You are currently viewing PSTN vs. VoIP – Which Technology Is Better and Why?

Whenever you have to choose between two options, whether for business or personal reasons, you must compare those two options thoroughly and then only make a choice. When it comes to implementing technology in your business, you should carefully compare the available options based on their features and benefits. Once you finish the analysis, you can choose the best prospect among the available. This article will help you understand PSTN and VoIP technologies and their comparison to choosing the best for your business.

The line between VoIP, or Voice over IP, and PSTN, or the Public Switched Telephone Network, is blurring since the age of copper lines is about to end soon, and telecommunications infrastructure becomes digital. However, the PSTN vs. VoIP debate continues as businesses evaluate migrating to IP-based telephony. Deciding on whether to stay on the PSTN or move to VoIP demands analyzing the technology behind these two telephony infrastructures and comparing features.


PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network)

Using dedicated copper lines, traditional PSTN services deliver voice traffic and circuit switching for connecting endpoints during phone calls. PSTN services are becoming increasingly digital since new last-mile infrastructure like fiber optic cables are replacing copper lines. PSTN providers, such as Verizon and AT&T, are also implementing technology, like SIP trunking (Session Initiation Protocol) and PRI (Primary Rate Interface), for delivering voice data.


VoIP (Voice over IP)

VoIP transmits voice traffic through an internet connection or private WAN service while eliminating the necessity for circuit-switched networks for phone calls. VoIP uses codecs to convert audio into data packets, then transmits them across an IP network and converts them back into audio at the receiver’s end of the call. Many organizations avail their VoIP services from VoIP providers like Dialpad, Nextiva, and NetFortris or cloud unified communications providers like RingCentral, 8×8 Inc., and Vonage.


PSTN vs. VoIP

Let’s compare these two technologies based on the following features –

Connectivity Type

In the case of VoIP, IP connectivity is over the internet or private WAN service, while for PSTN, it is over dedicated telephone lines or access via SIP trunking or PRI.

Required Bandwidth

A single VoIP line needs 100Kbps, but the total amount depends on calls and codecs. One PSTN link typically supports 64Kbps in each direction.

Pricing

VoIP providers offer monthly subscription fees starting from $20 to $50 per month, whereas monthly PSTN plans range from $10 to $30 per month.

Scalability

Adding additional VoIP lines usually needs more bandwidth and updates, whereas additional PSTN lines need purchasing more hardware and dedicated lines, which are costly.

Remote Extensions

In the case of VoIP, this feature is usually standard, whereas for PSTN, this feature usually requires dedicated lines for every extension and can be costly.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

VoIP service gets terminated when you lose data network connectivity, whereas PSTN service generally remains active during power outages since phone jacks are powered by the provider.

Call Waiting

Most VoIP providers offer call waiting as a standard feature, whereas PSTN providers also include it as a common feature, but sometimes may charge an extra cost.

Call Forwarding

Some VoIP providers offer call forwarding with their service, whereas PSTN providers sometimes charge extra costs.

Call Transferring

Most VoIP providers include call transferring as a standard feature, whereas, for this feature as well, PSTN providers sometimes charge extra costs.

Emergency Calling

The FCC needs interconnected VoIP services that meet E911 standards by using the PSTN, whereas for PSTN, emergency calling is enabled, and services can trace location.

Fax

Most VoIP providers deliver fax over IP, which uses an analog terminal adapter to connect fax lines to the internet, whereas PSTN supports fax over a dedicated line.

In the PSTN vs. VoIP debate, PSTN is considered more reliable and secure than VoIP networks. PSTN also provides better business continuity, as there’s no interruption in the connection during a power outage. When VoIP technology had just emerged, it was notorious for poor call quality due to jitter, latency, and dropped calls. But, the quality and reliability of VoIP services have enhanced.

If you are looking for help related to business phone services, you can always reach us at SPARK Services.

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Robert E. Allen Jr.

About Robert E. Allen Jr. A Journey of Integrity, Innovation, and Impact Welcome to my corner of the web, where the confluence of technology, entrepreneurship, and ethical business practices come to life. I'm Robert E. Allen Jr., a proud native of southern Ohio, where my roots run deep into the fabric of community and hard work. My journey in the tech world began at Shawnee State University, a chapter filled with exploration and the beginnings of a lifelong passion for computer science. However, my academic path took a turn toward the prestigious halls of Penn State, where I completed my degree and set the foundation for what would become a nearly three-decade-long adventure in business. Building an Empire on Principles Nearly 30 years ago, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, not just to start a business, but to build an empire defined by a commitment to ethical practices and community service. Inspired by the Rotary four-way test—Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?—my business philosophy centers on these questions, guiding every decision and interaction. This ethos has not only shaped my professional life but has also fostered a culture of integrity, trust, and mutual respect within my company and with our clients. A Family Man at Heart Beyond the world of bits, bytes, and business, my life is rich with love and laughter, thanks to my wife and our two wonderful daughters. They are my why, the reason behind every late night, every early morning, and every decision to push the boundaries of what's possible. Together, we've created a life filled with memories, learning, and love—a true testament to the balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment. Looking Forward As I look to the future, my goal is to continue leveraging technology to make a positive impact on the world, guided by the principles that have brought me this far. I strive to innovate, to lead with integrity, and to inspire those around me to do the same. Whether through my business endeavors, community service, or simply by being a role model to my daughters, my journey is about creating a legacy that transcends technology—a legacy of positive change, ethical leadership, and a commitment to making the world a better place for future generations. Thank you for visiting my site. I hope to not only share my journey with you but also to inspire you to pursue your passions, lead with integrity, and make a meaningful impact in your corner of the world.