Internet calling

Internet calling means you place a voice call using an internet connection instead of a classic phone line. Many people also call it VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). If you want a deeper definition, see Voice over IP (VoIP).

Some internet calling tools only let you call people inside the same app. Others can also call regular phone numbers. That matters when you need to reach customers on mobile and landline numbers.

Internet calling vs Wi‑Fi calling

Wi‑Fi calling usually comes from your mobile carrier. It uses your normal phone app and your normal SIM number. It helps when mobile coverage is weak.

Internet calling apps work inside the app itself. For example, WhatsApp calling is great for calling other WhatsApp users. If you need to call standard phone numbers, tools like Google Voice are built for that.

Internet calling solves real problems for small teams. It also helps if you run a solo business or take calls as a private user.

It often helps when:

• You want to call from a computer
  while you work in a browser.
• You call internationally
  and want clearer cost control.
• You work remotely
  and need the same calling setup everywhere.
• You want a separate calling workflow
  from your personal SIM number.

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Call quality depends more on stability than raw speed. So, start simple and remove the most common risks.

Check these basics before an important call:

• Use stable Wi‑Fi,
  or use Ethernet when possible.
• Use a headset
  to reduce echo and noise.
• Close heavy downloads,
  cloud backups, and streaming apps.
• Test your microphone and speaker settings
  once per device.

Most internet calling issues have simple causes. If you fix the basics first, you usually fix the call.

No one can hear you

This usually comes from a muted microphone or missing permissions. It can also happen if the wrong input device is selected.

Try this:

• Check the app’s mute button
  and your headset mute.
• Confirm microphone permission
  on your device.
• Select the correct microphone
  in your audio settings.
• Restart the app
  if the microphone stays “stuck.”

The sound is choppy or delayed

This often happens when your network has jitter or congestion. Public Wi‑Fi can also cause this.

Try this:

• Move closer to the router
  or switch to 5 GHz Wi‑Fi.
• Pause other high-traffic apps
  during the call.
• Turn off VPN for the call,
  if you can.
• Use mobile data
  if the Wi‑Fi network is unstable.

You hear echo or strong background noise

Echo often happens when speakers feed sound back into the mic. Noise can make you sound less clear and less professional.

Try this:

• Use a headset
  instead of speakers.
• Lower speaker volume
  if you must use speakers.
• Move away from fans,
  windows, and busy rooms.
• Choose one quiet “call spot”
  for sales and support calls.

Sonetel lets you make calls from your computer or phone. You can call from the Sonetel mobile apps or from the Sonetel web app on your computer. The person you call answers like a normal call on their phone.

Sonetel also gives you different call options, so you can balance convenience and reliability. The easiest overview is Sonetel’s help guide on how to make calls.

Call from your computer with the Sonetel web app

Calling from a laptop helps when you work in e-commerce support, consulting, or SaaS onboarding. It also feels faster when you already work at your computer.

To make a call:

1. Sign in
   to the Sonetel web app.
2. Click the phone icon
   and enter a number, or pick a contact.
3. Choose the call option
   and start the call.

If you need the downloads, use Get the Sonetel apps.

Call from your phone with the Sonetel mobile apps

Mobile internet calling helps when you travel or work away from your desk. It also keeps the same workflow as on your computer.

To make a call:

1. Open the Sonetel app
   on iPhone or Android.
2. Tap the phone icon
   and choose a contact or type a number.
3. Pick the call option
   and start the call.

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Choose the best call method for each call

Some calls need maximum reliability. Others need speed and simplicity. Sonetel lets you choose.

A simple way to think about it:

• Internet:
  connects your call to Sonetel over Wi‑Fi or mobile data.
• Mobile call:
  uses a bridged setup for more dependable audio quality.

You can also set preferences inside your settings. See My call settings.

Speed up outbound calls with click‑to‑call

If you call leads from websites, directories, or web tools, manual copy-paste wastes time. Click‑to‑call can remove that friction.

Sonetel provides a callback tool for this workflow. See Click-to-call numbers on websites.

When you use Sonetel for internet calling, the receiver will by default see your regular mobile number. This is the number you used to verify your account.

If you prefer, you can also buy a Sonetel number and show that instead. This helps when you want a consistent caller ID for business calls. Sonetel explains the setup here: Show Sonetel phone numbers as caller ID.

Calls often end with next steps. However, details can slip when you take many calls. This can slow down sales and customer success work.

Sonetel includes AI tools in the Premium and Business plans, such as call summaries and customer call analysis. The Basic pay-as-you-go plan still supports calling, and you can start with a number from $1.79 per month.

To learn more:

• Call summaries
  
• Customer call analysis
  
• Compare plans

Different tools fit different needs. The best option depends on who you need to call and how you work.

Internet calling options compared

This table helps you pick the right type of solution.

Sonetel vs popular alternatives for internet calling

If your main goal is calling regular phone numbers, start with these basics.

Small habits prevent most call problems. They also help you sound more professional.

Before you call:

• Use a headset
  and confirm your microphone works.
• Use a stable network
  and avoid switching networks mid-call.
• Close heavy apps
  that use bandwidth.
• Decide what number you want to show
  as caller ID.

These questions come up often when people switch from classic calls to internet calls.

Can I use internet calling to call a landline or mobile number?

Yes, if your provider supports calling regular phone numbers. App-to-app calling tools do not work for that use case.

Does the other person need an app?

Not when you call their normal phone number through a VoIP provider. They answer like a regular call.

Can I do internet calling from a browser?

Yes, many providers offer web calling. With Sonetel, you can call from the web app on your computer.

Is internet calling secure?

It can be. Security depends on the provider and your network. Avoid unknown public Wi‑Fi for sensitive calls.

If you want a simple way to start internet calling, begin with the Sonetel apps and test a few calls on your own network.

Start here: Get the Sonetel apps and review pricing on Compare plans.

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