Wi-Fi calling uses a wireless network instead of a cellular tower to place voice calls. It can be helpful in places with weak reception—like basements, warehouses, or remote sites—but some tradeoffs come with it.

The most common disadvantages of Wi-Fi calling show up when the network isn’t built to handle voice. In those cases, alternatives like neutral-host CBRS offer more reliable coverage without relying on public Wi-Fi.

In this post, you can look forward to:

• A breakdown of what Wi-Fi calling is and how it works
• How it compares to VoIP and traditional cellular service
• Key advantages like cost savings and better indoor coverage
• The most common disadvantages of Wi-Fi calling in real-world settings
• Practical alternatives, including dual SIMs, signal boosters, and neutral-host CBRS
• Answers to frequently asked questions about security, compatibility, and call quality
• How Meter builds networks that eliminate the usual pitfalls of Wi-Fi calling

What is Wi-Fi calling?

Wi-Fi calling uses a wireless internet connection to place voice calls, instead of relying on a nearby cellular tower. Most smartphones now support it natively—there’s no need to install a separate app. Once enabled in your settings, your phone automatically uses Wi-Fi for calls when cellular coverage is weak.

It’s especially useful indoors, in basements, or in buildings where towers—and even 5G—can’t reach reliably. For more on how it compares, check out our guide on Wi-Fi vs. 5G.

How Wi-Fi calling works

Wi-Fi calling converts your voice into data packets and sends them over your Wi-Fi network to your carrier’s servers, which then route the call to the recipient.

The call is still processed by your cellular carrier, using your phone number and native dialer. There’s no extra login or number involved.

If you move between Wi-Fi and cellular coverage mid-call, some phones (and carriers) support call handoff—others will drop the call. Performance depends on how your device and network are configured.

What’s the difference between Wi-Fi calling and VoIP?

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Wi-Fi calling is a carrier-supported feature that uses a Wi-Fi network to route voice calls through your cellular provider. It works directly through your phone’s dialer using your mobile number.

VoIP (voice over internet protocol) covers internet-based calling services like Zoom, Skype, and Google Voice. These platforms often require separate apps and don’t rely on your cellular carrier.

Wi-Fi calling feels like regular calling. VoIP is usually more flexible but often less integrated with your mobile workflow.

Check out our guide on LTE vs. Wi-Fi for a deeper dive into the specifics.

Pros and cons of Wi-Fi calling at a glance

Advantages of Wi-Fi calling

The benefits of Wi-Fi calling show up in buildings where cellular coverage falls short. It gives mobile users more flexibility, reduces costs, and removes friction when switching between networks.

Better indoor coverage

Wi-Fi calling works well in buildings with poor cellular reception.

We’ve seen it help teams in warehouses, concrete-heavy structures, and high-rises with signal dead zones. Instead of stepping outside to get one bar, users stay connected anywhere Wi-Fi reaches.

When access points are placed correctly, Wi-Fi often beats cellular indoors.

Cost savings

Wi-Fi calling can lower costs, especially on international calls.

Some carriers treat Wi-Fi calls like domestic ones, even when you’re abroad. That helps remote workers and frequent travelers avoid roaming fees. Businesses with international contacts often see a noticeable drop in phone charges.

Just check the fine print—some providers still charge international rates, depending on where the call terminates.

No extra setup required

Wi-Fi calling works through your phone’s default dialer—no apps or new logins needed. Once you turn it on in settings, your phone will automatically switch to Wi-Fi when the signal is better than cellular.

We prefer how hands-off it feels. No need to manage third-party tools or separate contact lists.

Call quality improvements (in some cases)

Wi-Fi can improve voice quality when cellular networks are weak or congested.

A stable network with strong Wi-Fi throughput and low latency can carry voice data more clearly than a weak LTE signal. This reduces dropouts and distortion, especially in dense buildings.

We’ve seen call quality improve just by adding access points and prioritizing voice traffic with QoS settings.

Disadvantages of Wi-Fi calling

Wi-Fi calling works well under the right conditions—but those conditions aren’t guaranteed. It relies heavily on the quality of the network around you. That makes it unpredictable in public spaces, hard to rely on for emergencies, and sometimes a drain on your phone’s battery.

Wi-Fi dependent = unreliable in some situations

Wi-Fi calling breaks down when the network is unstable. If the signal is weak, or if internet bandwidth is tight, calls may lag or drop. The connection also competes with laptops, cameras, and other devices—so congestion causes real problems.

We’ve seen this firsthand in offices with poor enterprise Wi-Fi design—like using a single access point for both guest and internal traffic. If the Wi-Fi isn’t tuned to support voice, performance suffers.

Not always available in public places

Many public Wi-Fi networks block or limit Wi-Fi calling. Some filter out the ports it needs to function. Others use firewalls or carrier-grade NAT that interferes with call setup. Even when connections go through, performance is hit-or-miss due to heavy usage or weak signal.

If you rely on public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, or hotels, don’t expect consistent call quality.

Compatibility issues with some devices and carriers

Not every phone or carrier supports Wi-Fi calling. Older devices may lack support, or require manual configuration. Some international or unlocked phones ship with the feature disabled. A few carriers only offer it on postpaid plans, or need you to activate it manually.

