and stability. | The quality of VoIP calls depends on the app and the internet connection. Some services offer high-definition voice and video, but their reliability can vary based on network congestion and internet speed. |
| Cost & Carrier Support | Generally included in your phone plan at no additional cost, and calls are usually billed as if you were using your cellular network, which can be advantageous for avoiding international charges. | Many VoIP services are free or have minimal costs, especially for app-to-app calls. International calls to landlines or non-app users typically incur charges but are often cheaper than traditional phone rates. |
| Emergency Services | Most carriers have mechanisms to support emergency calls and provide location information, although this can be less accurate than cellular calls. | Not all VoIP services support emergency calling, and those that do might not provide accurate location information to responders. |
Is Wi-Fi Calling Safe?
Safety and security are common concerns about Wi-Fi calling. The good news is that Wi-Fi calling is generally considered safe, as it incorporates several layers of security to protect your communications.
Remember the good old days when call centers connected our calls, and anyone could eavesdrop like it was their favorite soap opera? We’ve come a long way!
While Wi-Fi calling is safe for everyday use, maintaining good cybersecurity practices—like using secure and trusted Wi-Fi networks and keeping your device updated—enhances your protection while using it.
Here’s how it works:
-
Encryption
Wi-Fi calling uses robust encryption protocols to secure your voice and text data. This means that when your voice is converted into digital signals and transmitted over Wi-Fi, these signals are encrypted, preventing unauthorized access or eavesdropping. -
Carrier-Level Security
Since the calls and messages are processed through your carrier’s system, they benefit from the same security measures that protect traditional cellular calls. Carriers implement industry-standard security practices to safeguard your communication. -
Secure Wi-Fi Networks
The safety of Wi-Fi calling also depends on the security of the Wi-Fi network you are using. Public Wi-Fi networks can be less secure than private ones, making it essential to ensure you connect to trusted Wi-Fi networks when using this feature. -
Leveraging VPNs
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can significantly enhance Wi-Fi calling security by encrypting data, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept calls, especially on public or insecure Wi-Fi networks. Companies like Express VPN and Surfshark ensure private and secure communications. -
Regular Updates
Smartphone manufacturers and carriers frequently update their systems to address any security vulnerabilities. Keeping your device’s software and apps up to date is crucial for maintaining the security of Wi-Fi calling. -
Emergency Services
Wi-Fi calling can also support calls to emergency services, and most carriers have mechanisms to provide your location to emergency responders. However, this can sometimes be less precise than with cellular calls.
Does Wi-Fi Calling Use Data?
A common question about Wi-Fi calling is whether it consumes data from your mobile data plan. The answer is reassuring for users concerned about data usage.
When you use Wi-Fi calling, the calls and texts are transmitted over a Wi-Fi network, not your cellular network. Therefore, this usage does not count against your mobile data plan. Instead, it uses the data bandwidth of the Wi-Fi connection you are connected to. If you use a home, office, or public Wi-Fi, any data used for Wi-Fi calling is part of that network’s data consumption.
Wi-Fi calling is an excellent way to save on mobile data usage while ensuring high-quality communication, especially in areas with limited cellular coverage.
However, it’s important to note a few points:
-
Wi-Fi Network Data
While Wi-Fi calling doesn’t use your mobile data, it does consume data from the Wi-Fi network to which you’re connected. This is usually not a concern for most home and office networks due to typically generous or unlimited data allowances. -
Data Usage
Wi-Fi calling uses relatively little data. A typical voice call might use about 1MB of data per minute, while a video call will use significantly more, depending on the quality and other factors. -
Carrier Policies
Always check with your carrier to understand their specific policies regarding Wi-Fi calling. Some carriers might have different guidelines or may offer Wi-Fi calling as part of specific service plans.
Can I Use Wi-Fi Calling Overseas?
Wi-Fi calling is an excellent feature for travelers. It allows you to stay connected even when you’re overseas without incurring hefty roaming charges.
It’s a cost-effective and convenient way to communicate when traveling abroad, as long as you prepare by checking your carrier’s policies and ensuring access to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
Here’s how you can leverage Wi-Fi calling while abroad:
-
Avoid Roaming Charges
One of the biggest advantages of Wi-Fi calling overseas is making and receiving calls to and from your home country without the usual international roaming fees. Depending on your carrier’s policies, calls are often treated as if you were making them within your home country. -
Carrier Support
Before you travel, check with your carrier to ensure that Wi-Fi calling is supported internationally and whether there are any specific restrictions or conditions. Some carriers enable Wi-Fi calling by default for international use, while others may require you to activate the feature. -
Network Accessibility
You can use Wi-Fi calling as long as you have access to a stable Wi-Fi connection. This is particularly beneficial in areas with poor cellular network coverage or where international roaming is not available. -
Quality and Reliability
The quality of Wi-Fi calling overseas largely depends on the Wi-Fi network’s speed and stability. Ensure you connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network to enjoy uninterrupted calls. -
Emergency Service
Be aware that using Wi-Fi calling overseas may not support calls to local emergency services in the country you are visiting. It’s important to know the local emergency numbers and have an alternative means of communication for emergencies.
Advantages of Wi-Fi Calling for Businesses
Wi-Fi calling offers key benefits for businesses, enhancing communication while reducing costs. Here’s a concise overview:
-
Cost Savings
Reduces telecommunication costs by using Wi-Fi networks instead of traditional phone lines and mobile plans. It also lowers international calling fees, as calls are often treated as local. -
Improved Connectivity
Ensures consistent communication in areas with poor cellular coverage, such as remote locations or buildings with thick walls, by switching to Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity. -
Flexible Mobility
Supports modern work environments like remote work and hot-desking by allowing employees to maintain high-quality voice communication from anywhere. -
Enhanced Productivity
Facilitates quicker collaboration and efficient information sharing, minimizing delays and improving workflow with reliable communication. -
Single Phone Number
Simplifies contact management by allowing employees to use the same work phone number across different devices and locations, ensuring no important calls are missed.
