Last updated October 31, 2026
Short answer: for most small businesses, VoIP (internet phone service) costs less than landlines, includes far more features, and works from anywhere. Traditional copper landlines are also being phased out: in California, AT&T plans to begin ending copper landline service in parts of the state on or after June 1, 2027.
| VoIP (cloud phone system) | Traditional landline | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Calls run over your internet connection | Calls run over copper phone lines |
| Typical features | Auto attendant, call queues, voicemail to email, mobile app, texting, online fax, call recording | Basic calling, voicemail and call forwarding, often add-on fees |
| Work from anywhere | Yes, with mobile and desktop apps on the business number | No, tied to the physical line |
| Adding a line | Add an extension in minutes | Order a new line and wait for installation |
| Hardware | IP desk phones or apps; no phone system closet | Desk phones plus on-site PBX or key system |
| Internet outage | Calls forward to cell phones; optional 4G/5G backup | Works during internet outages |
| Future availability | Growing | Being retired by major carriers |
| Supreme Call price | $19.99 to $24.99 per extension per month, no installation fee | Varies by carrier |
A few devices, such as some older alarm panels, elevator phones and fire panels, were built for copper lines. These usually need a certified cellular or internet communicator rather than a regular VoIP line, so plan them separately. See our AT&T landline shutdown guide.
