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VoIP (Voice Over IP) for Extension Colleagues

Voice over IP is the method used to secure a phone number for Extension colleagues that are not provided a phone via their local partnerships or via cellular service. This article explains how VoIP numbers are allocated in the Division of Extension.

What is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over IP) is a technology that allows people to use their computer as a phone. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, we use a software program called Webex, which allows us to make and receive calls and access our voicemail using just our computer. This is referred to as a "soft-phone" instead of having a physical phone that sits on your desk. We do not support physical phones without written permission of the Associate Dean of Operations and Stakeholder Engagement.

Who is Eligible?

All Division of Extension colleagues are eligible for a VoIP phone number. However, you must have the ability to install the Webex software on your laptop. Additionally, staff located off-campus cannot use VoIP for e911 services. Therefore, we recommend that, where possible, colleagues located in counties use the phone services provided by the county.

How do I get a VoIP number?

VoIP numbers must be requested by an authorized user. Generally, in Extension, the authorized users are the administrative managers for each institute. 

More Questions?

If you have additional questions, please reach out to helpdesk@extension.wisc.edu



Keywords:
VoIP, telephone, phone, voicemail 
Doc ID:
154551
Owned by:
Deanna S. in Extension Handbook
Created:
2025-09-03
Updated:
2025-09-05
Sites:
Extension Handbook