How to Make Phone Calls From Your Computer

While it might appear convenient to use your cell phone, sometimes you want an easy way to make phone calls from your computer or laptop. You can use a free calling service, connect your mobile phone, or use a separate business line.

You’ll need an internet connection, a microphone, and speakers or a headset for internet-based calls. The setup depends on whether you want to use your existing cell number or call through a separate service. This guide walks you through each option.

You can make a phone call from your computer in a few different ways. If you want to call a regular phone number for free, Google Voice may work for you. If you want to use your existing cell number, you can connect your phone to a Windows PC or Mac. And if your team needs a shared business line, you can use a VoIP app such as NextivaONE.

How Do Computer Calls Work?

It’s worth first pointing out how calling from your computer works. A phone call from a computer typically works using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology.

Here’s how VoIP works:

• Analog voice signals are captured by a microphone, then converted into digital format using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC).
• The digital voice data is then divided into packets. Each packet includes a portion of the voice signal as well as header information that ensures the data can be properly routed and reassembled.
• Packets are sent over an IP network to the recipient. This network can be any data network, including the internet, a direct IP connection, or a virtual private network (VPN).
• At the receiving end, the packets are reassembled, converted back into an analog signal (via a digital-to-analog converter), and played back so the recipient can hear the sender’s voice.

Now here’s a quick overview of how making a phone call from a computer works in general:

1. The setup you will need

• A VoIP provider (like Nextiva, or Google Voice) that assigns you a phone number.
• A computer with a microphone and speakers (or a headset for better quality).
• A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or a hotspot).

2. Check your internet connection

• VoIP calls rely on the internet, so a good connection ensures clear audio. Run an internet speed test (look for at least 0.5 Mbps for VoIP calls).
• You can also use a wired Ethernet connection for the most reliable performance or stable Wi-Fi.

3. Choose and install a calling app

• Sign up for a VoIP service like Nextiva.
• Then go to the app’s website and download and install the desktop app (or you can use the web version).

4. Set up your sound system

• Built-in Options: Most computers have built-in microphones and speakers.
• Better Option: Use a VoIP-compatible headset for clearer sound and noise cancellation in noisy environments.
• Quick Check: Plug in your headset (Bluetooth, USB, or wired), then go to your computer’s sound settings and select the correct input/output device.

Now you’re ready to make your first call!

RELATED: How Does VoIP Work? The Beginner’s Guide to VoIP Phone Systems

Ways to Make Phone Calls From Your Computer at a Glance

You can call through a separate phone number or connect your existing mobile line. This table compares the cost and features of each method so you can choose the one that fits your needs.

Method	Cost	Number used	Call recording	Business features
Google Voice for personal use	Almost all calls from the U.S. to the U.S. and Canada are free; some numbers and international calls cost extra	A separate Google Voice number	Incoming calls when enabled	Basic calling, texting, and voicemail
Windows Phone Link	No separate app fee; your mobile plan still applies	Your existing mobile number	No built-in business call recording	Lets you handle mobile calls on your PC
Mac calls from iPhone	No separate app fee; your mobile plan still applies	Your existing mobile number	Depends on the calling method and device	Lets you handle iPhone calls on your Mac
Business VoIP softphone, including a browser-based option	Paid plan	A business number or a number you transfer to the provider	Depends on the plan	Call routing, team access, and other business tools

Google Voice and a business VoIP softphone can place calls from your computer without keeping a paired phone nearby once the service is set up. Phone Link and Mac calls from iPhone use your connected mobile line. NextivaONE can run in a browser or as an installed app.

How to Make Free Phone Calls From a Computer

If you want to call a regular phone number for free, Google Voice is one option. If the person you’re calling uses the same calling app as you, an app-to-app call may also work.

Call a phone number with Google Voice

Google Voice is a free service you can use to make calls and send texts from your smartphone or computer. To make a call, you’ll need a Google Voice number associated with your Google Account.

Personal Google Voice numbers are available to users in the U.S. Almost all calls made from the U.S. to numbers in the U.S. and Canada are free, though some numbers and international calls cost extra.

To use Google Voice:

1. Visit Google Voice and sign in with your Google Account.
2. Follow the prompts to choose a number for personal use.
3. Search by city or area code for an available number.
4. Select the number you want and complete any verification steps.
5. Open the Calls tab, enter a name or number, and place your call.

You can also download the Google Voice app to use your number on your phone. For computer calls, Google Voice supports Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari. Give your browser access to your microphone when prompted.

Pros:

• Call forwarding is straightforward.
• Text messaging is included with your Google Voice number.
• You can record incoming calls when the feature is enabled.
• Voicemail transcription is useful, though it may sometimes be inaccurate.

Cons:

• International calls generally cost extra.
• Setup may be complicated if you don’t have another number for verification.
• A personal account doesn’t provide advanced business features such as call flows.

Make an app-to-app call

Some calling apps let you call another person who uses the same service over an internet connection. This can work for a personal conversation, but it isn’t the same as dialing someone’s regular mobile or landline number. Check the app’s calling options if you need to reach a phone number.

Related: Top Google Voice Alternatives for Businesses

How to Make Calls On a Windows Computer or Mac

You can also use your computer to make calls through your existing mobile line. Your computer handles the conversation, but your phone and mobile service remain part of the setup.

