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From How-To’s and Tips, to Inspiring Stories and Solution Guides, and more – the Carolina Digital Phone blog has it all!

Blogs, Insights, and Announcements from Carolina Digital Phone
Nicky Smith

Cloud PBX Phone System: Powering Your Business Phone

As a trusted cloudPBX provider for 25 years, Carolina Digital Phone is a leader in the industry. To educate businesses about the features and benefits of cloud-based PBX, we compiled a comprehensive guide to help you sort through the options. This guide outlines the advantages of transitioning to a cloud-based PBX system. It emphasizes the benefits of using cloud technology for your business communication needs and demonstrates how a cloud PBX phone system can transform your operations.

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Nicky Smith November 19, 2025
Nicky Smith

7 Common VoIP Myths Debunked

VoIP phone systems have transformed business communication, yet myths still create confusion. This article breaks down common misconceptions, offering clear facts to help you choose modern, reliable communication over outdated phone systems.

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Nicky Smith October 30, 2025
Neil Matson

DNO Call Blocking: A Guide to Fighting Robocalls

The FCC, in collaboration with entities such as TransNexus, is actively working to combat this problem through various call-blocking mechanisms. This guide offers an overview of these efforts and their role in protecting consumers and businesses alike. We will explore what’s behind DNO call blocking and other tools available.

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Neil Matson October 22, 2025
Neil Matson

Cloud Phone Tricks & Treats: 3 Spooky Simple Customizations

Carolina Digital Phone has some spooky-good tips for you! Say goodbye to haunting dropped calls and outdated systems. Discover spooky-smart VoIP customizations like Find Me/Follow Me, Voicemail-to-Email, and Ring Groups that keep your team connected, efficient, and fearless. Treat your business to crystal-clear calls, mobility, and productivity, no tricks required.

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Neil Matson October 10, 2025
Neil Matson

SMS campaign registry and brand verification

This guide focuses on The Campaign Registry (TCR)’s role in vetting and verifying business SMS campaigns. It explores the evolving 10DLC verification process, highlighting how Authentication+ (Auth 2.0) is reshaping brand registration for enhanced security and compliance in 2025.

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Neil Matson October 2, 2025
Neil Matson

Moving Your Business Phone System to a New Office

If you are moving your office, read this important article on how to successfully plan to move, or change, your telephone system. We have practical advice and steps to help you plan and implement a smooth transition to your new location.

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Neil Matson October 2, 2025
computer lab
Nicky Smith

IP Paging & VoIP: A Quick Guide to IP Paging Systems

This comprehensive guide explains how modern IP paging solutions can enhance communication, streamline operations, and improve safety in various environments. We will delve into the functionality, benefits, and practical applications of IP paging, illustrating how it surpasses traditional analog paging systems in terms of flexibility, scalability, and integration capabilities.

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Nicky Smith September 19, 2025
Neil Matson

The End Of Net Neutrality: What You Need To Know

Net neutrality is the principle that ISPs must treat all internet traffic equally, without blocking, throttling, or creating paid fast lanes. Recent court rulings rolling back FCC authority leave its future uncertain, raising concerns over fair access, hidden fees, and competition. Carolina Digital Phone explains the latest rulings.

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Neil Matson September 16, 2025
Nicky Smith

Get a Toll-Free Number: 800 Numbers for Your Business

A toll-free number, especially an 800 number, boosts your business’s credibility and customer trust by offering cost-free, easy access for calls. It enhances brand visibility and broadens market reach nationally. Learn how a toll-free number from a trusted VoIP provider can help your company’s bottom-line.

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Nicky Smith September 12, 2025
Chris Villa

Biggest Remote Work Challenges and Solutions

Remote work offers flexibility and autonomy, but it also presents challenges like maintaining productivity, effective communication, and feelings of isolation. To thrive, it’s essential to establish clear boundaries, create dedicated workspaces, and use tools like VoIP and project management software. By addressing these issues, businesses can enhance collaboration and support a healthy work-life balance for their teams.