We’ve worked with clients who couldn’t access Wi-Fi calling simply because their device was region-locked.

Emergency services limitations

Wi-Fi calling doesn’t always send accurate location data to 911. Some carriers ask you to enter a fixed address during setup. If you’re on the move or in a large building, that static info may be wrong. It also adds a step you have to remember to update.

For any space with multiple floors or shared offices, we recommend having a backup connection—either a landline or cellular device that’s always location-aware.

Higher battery consumption

Wi-Fi calling can increase battery drain in some cases. Phones using Wi-Fi calling often toggle between Wi-Fi and LTE during marginal coverage. That switching process uses more power, especially in buildings with uneven signals.

We’ve seen users in older buildings or fringe zones notice their phones running down faster by mid-afternoon.

Security risks on public Wi-Fi

Open networks don’t always protect your call data. If Wi-Fi calling runs over an unsecured network, it may be vulnerable to spoofing, sniffing, or man-in-the-middle attacks. These are rare but possible—especially if encryption or certificate checks fail.

We recommend using a VPN when connecting over public Wi-Fi, or skipping Wi-Fi calling entirely when you're on shared networks.

Why use Wi-Fi calling?

If you're wondering if Wi-Fi calling is good, it works best when you have strong, private Wi-Fi and spotty cell coverage. It’s a good fit for offices, warehouses, or remote work setups where mobile signals fall short. Travelers may also save money—some carriers treat Wi-Fi calls as local, even when you’re abroad.

Wi-Fi calling isn’t ideal if you rely on emergency calls, switch networks often, or need secure calling on public Wi-Fi. Network changes can cause dropouts, and public networks aren’t always safe for voice traffic.

We recommend testing it in your actual environment before using it for anything important.

Are there alternative solutions to Wi-Fi calling?

If Wi-Fi calling isn’t reliable or doesn’t fit your needs, other options can improve mobile coverage.

Use dual-SIM phones

Dual-SIM devices let you stay connected to two networks at once. You can route calls through one carrier and use data on another.

If one signal drops, you can switch without swapping SIMs. This helps in buildings where different carriers perform better on different floors.

Try a signal booster

Signal boosters amplify weak cellular signals and rebroadcast them indoors.

They work best when there’s at least one bar of signal outside to draw from. You’ll need proper placement for the external antenna, but they’re effective in rural areas and concrete-heavy buildings.

Switch to a better carrier

If your current provider has poor coverage, try one with stronger local infrastructure. Even if multiple carriers share towers, performance can differ due to load balancing or prioritization. Some MVNOs (like Google Fi or Visible) roam between networks and may give you more flexibility.

Deploy neutral-host CBRS

Neutral-host CBRS lets you build a private LTE or 5G network that supports multiple carriers.

It’s a smart option in buildings where Wi-Fi calling breaks down and cellular signals can’t reach. Users get a native mobile experience—with better voice quality, reliable call handoffs, and proper emergency support.

We offer this through Meter’s Cellular, our managed CBRS network that covers every carrier. It’s built for offices, warehouses, campuses, and any space where phones need to stay connected—without draining Wi-Fi bandwidth or depending on personal hotspots.

Frequently asked questions

Does Wi-Fi calling work internationally?

Yes, but it depends on your carrier. Some treat Wi-Fi calls as domestic, while others still charge international rates.

Does Wi-Fi calling use my cellular minutes?

Usually it doesn’t. Most carriers exclude Wi-Fi calls from your monthly voice minutes, but some have exceptions.

Is Wi-Fi calling secure?

It’s generally secure on private, encrypted networks. Public Wi-Fi can expose calls to security risks if the connection isn’t protected.

Why does my Wi-Fi calling keep dropping?

The Wi-Fi network may be unstable or overloaded. Voice traffic struggles when there’s high latency, packet loss, or inconsistent coverage.

Do all carriers support Wi-Fi calling?

No, support varies by carrier and device. Some carriers require activation or only allow it on select plans and phones.

Meter for reliable enterprise Wi-Fi calling

Most disadvantages of Wi-Fi calling come from weak networks or poor setup. We build networks that fix that from the start.

Meter handles the hardware, installation, and ongoing support—so voice traffic works the way it should. Our system is built to handle real-world use, without putting extra strain on your IT team.

Key features of Meter Network include:

• Vertically integrated: Meter-built access points, switches, and security appliances work together to create a cohesive, stress-free network management experience.
• Managed experience: Meter provides user support and done-with-you network management to reduce the burden on in-house networking teams.
• Hassle-free installation: Simply provide a floor plan, and Meter’s team will plan, install, and maintain your network.
• Software: Use Meter’s purpose-built dashboard for deep visibility and granular control of your network, or create custom dashboards with a prompt using Meter Command.
• OpEx pricing: Instead of investing upfront in equipment, Meter charges a simple monthly subscription fee based on your square footage. When it’s time to upgrade your network, Meter provides complimentary new equipment and installation.
• Easy migration and expansion: As you grow, Meter will expand your network with new hardware or entirely relocate your network to a new location free of charge.

To learn more, schedule a demo with Meter.