How Businesses Can Implement Wi-Fi Calling
Implementing Wi-Fi calling in a business environment can streamline communication and enhance operational efficiency while maintaining a high communication standard. Here’s how businesses can effectively introduce and optimize Wi-Fi calling:
-
Assess Network Infrastructure
Ensure the business Wi-Fi network is robust and secure. This involves checking for sufficient bandwidth, reliable coverage throughout the workspace, and strong security measures to protect communications. -
Upgrade Hardware if Necessary
Verify that employees’ smartphones and other devices support Wi-Fi calling. Older models may need upgrading or configuring to enable this feature. -
Work with Your Carrier
Coordinate with your mobile carrier to understand their Wi-Fi calling capabilities and any specific requirements or settings needed for seamless integration. -
Leverage IT Services
If you need extra support, IT Service Management (ITSM) software can aid in setting up Wi-Fi calling by centralizing control, optimizing network performance, and ensuring secure, reliable connections for enhanced call quality. -
Educate Employees
Train employees on how to enable and use Wi-Fi calling. This includes understanding when and how to switch between Wi-Fi and cellular networks for optimal call quality. -
Set Policies and Guidelines
Establish clear policies on Wi-Fi calling usage, especially for sensitive or confidential communications. Also, define acceptable use while connected to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. -
Monitor and Adjust
Assess Wi-Fi calling performance and usage regularly to ensure it meets business needs. Adjust settings, network resources, or training as necessary to maintain high call quality and reliability.
Best Practices for Effective Wi-Fi Calling
To ensure Wi-Fi calling is efficient and reliable, here are best practices businesses should follow:
-
Choose the Right Router
Select a router that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards and offers sufficient bandwidth and range for your business needs. -
Optimize Your Wi-Fi Network
Arrange access points strategically to eliminate dead zones and use tools to analyze and optimize Wi-Fi channel utilization. -
Check Your Internet Speed
Ensure your internet connection provides enough bandwidth for high-quality voice calls, ideally with minimal latency and jitter. -
Update Your Devices
Regularly update smartphones and other devices to the latest firmware or software versions to support optimal Wi-Fi calling functionality. -
Limit Interference
Identify and reduce sources of electromagnetic interference, such as microwaves or other wireless devices, that can affect Wi-Fi signal quality. -
Verify Wi-Fi calling Preferences
Configure device settings to prioritize Wi-Fi calling and ensure a seamless transition between Wi-Fi and cellular networks. -
Test Network Reliability
Regularly test the Wi-Fi network under various conditions to ensure consistent call quality and adjust settings or infrastructure as needed.
Challenges & Solutions for Wi-Fi Calling
While Wi-Fi calling offers many benefits, businesses may encounter certain challenges when implementing this technology. Here are some common issues and their solutions.
| Challenge | Solution | |
| Inconsistent Wi-Fi Coverage | Spotty or weak Wi-Fi signals can lead to poor call quality or dropped calls. | Enhance Wi-Fi infrastructure by adding access points or using Wi-Fi extenders to ensure strong and consistent coverage throughout the workplace. |
| Network Security Risks | Using Wi-Fi networks, especially public or unsecured ones, can expose calls to security vulnerabilities. | Implement robust security protocols like WPA3 encryption, use VPNs for secure connections, and educate employees on the risks of public Wi-Fi. |
| Compatibility Issues | Not all devices may support Wi-Fi calling or may require specific settings. | Ensure all devices are compatible with Wi-Fi calling and provide technical support or guidance for setting up and troubleshooting. |
| Emergency Call Limitations | Wi-Fi calling may not accurately convey location information to emergency services. | Educate employees on these limitations and encourage the use of alternative methods for emergency calls when necessary. |
| Network Congestion | High traffic on the Wi-Fi network can degrade call quality. | Prioritize voice traffic on the network using Quality of Service (QoS) settings and monitor network usage to manage bandwidth effectively. |
By addressing these challenges with strategic solutions, businesses can maximize the advantages of Wi-Fi calling and ensure a reliable, secure communication system.
Again, if you need some extra support setting this up, you can always turn to IT Service management software like SysAid or Freshservice.
Final Thoughts
Wi-Fi calling is a convenient and transformative tool that enhances communication, especially in today’s fast-paced and globally connected world.
By embracing this technology, businesses and individuals can overcome traditional barriers to connectivity, ensure high-quality calls, and enjoy significant cost savings.
Whether at home, in the office, or traveling abroad, Wi-Fi calling is a reliable companion that keeps you connected when you need it most. So, take full advantage of this innovative feature and experience seamless communication like never before.
FAQs
Q: What is Wi-Fi calling?
A: Wi-Fi calling allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using a cellular network, improving call quality in areas with weak cellular signals.
Q: Does Wi-Fi calling cost extra?
A: Generally, Wi-Fi calling doesn’t incur additional charges; calls are usually deducted from your regular plan as if you were using the mobile network.
Q: Is Wi-Fi calling safe to use?
A: Yes, Wi-Fi calling is safe as it uses robust encryption protocols and benefits from the security measures implemented by your carrier and smartphone.
Q: Can I use Wi-Fi calling internationally?
A: Yes, you can use Wi-Fi calling internationally to avoid roaming fees, but check with your carrier for any specific conditions or restrictions.