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Chris Villa September 5, 2025
Eric Lyon

Create Time Frames

A time frame is a pre-defined period of time used to control call behavior in the Carolina Digital Phone system. They are crucial for automatically adjusting call forwarding and voicemail greetings for events like holidays, after-hours, or custom breaks. This ensures professional communication and helps avoid missed calls

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Eric Lyon September 2, 2025
Neil Matson

Certified Expertise: The Backbone of Carolina Digital Phone’s Support Engineers

At Carolina Digital Phone, our support engineers are the backbone of our commitment to keeping your business connected. They’re not just problem-solvers; they’re experts who undergo rigorous training to stay ahead of the curve. With industry-recognized certifications and continuous professional development, our team ensures your communication infrastructure is reliable and secure, always prepared for any challenge.

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Neil Matson September 2, 2025
Nicky Smith

2025 SMS Marketing: Texting Statistics – What Customers Want

Staying connected with customers in real-time is more critical than ever in 2025. SMS marketing offers a direct line to consumers, and understanding the latest texting statistics and trends is crucial for crafting effective marketing strategies. This article examines what customers expect from business texting and how businesses must adapt to these evolving preferences to remain successful.

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Nicky Smith August 27, 2025
Nicky Smith

Choose a Local Company for your Hosted VoIP Telephone Services

Choose the right VoIP provider to upgrade your business communication with cost-effective, flexible, and feature-rich solutions. Whether replacing outdated systems or seeking modern options, consider reliability, customer support, and pricing to find the best fit. Tailor your choice to your business needs for enhanced efficiency and seamless connectivity.

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Nicky Smith August 7, 2025
Nicky Smith

Improve Call Center Efficiency: Reduce Call Handle Times

Efficient call centers leverage strategies like intelligent call routing, real-time data analytics, and comprehensive agent training. By reducing call handle times and improving first call resolution, these methods lead to higher customer satisfaction, stronger loyalty, and a significant competitive advantage.

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Nicky Smith July 31, 2025
Nicky Smith

6 Essential Tips for Preventing Toll-Free Traffic Pumping in Your Business

Protect your business from toll-free traffic pumping with these six essential tips. From understanding the scam to modifying your IVR system and collaborating with trusted providers, implementing these strategies will help safeguard your telecom costs and enhance your VoIP fraud protection. Stay vigilant and ensure your communications remain secure!

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Nicky Smith July 23, 2025
Neil Matson

Why the BLF (Busy Lamp Field) is Key to a Better VoIP Experience

The Busy Lamp Field (BLF), or “Buddy Button,” significantly enhances VoIP phone systems by providing real-time status updates of other extensions. It improves call management, team collaboration, and customer service by allowing users to see if colleagues are busy, idle, or ringing. The article also covers programming BLF keys, their benefits, and integration with mobile devices.

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Neil Matson July 10, 2025
Nicky Smith

7 Tips for Starting a Franchise Business: Your Business Plan

Starting a franchise offers a proven path to business ownership, reducing startup risks. This guide covers choosing the right franchise, understanding fees, and developing a robust business plan. Learn about marketing, staffing, and operational systems like VoIP to ensure a successful launch and long-term growth.

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Nicky Smith June 30, 2025
Neil Matson

Unlocking the Power of “Answer Confirmation for Off-net Numbers”

Stay on top of every customer call with Carolina Digital Phone’s Answer Confirmation for Off-Net Numbers—an overlooked feature that ensures important calls are never missed, even on mobile or remote lines. In a world where 88% of customers prefer human interaction, this tool helps your team deliver reliable, professional service anywhere.

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Neil Matson June 9, 2025
Neil Matson

Unlocking Growth: Your Guide to Key SMB Resources in the Southeast

Running a small or medium-sized business in the Southeast offers immense opportunity, but also intense competition. To gain an edge, businesses can tap into powerful yet often overlooked resources. Federal, state, and regional programs, from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), offer crucial support, funding, and mentorship to fuel your growth.

