Our verdict: Linphone is a solid choice when you need a standards-based SIP client that also handles video, chat and encryption. It works with most PBXs and SIP providers, and Belledonne offers free sip.linphone.org accounts for testing. Group chat and conferences need a compatible server, so with an ordinary SIP provider you mostly get calls.
About Linphone
Linphone has been developed in France since 2001 by Belledonne Communications. It is open source under the GNU GPL v3, and the company sells a proprietary license and white-label versions to businesses. The desktop app is built with Qt for Windows, macOS and Linux.
Linphone uses the SIP standard, so it works with most IP-PBXs and VoIP providers. Calls can be encrypted with SRTP, ZRTP or DTLS-SRTP. The setup wizard can create a free account on sip.linphone.org or connect your own SIP account. Group messaging and conferences rely on Belledonne's Flexisip server.
What it does well
- HD audio and video calls. Voice and video calls over SIP with a range of audio and video codecs.
- Encryption. SRTP, ZRTP and DTLS-SRTP for calls; end-to-end encrypted messaging on compatible servers.
- Instant messaging. One-to-one chat with SIP SIMPLE, and group chats on Flexisip servers.
- Meetings. Group calls and video conferences when used with a compatible server.
- Directories. Sync contacts from LDAP and CardDAV address books.
Who it is for
Good fit
Office and home users who need a SIP softphone with video and encryption for a PBX or VoIP provider.
Look elsewhere
People who want a consumer messenger with contacts found by phone number.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Works with standard SIP providers and PBXs
- Call encryption with SRTP and ZRTP
- Free SIP account available
- Open source
Cons
- Group chat and meetings need a Flexisip-compatible server
- SIP setup can confuse non-technical users
- Large installer for a softphone
How to install Linphone
The button downloads the latest official 64-bit Windows installer from linphone.org. On first start the assistant offers to create a free sip.linphone.org account or to sign in with your own SIP provider's details; ask your provider for the server, username and transport.
Questions about Linphone
Is Linphone free?
Yes. Linphone is open source under the GNU GPL v3 and free to use. Belledonne sells commercial licenses only to companies that want closed-source versions.
Do I need a SIP account to use Linphone?
Yes. You can create a free account on sip.linphone.org from the app or use an account from your own VoIP provider or office PBX.
Does Linphone encrypt calls?
Yes. It supports SRTP, ZRTP and DTLS-SRTP for voice and video, if the other side and the server support them too.
