Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Voicemail Software?

Kristie Lorette
Kristie Lorette

The four primary types of voicemail software systems available are computer-based options, cell phone and residential voicemail. Business voicemail software is also available. The software is either installed directly on your computer or is a remote software that is installed at the cell phone's or residential home phone's service provider.

Some utility companies offer bundled packages in which one of the parts of the package is phone service, either for the business or the residence. When it is a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) service, then the phone service is connected to and coming through the Internet.

Woman holding a disc
Woman holding a disc

When the customer has VoIP service, the voicemail software is built directly into the equipment that is installed when the phone system is installed. VoIP voicemail software works similar to traditional residential or business voicemail, or even cell phone voicemail service.

One of the other types of voicemail software is that offered by a traditional residential or business phone company that provides this service. The software in this case is installed at a remote location, where the phone company’s equipment operates. The software is remotely connected to the business or residential phone line, so that the messages can be retrieved on premise or remotely by the customer dialing into the voicemail phone number.

One of the additional types of voicemail software is cell phone voicemail. Again, this type of voicemail software is loaded onto the equipment that resides at the location of the cell phone service provider. The software is then connected to the individual cell phone number so that messages that be left and retrieved directly from the cell phone or by calling the cell phone number and punching in the appropriate password to retrieve the messages.

When it comes to types of voicemail software for businesses, there are several options that are appropriate and available to businesses that may not be appealing to individuals. For example, business voicemail software tends to provide numerous mailboxes, so that each individual employee on the business phone system has their own voicemail.

In addition to allowing the business voicemail software to set up individual employee mailboxes, there is also typically an option to establish a general box for the company. Generally, this voicemail box goes to the receptionist or someone in the business is assigned to check and manage any messages that are left in the general voicemail box.

Discussion Comments

anon339276

I have one or two friends who ask to "borrow" money on occasion. I am looking for a way to disable their ability to record a voice message, then dump it on my cell phone.

By golly, if you are going to leave me a message, leave a message as if it were on an old answering machine. I do not know if there is a way to disable their ability to record a message then send it to me, with no record of a missed phone call. I don't know if I explained that well. Thanks for listening (reading).

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Woman holding a disc
      Woman holding a disc