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Neil Matson June 6, 2025
Nicky Smith

These Facts About a Cloud Phone System May Surprise You

Ditch desk phones! Cloud systems use the internet for flexible “virtual lines.” Expect surprisingly robust features like auto-attendants and easy online management, often at a lower cost. Seamless integration with business software and effortless scalability are key benefits.

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Nicky Smith May 14, 2025
Neil Matson

Celebrating Small Business Month 2025

As Small Business Month 2025 approaches, it’s an opportunity to recognize the vital contributions of small businesses to our economy and communities. Small businesses are crucial to the economy, generating jobs and fostering innovation. They employ nearly half of the American workforce and significantly contribute to the nation’s GDP. Supporting these businesses helps boost the local economy and create a more vibrant marketplace.

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Neil Matson May 2, 2025
Nicky Smith

VoIP Phone System: How to Save Money on Your Business Phone

VoIP Phone System: How to Save Money on Your Business Phone Clear communication is essential for success in the rapidly evolving business world. Choosing a VoIP phone system provides a contemporary and budget-friendly option compared to conventional phone systems. This article examines how adopting a VoIP phone system can save money for your small business while improving communication. Uncover the benefits of transitioning to VoIP and how it can revolutionize your business telephone system. Understanding VoIP Phone Systems What is VoIP? Simply put, a VoIP phone system enables individuals and small businesses to make and receive calls over an internet

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Nicky Smith April 22, 2025
988 Suicide Prevention Hotline
Neil Matson

Carolina Digital Phone Supports the “988” Suicide Prevention Hotline

What is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline? The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a nationwide, three-digit hotline launched on July 16, 2022, to provide free and confidential support for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health crises, or substance use issues. It replaced the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s 10-digit number to simplify access to crisis services. Operated by over 200 local crisis centers and funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Lifeline connects callers, texters, and chat users to trained counselors available 24/7. Specialized services include support for veterans, Spanish-speaking individuals, LGBTQI+ callers, and

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Neil Matson April 11, 2025
happy worker marker board
Nicky Smith

5 Business Technologies that are Essential in 2025

In 2025 essential business technologies include cellular internet backup, sophisticated websites, and on-demand customer touchpoints like web chat and text messaging. SaaS accounting and CRM platforms streamline operations, while hosted VoIP phone systems offer cost-effective, scalable communication. These technologies drive innovation and reduce risk.

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Nicky Smith March 24, 2025
VoIP for Startups
Nicky Smith

Why VoIP is right for Startup Businesses

Flash quiz: what do Apple, Amazon, and Google all have in common? They started in a garage. That’s about as humble as it gets! While no one can promise your startup will become a billion-dollar unicorn, one thing is certain: your success hinges on making smart, cost-effective technology choices. If you’re looking to launch or scale in 2025, a VoIP phone system (Voice over Internet Protocol) belongs at the very top of your “must-have” list. Below, we’ll break down the reasons why VoIP is ideal for startups. We’ll keep it human and straightforward, so you can clearly see how VoIP

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Nicky Smith March 23, 2025
Business Costs
Nicky Smith

Top Ways To Effectively Cut Business Costs

Running a business is exciting—there’s creativity, collaboration, and that electric buzz of bringing ideas to life. However, as any business owner quickly learns, managing finances and keeping costs in check is just as important as winning new clients or rolling out innovative products. It’s easy to get caught up in growth and expansion only to realize that expenses are creeping higher than expected. So, how do you keep spending under control without sacrificing quality or morale? The good news is that cutting costs doesn’t mean you have to start handing out pink slips or skimp on the resources your team

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Nicky Smith March 23, 2025
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Professionals
Nicky Smith

Time-Saving Tips For Busy Professionals

Feeling overwhelmed by a fast-paced day? You can make better use of your hours by prioritizing tasks, streamlining workflows, and setting healthier work habits. This guide explores approaches to help you work smarter, not harder. Regain control of overflowing inboxes and jam-packed calendars with these time-saving tips.

