Our useful jargon buster explains what many telecoms terms mean, including broadband, hosted voice, mobile terms and more, helping you to choose the right products and services for your business.

Voice & VoIP

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
A phone system that makes and receives calls using your internet connection instead of traditional landlines. It works on mobiles, computers, or IP desk phones so you can take calls anywhere.

Digital Phone Line
A modern replacement for old phone lines that uses the internet to make calls. This is the future of business communication in the UK.

PSTN Switch-Off
BT is retiring the UK’s old copper phone network (PSTN) by 2027. Every business will need to switch to a digital line or VoIP service to keep making and receiving calls.

Call Management
Features like call forwarding, voicemail, hold, or transferring calls that let you control how your business handles incoming calls.

Broadband

SoGEA (Single Order Generic Ethernet Access)
Broadband that runs entirely through your internet connection without needing a phone line. It’s more reliable, simpler to manage, and ready for the PSTN switch-off.

Full Fibre (FTTP)
The fastest and most reliable type of broadband. Fibre cables run directly to your building, giving you lightning-fast upload and download speeds that are ideal for cloud tools, streaming, or multiple connected devices.

Bandwidth
The amount of data your internet can handle at once. More bandwidth means smoother video calls, faster downloads, and fewer slowdowns when several people are online.

Router
The box that connects your devices to the internet and acts as your broadband’s control hub.

Mobile & SIMs

SIM Only Deal
A mobile plan where you keep your existing phone and just pay for the SIM card. It’s often cheaper and more flexible for small businesses.

5G
The latest and fastest mobile network, offering quicker downloads, smoother streaming, and better connectivity in busy areas.

Data Allowance
The amount of mobile internet you get each month for emails, maps, social media, and browsing when you’re not on Wi-Fi.

Roaming
Using your mobile abroad. Business mobile plans often include better roaming rates than personal consumer plans.

Handsets

IP Phone
A desk phone that connects to the internet instead of a phone line. It’s perfect for VoIP calling.

Softphone
An app on your mobile or computer that works like a business phone. It lets you make and receive calls from your business number wherever you are.