What Are DID Numbers?

DID (Direct Inward Dialing) numbers are virtual phone numbers that route calls over the internet (VoIP) rather than through traditional copper phone lines. They look and work exactly like regular phone numbers to the caller — the difference is in how they're delivered to you.

What Are Regular Phone Numbers?

Regular phone numbers (PSTN numbers) are tied to physical phone lines or SIM cards. Each number requires a dedicated line, and adding new numbers means installing new hardware. They're provided by traditional telecom carriers with long-term contracts.

Key Differences

Infrastructure

Regular numbers need physical infrastructure — copper lines, phone jacks, and on-site equipment. DID numbers work over the internet, requiring only a VoIP phone or softphone app.

Location

Regular numbers are tied to a physical address. DID numbers can be from any country and ring anywhere in the world. Get a US number that rings in Europe.

Scalability

Regular numbers: Adding a line takes days or weeks and requires installation. DID numbers: Add a new number in 60 seconds, no installation needed.

Features

Regular numbers offer basic call forwarding and voicemail. DID numbers from DIDfarm include visual call flow builder, IVR menus, ring groups, call queues, voicemail-to-email, SMS, and API access.

Cost

Regular numbers: EUR 20-50/month per line, plus setup fees and long-term contracts. DID numbers: From EUR 1.49/month per number, no setup fees, no contracts.

When to Choose DID Numbers

  • You need phone numbers in multiple countries
  • Your team works remotely or from multiple locations
  • You want advanced call routing (IVR, queues, time-based routing)
  • You need to scale up or down quickly
  • You want to avoid hardware and long-term contracts

When Regular Numbers Still Make Sense

  • You have a single office with a reliable ISDN connection
  • You need emergency services (112/911) tied to a physical location
  • Your internet connection is unreliable

Getting Started with DID Numbers

Switching from regular phone numbers to DID numbers is straightforward. Browse our catalog of numbers in 70+ countries, or check coverage for your region. Most numbers activate instantly, and you can keep your existing numbers by porting them.