Make calls on Windows with Phone Link

Microsoft Phone Link lets you make and receive calls on a Windows PC using a paired Android phone or iPhone. Both devices need Bluetooth for calling.

1. Open Phone Link on your PC and follow the prompts to connect your phone.
2. Turn on Bluetooth and grant the requested permissions.
3. Select Calls in Phone Link.
4. Choose a contact or enter a number to place the call.

Phone Link uses your existing mobile number. It doesn’t give you a separate number or let you make calls without the paired phone.

Make calls on a Mac with your iPhone number

If you have an iPhone, you can set up your Mac to make and receive its cellular calls. Sign in to both devices with the same Apple Account and connect them to the same Wi-Fi network. Turn on Calls on Other Devices in your iPhone’s Phone settings, then turn on Calls from iPhone in FaceTime settings on your Mac.

Once set up, you can place calls through FaceTime, Contacts, or the Phone app where available on your version of macOS. These calls use your iPhone number and mobile plan.

Want to call without a paired phone? Use Google Voice for personal calls or a business VoIP app such as NextivaONE on your Windows PC or Mac. You’ll need an account and a number with the service.

How to Make a Phone Call from Your Computer with Nextiva

NextivaONE offers multiple methods to initiate phone calls from your computer. Before you can make a call, you’ll need to get set up:

• Step 1. First, if you haven’t already, sign up for a business phone plan starting at $15 per user per month with annual billing.
• Step 2. Choose your phone number and check your plan if you also need a toll-free number.
• Step 3. Download NextivaONE to your Mac, Windows PC, or mobile device (Android phone or iPhone) and sign in with your username and password.

You’re now ready to accept any incoming call, place outbound calls, or exchange text messages with anyone you want. Your phone app even works great on the go with Wi-Fi calling.

Here are three ways to make a phone call from your computer with Nextiva.

1. Dial a number directly:

• Log in with your Nextiva credentials.
• Click the Phone icon at the top of the NextivaONE application.
• Enter the desired phone number using the on-screen dial pad.
• Click the Call button to initiate the call.

2. Select a contact:

• Navigate to the Contacts section within NextivaONE.
• Scroll through or search for the contact you wish to call.
• Click the Phone icon next to the contact’s name to start the call.

3. Call from a conversation thread:

• Open an existing conversation thread with the person you want to call.
• Within the thread, click the Phone icon to initiate a call directly from the conversation.

These methods provide flexibility in how you manage your communications, allowing you to choose the most convenient way to make calls from your computer using NextivaONE.

When you need a communications solution for professional phone calls from a computer, look no further than Nextiva. It offers amazing features that distinguish it from other business communication phone providers.

Pros:

• Unified communications provides voice, video, text, and team collaboration features on one platform.
• Exceptional uptime and call quality from an enterprise-grade calling network across North America.
• Flexible for adapting to your changing business needs with support for call centers, remote employees, and a vast lineup of VoIP phones.

Cons:

• It’s not free. Nextiva provides the best phone service for hundreds of thousands of businesses that count on it for billions of phone calls every year.
• Best for companies, not residential use. Its top features include call flows, voicemail transcription, call recording, and the ability to make a conference call.

Top Benefits of Making Calls on a Computer

Making calls from your computer can save you from buying a desk phone and give you more flexibility in where you work. Business calling apps can also bring useful call features into the same place.

Cost Savings

VoIP systems allow you to make calls, especially international calls, at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional phone systems. Not only that, but you can use your existing computer and internet connection, which means you don’t need to buy additional equipment like desk phones. Also, many VoIP services include great features like voicemail, call forwarding, and text messaging.

Flexibility and Portability

You can make calls from anywhere with an internet connection, whether you’re at home, in a café, or traveling abroad. Desktop calling apps often integrate with messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing, which means you get to enjoy unified communication – i.e., manage all your communication in one place. And, finally, many services let you switch between your computer, smartphone, or tablet seamlessly.

Advanced Business Call Features

When you have access to great features like call recording, auto-attendants, shared numbers, and analytics, this can help streamline workflows and give you a productivity boost. VoIP apps often allow you to customize settings like call forwarding, voicemail greetings, and Do Not Disturb mode. And some platforms integrate with CRM tools or provide shared team inboxes for better collaboration.

RELATED: How Much Does VoIP Cost? [2024 Pricing Guide]

Which Computer Calling Method Should You Choose?

For an occasional personal call, Google Voice may give you everything you need. If you want to answer calls to your existing cell number while working at your computer, use Phone Link on Windows or iPhone calling on Mac.

If you need a separate number for customers, multiple employees answering calls, or more control over where calls go, a business VoIP service like Nextiva may be a better fit. The right method depends on the number you want to use and the features your team needs.

Nextiva Is Your Solution for Calling From Your Computer

Using your computer to make calls to others is no longer an impossible feat. You can either use your mobile phone with your computer or opt for a separate phone line using just your internet connection.

Free phone services are great for personal use, but for businesses, you’ll value the communication features that only a cloud phone provider can deliver.

Ready to do more than a few phone calls from your computer? Get a no-hassle personalized quote from Nextiva and see how easy cloud-based calling can be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Calls