A Virtual Phone Number, or Virtual Number, is a telephone number that exists without an associated phone line. These numbers may be programmed to be forwarded to either a Voice over IP service (VoIP) or to a different fixed or mobile phone line. Virtual numbers sometimes are used in conjunction with email forwarding services to create a virtual office in remote locations from the main office, or to create the illusion of an office that does not exist in brick and mortar. For instance, a company may purchase a virtual number in an area code in Phoenix, Arizona to give customers the impression that the company is located in that city, when - in fact - that company may exist anywhere except Phoenix, Arizona. Virtual phone numbers can be used internationally, depending upon the company that provides such a service.

How it Works

Basically, a virtual phone number service is an enhanced call forwarding process. For many companies, sign up for a virtual number is free, and the monthly cost to maintain a number - or a group of numbers - with a specified area code is minimal. When a customer calls a number, that number is then routed to a fixed or mobile device.

Many companies have seized upon the virtual number offering to customers as a package for entrepreneurs. In this case, an individual can set up a virtual office complete with toll-free or local number, multiple extensions, live call forwarding, music-on-hold, dial-by-name directory and much more. In many cases, each extension can forward up to six or more phone numbers where you can be reached on a home, office, mobile or VoIP phone. You could also receive faxes, voicemails and email online, and some services offer video and/or picture attachments.

Beyond business applications, a virtual number also can save users money when calling friends and family long distance. If you live in Canada and you acquire a phone number in India, for instance, all your friends and family in India can call that virtual number instead of the number instead of your Canadian phone number. They will save money on their long-distance calls and you can have peace of mind knowing that they can reach you at any time.

Another market for virtual numbers includes the dating service scene. Virtual numbers provide an added layer of privacy and security for anyone who dates random strangers. Theoretically, you could acquire a different virtual number for each dating prospect.

What You Need

All you need to acquire a virtual number is a fixed or mobile phone line for the calls to be forwarded to from that virtual number. Many phone companies and separate enterprises now offer virtual numbers as part of an overall amenities package that might include call forwarding, caller ID and call waiting.

Types Offered

Several types of services are offered for virtual numbers, including entire suites that are geared to the on-the-go entrepreneur. Service types range from acquiring a virtual number for a dating service to complete packages that include FAX services and more. The virtual number usually adapts to any service you already have with your existing phone service, plus any features that the company may offer along with that virtual number. Some companies offer complete PBX solutions as well, a service that connects entire remote teams of employees worldwide.

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