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Nicky Smith March 23, 2025
North Carolina industries
Nicky Smith

Exploring North Carolina’s Leading Industries: A Friendly Guide to the Tar Heel State

North Carolina, fondly known as the Tar Heel State, is brimming with history, innovation, and natural beauty. From the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy shores of the Outer Banks, the state’s diverse landscape sets the stage for an equally diverse economy. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a potential investor, or someone who loves a good story, this friendly guide will give you a glimpse into the industries that make North Carolina tick—plus a few fun facts along the way! Key Takeaways North Carolina is home to the second-largest banking hub in the U.S. after New

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Nicky Smith March 23, 2025
Neil Matson

How Voice Messaging Businesses Can Accommodate HoH Callers

Businesses that use voice messaging shouldn’t avoid HoH (Hard of Hearing) callers, especially as rates of hearing loss continue to rise. Instead, adapting communication strategies can ensure HoH callers are accommodated and included to improve service and may even be beneficial to callers without hearing loss.

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Neil Matson March 3, 2025
VoIP for Business in 2025
Nicky Smith

Top 5 Industries Benefiting Most from VoIP in 2025

In 2025, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is revolutionizing industries like healthcare, education, retail, finance, and legal services. VoIP improves communication, cuts costs, and enhances customer experiences with secure, integrated systems. It offers benefits like streamlined coordination, flexible learning environments, rapid customer service, and enhanced data protection.

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Nicky Smith February 12, 2025
Small Business Pain Points
Neil Matson

Small Business Pain Points (And How to Overcome Them)

Small business owners often juggle countless tasks—managing finances, marketing products, hiring staff—while aiming to stand out in competitive markets. Each challenge, or “pain point,” can feel daunting in isolation, but quickly recognizing these issues makes them far more manageable. By mapping out the most common difficulties and understanding how to tackle them, entrepreneurs set themselves up for sustainable growth and success. Key Takeaways Hiring a strong team starts with clarity! Clearly defined job roles reduce hiring mistakes, improve efficiency, and help attract the right candidates. A well-structured job description can save your business time and money in the long run.

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Neil Matson February 12, 2025
Hidden Costs of Cloud-Based Phone Systems
Joan Wilkerson

Hidden Costs of Cloud-Based Phone Systems: What Southeastern Businesses Need to Know

Cloud-based phone systems, also known as VoIP systems, have grown in popularity among businesses throughout the Southeast. They promise streamlined communication, flexible work arrangements, and straightforward pricing. At first glance, these solutions appear to be a budget-friendly alternative to traditional on-premise systems. However, digging deeper, you’ll see that hidden costs can arise and undermine those projected savings. Carolina Digital Phone has worked with countless organizations that initially assumed all cloud-based phone providers operate under transparent pricing models, only to find multiple unexpected fees buried in the fine print. These unseen expenses range from hardware and licensing add-ons to regulatory surcharges

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Joan Wilkerson February 12, 2025
VoIP for Insurance Companies
Neil Matson

Common VoIP Phone Problems for Insurance Companies

Insurance providers operate in a highly competitive market where seamless communication is crucial. Clients often reach out in times of crisis—such as after an accident, when reviewing coverage options, or when filing a claim. A minor glitch in call quality, a brief system downtime, or a breach of personal information can negatively impact an insurer’s reputation and bottom line. VoIP technology offers a robust solution to enhance call management, scale operations effortlessly, and support regulatory compliance. Yet, adopting VoIP also comes with unique challenges. Some issues arise from technical constraints, while others stem from the strict regulations governing insurance companies.

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Neil Matson February 12, 2025
Neil Matson

Essential Backup Strategies to Combat Internet Outages and Downtime

Restaurant internet outages cripple operations, impacting online orders, POS systems, and customer experience. Downtime leads to lost revenue and frustrated customers. Robust backup strategies, like RabbitRun’s Managed SD-WAN, are crucial. These solutions ensure continuous connectivity by automatically switching to backup internet options, minimizing disruptions and maximizing uptime for smoother service and happier customers. This is a key opportunity for IT MSPs and UCaaS providers to support restaurants and grow their business.

