Virtual Phone Number
Short answer: A virtual number is a phone number that you use over the internet, through an app, dashboard or SIP account, rather than on a physical SIM card or landline. The term describes how the number is delivered, not whether it is real: a virtual number can be a genuine mobile, local or toll-free number on a national phone network.
The phrase is used loosely online, covering everything from free shared inboxes to private numbers on national networks, so it pays to check what a provider actually sells.
Definition
A virtual number is any phone number delivered to you through software instead of dedicated hardware at your location. Calls and texts reach a provider, which passes them to your app, browser or phone.
What to check
- Is the number private to you, or shared with other users?
- Is it from a national mobile, local or toll-free range?
- Can you keep it and renew it long term?
- Can you call and send SMS, or only receive?
How it applies to ZuteSIP
ZuteSIP numbers are often called virtual numbers because you use them online, but they are real, private numbers on national phone networks in 181 countries. Each includes unlimited incoming SMS and calls, SIP credentials, call forwarding and a web dialer, from $1.80 per month billed yearly ($21.60 per year).
What to check, answered for ZuteSIP
| Question | ZuteSIP |
|---|---|
| Private or shared? | Private numbers |
| Which range? | National mobile, local and toll-free ranges in 181 countries |
| Can you keep it? | Yes, renewed yearly from $1.80 per month billed yearly ($21.60 per year) |
| Call and send SMS? | Unlimited incoming SMS and calls, plus 500 outgoing SMS and 1,000 outgoing minutes per month |
Related terms
- Mobile number
- Non-VoIP number
- DID
- Temporary vs permanent numbers
Frequently asked questions
Is a virtual number a real phone number?
It can be. A ZuteSIP number is a real number on a national phone network that you simply use online.
Are ZuteSIP numbers shared?
No. Each number is yours alone; shared numbers are not offered.
Will a virtual number work for WhatsApp?
ZuteSIP numbers work with WhatsApp, Telegram, Google, Facebook and thousands more. If an app does not accept one, the 7-day replacement guarantee gives a free new number.
Is a virtual number the same as a free SMS site?
No. Free sites typically show shared numbers publicly; a paid private number receives codes only for you.