VoIP gateways and adapters connect ordinary telephones, fax machines and traditional phone lines to an internet phone service. The category covers analogue telephone adapters (ATAs), FXS and FXO gateways, and routers with built-in voice ports, and it suits homes, small offices and businesses moving from landline to VoIP.
No products are listed in this category at the moment, so no brands are shown here.
How to choose a VoIP gateway or adapter
Port type. FXS ports connect analogue handsets and fax machines, while FXO ports connect the gateway to an existing phone line or a PBX extension. Decide first whether you are plugging phones into the internet or plugging an old line into a VoIP system, because the two jobs need different ports.
Number of ports. A single FXS port is enough for one cordless base station or one fax machine. An office with several analogue desk phones needs a multi-port gateway, and it is worth leaving a spare port or two for growth.
Protocol and provider compatibility. Most VoIP gateways and adapters use SIP, which works with a wide variety of providers and phone systems. Check that your provider or PBX supports SIP registration for third-party devices, and that the gateway supports the audio codecs your provider uses, such as G.711 and G.729.
Network features. Look for Gigabit or Fast Ethernet ports, support for VLANs and quality of service (QoS) settings, and, if you want a single box, router functions with built-in voice ports. Voice traffic is sensitive to delay, so the ability to prioritise calls matters on a busy network.
Fax and call quality. Fax over VoIP is less dependable than voice, so choose a model that explicitly supports T.38 if you still send faxes. Echo cancellation and adjustable jitter buffers also help keep calls clear on average broadband connections.
Brands in this category
No manufacturers are listed here at present because there are no products in this category. When comparing models from any maker, these points tell you most about the device:
- Port layout: the number and type of FXS and FXO ports should match the phones and lines you plan to connect.
- Firmware support: a manufacturer that publishes regular firmware updates and clear configuration guides makes setup and security much easier.
- Provider profiles: some makers supply ready-made settings for common VoIP providers, which shortens installation.
Related network products can be found in the wider Routers category.
Frequently asked questions about VoIP gateways and adapters
What is a VoIP gateway?
A VoIP gateway is a device that converts voice signals between a traditional telephone network or analogue equipment and an internet-based phone service. It lets existing handsets, fax machines or phone lines work with VoIP. Small single-port versions are usually called adapters or ATAs.
Can I use my old phone with VoIP?
Yes, an analogue phone can be used with VoIP if you connect it to the FXS port of an ATA or gateway. The adapter connects to your router over Ethernet and registers with your VoIP provider. The phone then rings and dials as it did on a landline.
What is the difference between FXS and FXO?
FXS ports supply power and dial tone to an analogue phone, so they act like the wall socket. FXO ports connect to a phone line or PBX and act like the phone itself. Choose FXS to connect handsets, and FXO to link an existing line to a VoIP system.
Will a VoIP adapter work with any provider?
Most SIP-based adapters work with any provider that allows standard SIP devices, but this is not guaranteed. Some providers lock their service to supplied equipment or require specific settings. Check your provider's requirements for third-party devices before buying.