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Neil Matson February 7, 2025
frustrated on hold
Nicky Smith

How Presence Enhances Customer Service and Better Customer Retention

Customer service technology like Presence transforms call transfers by providing real-time colleague availability. Instead of leaving customers frustrated, representatives can now offer transparent options like immediate transfer, voicemail, or callback. This approach empowers customers, reduces anxiety during transfers, and ultimately improves their experience by giving them control over how their inquiry will be handled.

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Nicky Smith January 29, 2025
Customer Delight
Joan Wilkerson

How to Surprise and Delight Your Customers

Delighting customers isn’t just a strategy; it’s essential for building loyalty. By creating emotional connections through personalized interactions, unexpected perks, and celebrating milestones, businesses can transform one-time buyers into lifelong advocates. Understanding customer needs, leveraging technology, and fostering a culture of empathy are key. Simple gestures, like handwritten notes or complimentary upgrades, can leave lasting impressions, driving higher retention rates and referrals. Start small and genuine to make customer delight your competitive edge.

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Joan Wilkerson January 16, 2025
Engaging Remote Employees
Nicky Smith

Engaging Remote Employees: Strategies for Success

Remote work has become a permanent reality for many organizations. While it offers benefits like flexibility and cost savings, it also introduces challenges that can impact employee engagement. Without the physical presence of an office, workers may feel disconnected, unmotivated, or even undervalued. For businesses, the stakes are high—disengaged employees can lead to decreased productivity, higher turnover, and a decline in overall morale. Engaging remote employees requires intentional effort and creativity. It’s no longer enough to rely on traditional methods like occasional team lunches or office parties. The remote workforce demands new approaches to foster connection, collaboration, and well-being. From

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Nicky Smith January 16, 2025
Employee Communication Apps 2025
Neil Matson

Best Employee Communication Apps for 2025

In 2025, employee communication apps are essential for remote and hybrid teams. Top platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom offer seamless collaboration with features such as AI integration, multilingual support, and robust security. These tools promote transparency, boost engagement, and streamline workflows across diverse, global workforces, making effective digital communication a critical business strategy.

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Neil Matson January 16, 2025
VoIP Provider Selection Mistakes
Neil Matson

How Not to Choose a VoIP Provider

Selecting the right VoIP provider ensures smooth and efficient business communications. Despite the availability of options, many organizations make costly mistakes during the selection process. These missteps can lead to subpar performance, unexpected expenses, and missed opportunities. This guide explores what not to do when choosing a VoIP provider, helping you avoid pitfalls and make an informed decision for your business. Key Takeaways 💡 Fact: Businesses that focus solely on VoIP provider costs often face hidden limitations like poor support and missing features. Invest in value, not just savings! #VoIPSolutions #BusinessCommunication #TechForBusiness #CloudTelephony #DigitalTransformation Neglecting to Assess Business Needs A

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Neil Matson January 16, 2025
VoIP vs Traditional Phone Systems
Nicky Smith

VoIP Phone vs. Traditional Phones: Pros and Cons

Effective communication is crucial for businesses to succeed. From building client relationships to fostering internal collaboration, the tools you use for communication can significantly impact your organization’s efficiency and productivity. One of the most important decisions for businesses is choosing between traditional phone systems and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Both options have distinct features, advantages, and drawbacks; understanding these differences is essential for making an informed decision. This article compares VoIP phones and traditional phone systems, exploring their functionality, cost implications, scalability, reliability, and more. Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large enterprise, this guide

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Nicky Smith January 16, 2025
Simplified VoIP Systems
Chris Villa

Why You May Not Need A Fancy Business Phone

Choosing the right communication system is critical for every business, but more sophisticated doesn’t always mean better. Many businesses invest heavily in complex and expensive phone systems only to find they’re not utilizing most of the features they’ve paid for. Carolina Digital Phone believes in empowering businesses with effective, efficient, and easy-to-manage communication tools—without unnecessary frills or sky-high costs. Modern hosted VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) systems offer everything most businesses need at a fraction of the cost of traditional or overly complicated systems. Consider what’s essential before spending thousands on a fancy business phone system. Let’s explore how simplifying

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Chris Villa January 16, 2025
AI in Business 2025
Nicky Smith

The Impact of AI on Business in 2025

AI is transforming business in 2025, driving efficiency, automation, and innovation. From customer service chatbots to advanced data analytics, companies are leveraging AI to streamline operations and enhance decision-making. As technology evolves, businesses must adapt to stay competitive. Learn more about AI’s growing role in various industries in this insightful article.

