What Equipment Is Needed for VoIP in Canada (2025 Guide)?

Intro

Thinking about switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)? One of the most common questions people ask is: “What equipment do I actually need to use VoIP at home?”

The answer is simpler than you might think. With the right internet connection and a few pieces of hardware, you can enjoy reliable, crystal-clear phone service at a fraction of the cost of a traditional landline.

In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between VoIP and landlines (PSTN), list the essential equipment you’ll need, and show you how NetJOI makes setup effortless with pre-configured adapters.

PSTN vs VoIP: The Quick Comparison

PSTN has been around for over a century, but VoIP is the future. With today’s internet speeds, VoIP call quality is on par with, or better than, landlines, while delivering major cost savings and flexibility.

Essential Equipment for VoIP

To use VoIP at home, you’ll need:

1. A Reliable Internet Connection
   – At least 1 Mbps upload/download per call is recommended for stable voice quality.
   – For households with multiple calls/devices, higher bandwidth is better.
2. VoIP-Compatible Device
   • VoIP Phones: Special phones designed for VoIP (e.g., Ooma phones).
   • Computers with Softphone Software: Apps that let you call through your laptop/desktop.
   • Smartphones/Tablets with VoIP Apps: Services like Skype or apps from your provider.
   • Traditional Phones with an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter): The simplest way to use your current phone with VoIP.
3. An ATA Adapter (if using your existing phone)
   – Converts analog phone signals into digital signals for VoIP.
   – Small, affordable, and easy to set up.

What’s an ATA Adapter and How Does It Work?

An Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) bridges the gap between your traditional phone and the digital world of VoIP. It allows you to keep using your old handset while still getting the benefits of modern internet-based calling. The ATA Adapter converts traditional analog phone signals into digital signals that can be transmitted over the internet, allowing your old phone (landline) to make VoIP calls.

How it works:

• Converts analog signals → digital packets → sends them over your internet.
• Plugs into your router/modem and your existing home phone.
• Provides access to all VoIP features like voicemail, call forwarding, and caller ID.

Setting Up an ATA Adapter

Here are the generic steps to set up an ATA:

1. Connect the ATA to your router
   – Use an Ethernet cable to connect the ATA to an available port on your router.
2. Attach your phone
   – Plug your analog phone into the port labeled “Phone” on the ATA.
3. Power it on
   – Connect the ATA to a power outlet. After a short boot-up, the device configures itself automatically or via a web interface (depending on the model).

Once connected, your old phone is now VoIP-ready.

What Equipment Is Needed for NetJOI VoIP?

NetJOI makes the process even easier. Our VoIP service supports a range of ATA devices, including:

• Grandstream HT802
• Grandstream HT701
• Grandstream HT702
• Grandstream HT704
• Linksys PAP2T
• Cisco SPA122
• Cisco SPA2102

The NetJOI difference:

• ATAs purchased directly from NetJOI come pre-configured.
• Simply plug in power, connect your router, attach your phone and you’re ready to make calls.
• No technical setup required.

This is a key advantage of ordering equipment from NetJOI versus buying generic hardware as your adapter arrives ready to go, and our team is here if you need support.

Internet Speed Requirements for VoIP

• Minimum: 1 Mbps upload/download per active call.
• Recommended: 5 Mbps+ if you’re running multiple calls, streaming video, or gaming at the same time.
• Tip: For the best reliability, use a wired Ethernet connection between your ATA/router.

FAQs About VoIP Equipment

Do I need a special phone for VoIP?
No. With an ATA adapter, you can use your existing home phone. VoIP phones are optional but not required.

Can I keep my phone number?
Yes. NetJOI supports number porting, so you don’t lose your old number when you switch.

What happens if my internet goes down?
Your VoIP phone won’t work without internet, but you can use a UPS (battery backup) to stay online during short outages.

Do I need to buy equipment from NetJOI?
No, but buying from NetJOI ensures your ATA is pre-configured and ready to use. If you buy elsewhere, setup may be more technical.

How hard is it to set up VoIP at home?
With NetJOI’s pre-configured adapters, it’s plug-and-play. Setup takes just a few minutes.

Conclusion

VoIP doesn’t require complicated or expensive hardware. With a reliable internet connection, your existing phone, and a simple ATA adapter, you can switch to digital phone service quickly and affordably.

For NetJOI customers, the process is even easier. Our ATA devices arrive pre-configured, just plug them in and start making calls.

If you’re ready to save money and modernize your home phone, VoIP is the answer.

• Want to see which provider gives you the best features and value? Check out our full comparison of the best VoIP providers in Canada.
• Curious how much you can save? Learn how cheap VoIP home phone plans in Canada can cut costs by 30 – 50%.
• Ready to get started? Explore NetJOI’s VoIP plans today.