How to Buy a Phone Number Online?

Online phone numbers are cloud-based phone numbers that use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to receive and make calls and messages. These numbers aren’t tied to a specific device or physical location, making it easy to use on smartphones, tablets, or computers through an internet connection from any location.

Online numbers are popular for businesses, remote workers, and individuals managing business calls from different locations. These numbers often come with additional business communication features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and multiple extensions.

Online number allows you to access calls from anywhere via the Internet, typically at a lower rate than traditional phone lines (SIM-based or landlines). 

Online phone numbers are more affordable compared to traditional phone lines. It allows you to make international calls at lower costs, helping you save on communication expenses. Additionally, there are no extra costs for hardware or maintenance since everything runs through the internet.

With online virtual phone numbers, you can choose area codes from specific cities or countries. This makes it easier to create a local presence for a business in a specific location, even if you operate from a different region.

Online phone numbers often come with various features, such as call forwarding, voicemail, call recording, and auto-attendant. With these features, you can manage the calls more efficiently, providing more flexibility than the traditional phone lines.

An online phone number is a secure and convenient option for verifying accounts on websites, apps, or services. It keeps your number private, reducing the risk of spam or security breaches.

The top virtual telephone number providers include Calilio, RingCentral, CloudTalk, Nextiva, and Google Voice.

Calilio is an affordable platform that offers a wide range of virtual number options. It offers an online telephone number from more than 100 countries. Moreover, its virtual numbers come with features like call routing, AI call summary, and voicemail management.

Caliilio is ideal for all business sizes - small, medium, and large. The setup process is simple, too.
 

RingCentral is a comprehensive communication solution that offers virtual numbers alongside VoIP services. It is well-suited for enterprises requiring business communication features like video conferencing, team messaging, and advanced call analytics. The platform also offers toll-free numbers alongside local virtual numbers in multiple countries, helping businesses expand their reach worldwide.
 

CloudTalk specializes in virtual numbers designed for customer support teams. It offers features like call tagging, smart routing, and real-time call monitoring, which improve team efficiency. You can choose from different types of numbers - local, international, or toll-free numbers.
 

Nextiva provides virtual numbers with its unified phone system. It is a reliable option for businesses with scalability and advanced features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and detailed call analytics. The platform is particularly known for its 24/7 customer support and high-quality call services.
 

Google Voice, the popular online communication platform, also offers a virtual phone number. You can get an online number from the U.S. including the features like voicemail, call forwarding, and text messaging. The platform is easy to set up and integrates seamlessly with other Google Workspace apps.
 

To buy an online virtual phone number, select the VoIP provider, sign up, select a plan, and purchase the number.

Explore the process in detail here:
 

• Step 1: Select the Provider
  Choose a reputable and trusted provider that meets your requirements.
• Step 2: Sign up
  Sign up and create an account with your chosen provider. For a sign-up, you have to provide details, such as your name, email, or mobile number.
• Step 3: Choose the number and Purchase
  Choose your desired number; consider factors like country code, area code, or unique sequence of numbers. After that, buy your virtual number using the available payment options.
• Step 4: Activate your virtual number
  After purchasing, you need to activate the number using Gmail. Your provider often sends a link or OTP to activate your number. Enter the OTP or click on the link to activate your number.
• Step 5: Start Using
  Once activated, you can instantly make a virtual call.

• Pricing: Compare the price with different telephony providers and choose the one that suits your budget. Also, look for hidden charges, like setup fees or extra costs for features. A low price might seem appealing, but it’s important to understand exactly what’s included to avoid surprises later.
• Features: Think about the features you need. For example, do you require call forwarding, voicemail, or SMS capabilities? Not all the providers offer the same feature. So, select the provider that meets your specific needs.
• Global Coverage: If you need a number that works internationally, check the provider's global reach. Ensure they support the countries where you or your customers will use the number.
• Security: Online phone numbers can be vulnerable to fraud or hacking. So, always choose a provider with strong security measures, like two-factor authentication and data encryption. This helps protect your number from unauthorized access.

Buying an online phone number with providers is a quick process. They’re not only easy to get but save your costs on setup, maintenance, and long-distance calls, compared to traditional phone systems.

If you are ready to start, consider Calilio. We offer different types of online numbers (mobile, local, and toll-free) from different countries. Sign Up today!

Yes, you can purchase a phone number online from Calilio. Simply register your account on Calilio and choose your plan to purchase a number.

While most virtual phone numbers operate on a subscription basis, some providers may offer long-term or lifetime plans. However, "permanent" ownership depends on maintaining an active subscription with the provider.

Yes, VoIP services like Google Voice offer free virtual phone numbers for the USA with basic features.