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Nicky Smith January 16, 2025
Neil Matson

How to Secure Your Mobile Device: 8 Tips for 2025

In this article, we share eight essential tips for securing your mobile device in 2025, addressing the alarming rise in cyberattacks. From performing regular software updates to implementing strong authentication measures, the guide covers crucial aspects of mobile security. We highlight the importance of best practices to enhance mobile device security and protect personal information from potential threats.

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Neil Matson December 20, 2024
payment methods laid out
Nicky Smith

Business Telephone System Costs

A reliable business phone system is crucial for modern companies. To improve communication, productivity, and customer service, businesses must carefully consider the costs and requirements of planning their phone system. This article outlines the cost and essential components needed to build a strong business phone infrastructure.

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Nicky Smith November 27, 2024
Nicky Smith

Happy Thanksgiving From Carolina Digital Phone

At Carolina Digital Phone, we’re thankful for our customers – you are the reason we get to do what we love every day! Your support means the world to us, and we’re committed to providing you with the best service and support possible.

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Nicky Smith November 27, 2024
Nicky Smith

STIR/SHAKEN Robocaller Protection

STIR/SHAKEN Robocaller Protection Greensboro, NC — Carolina Digital Phone, a leader in cloud-based communications, is excited to announce the implementation of STIR/SHAKEN technology.  This cutting-edge solution combats the growing issue of robocalls. This initiative is part of a broader industry effort to enhance the integrity of the public telephone system across the United States. What is STIR/SHAKEN? STIR (Secure Telephone Identity Revisited) and SHAKEN (Secure Handling of Asserted information using toKENs) are industry standards designed to help service providers verify the authenticity of calls using digital certificates. By ensuring that the number displayed on Caller ID matches the originating call,

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Nicky Smith November 26, 2024
VoIP Myths
Neil Matson

Debunking VoIP Myths: What Every Business Should Know

VoIP technology has evolved significantly. This guide debunks common myths about its reliability, scalability, and security. Modern VoIP systems offer high uptime, exceptional call quality, and robust security measures, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes. Don’t let outdated perceptions hold your business back; embrace VoIP for cost-effective and efficient communication solutions.

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Neil Matson November 25, 2024
Managed VoIP Service
Neil Matson

Reasons Not to Manage Your Own VoIP Server

Managing your own VoIP server is risky. Complex technical challenges, security vulnerabilities, and hidden costs can overwhelm businesses. Professional managed services offer expert support, robust infrastructure, and reliable communication solutions that save time and reduce operational complexity.

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Neil Matson November 25, 2024
VoIP for Business Transformation 2024
Neil Matson

Top 5 Industries Leveraging VoIP for Transformation in 2025

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is revolutionizing communication across industries by offering scalable, cost-effective solutions. Its benefits include crystal-clear voice quality, seamless integration with digital tools, and enhanced mobility, making it ideal for businesses aiming to improve connectivity. VoIP supports sectors like healthcare, education, and finance, enabling secure communications and operational efficiency. Carolina Digital Phone leads in providing tailored VoIP solutions, ensuring organizations remain agile and connected in today’s fast-paced environment.

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Neil Matson November 25, 2024
Ways small businesses save money
Neil Matson

10 Proven Ways for Small Businesses to Save Money and Improve Profitability

Discover practical strategies for small businesses to save money and boost profitability. From switching to cost-effective VoIP systems to embracing remote work, these ten proven methods can enhance efficiency and reduce expenses. Learn how optimizing operational costs, negotiating with vendors, and implementing energy-efficient solutions can significantly impact your bottom line. Start making smart financial decisions today to achieve sustainable growth for your business.

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Neil Matson November 25, 2024


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