VoIP pricing looks different from an old phone bill, and a couple of terms trip people up — mainly "endpoint" and "setup fee." Once you know what they mean, sizing the right plan is straightforward.
What is an "endpoint"?
An endpoint is a single device or app registration on your phone system. Each of these counts as one endpoint:
- A mobile app on someone's phone
- A desktop app on a computer
- A physical desk phone
- An ATA connecting an analog phone
Plans include a set number of endpoints. If a plan includes three endpoints, you can have three registered devices or apps in active use — for example, two desk phones and one mobile app. Need more? Additional endpoints can be added based on how you operate.
Rule of thumb: count the phones and apps that need to ring or make calls, not the number of people. One person with a desk phone and a mobile app is two endpoints.
Why is there a setup fee?
A one-time setup fee covers the managed part of getting started: designing your call flow, configuring extensions and routing, provisioning devices, and getting everything working before go-live. It's the difference between being handed a login and being handed a working phone system. Setup fees scale with complexity — a single home line is a small fee; a multi-endpoint commercial system with emergency routing is more.
What does "unlimited" actually mean?
For most plans, unlimited calling refers to standard business calling within the US and Canada. International calling is usually billed separately at per-minute rates, and bundles can be added if you call abroad often. "Unlimited" is about normal day-to-day usage, not a loophole for, say, running a call center off a home plan.
What drives the monthly price?
Three things, mostly:
- Number of endpoints — more devices and apps, higher tier.
- Features you need — SMS, call queues, recording, and advanced or emergency routing sit on higher plans.
- Segment — residential, small business, and commercial plans are shaped for different needs.
How to size a plan without overpaying
- Count real endpoints, not headcount — some people only need an app.
- List your must-have features (texting? queues? recording? emergency routing?) and match the lowest tier that includes them.
- Plan a little headroom if you're growing, but remember endpoints can be added later.
- Ask for help. A managed provider will right-size it for you rather than sell you the biggest plan.
Want the numbers for your exact situation? See the full plan lineup — from HomeLine to OfficeConnect — or request a quote and we'll size it with you.