What Is WebRTC? Business Communication Explained

WebRTC is one of those technologies businesses use every day without realizing it.

If you’ve ever joined a video call in your browser, clicked a “call now” button on a website, or used cloud-based communication without installing software—there’s a good chance WebRTC was doing the heavy lifting.

Let’s break down what it actually is, why it matters, and how it fits into modern business communication.

Explore more related guides in our Unified Communications & UCaaS Resources.

What Does WebRTC Stand For?

WebRTC stands for Web Real-Time Communication.

At a high level, it allows:

• Voice calls

• Video calls

• Data sharing

…directly between browsers and apps without plugins or downloads.

That simplicity is why WebRTC has become foundational to modern communication platforms.

How WebRTC Works (Plain English Version)

WebRTC uses standardized web technologies to:

• Connect users directly

• Transmit audio and video in real time

• Adjust dynamically to network conditions

Instead of relying on traditional phone infrastructure, WebRTC leverages the internet and modern browsers to handle communication efficiently and securely.

This approach aligns perfectly with how UCaaS platforms operate. For the bigger picture, learn more about What UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service) is.

Where Businesses Encounter WebRTC

Most businesses don’t “buy” WebRTC—it’s embedded inside tools they already use.

Common examples include:

• Browser-based video meetings

• Click-to-call buttons on websites

• Web-based softphones

• Customer support chat with voice or video escalation

If it feels instant and doesn’t require installation, WebRTC is probably involved.

WebRTC vs Traditional Communication Methods

Traditional systems depend on:

• Phone lines

• Dedicated hardware

• Installed software

WebRTC removes many of those dependencies.

This flexibility is one reason WebRTC plays such a big role in cloud phone systems vs PBX.

Why WebRTC Matters for UCaaS

WebRTC isn’t a replacement for UCaaS—it’s an enabler.

UCaaS platforms use WebRTC to:

• Deliver browser-based calling

• Support video meetings without plugins

• Reduce friction for remote users

• Enable quick access from anywhere

This directly supports commonly used UCaaS features and improves mobility and flexibility.

WebRTC and Remote or Hybrid Teams

WebRTC shines in distributed environments.

Benefits include:

• No software installs on managed or unmanaged devices

• Faster onboarding for new users

• Easier access for external participants

That’s why UCaaS is so effective for hybrid teams – it’s powered by WebRTC.

Security Considerations with WebRTC

WebRTC was designed with security in mind.

Key security features include:

• Mandatory encryption

• Secure key exchange

• Browser-level sandboxing

That said, WebRTC security still depends on:

• Proper configuration

• Secure networks

• Strong access controls

This ties into the broader conversation about UCaaS security.

Limitations Businesses Should Understand

WebRTC isn’t magic.

Potential considerations include:

• Dependence on browser performance

• Network quality sensitivity

• Limited offline capability

For most business use cases, these are manageable—but they should be understood.

WebRTC vs VoIP: How They Work Together

WebRTC doesn’t replace VoIP—it complements it.

• VoIP handles traditional calling

• WebRTC enables browser-based communication

Together, they power modern platforms discussed in UCaaS vs VoIP.

When WebRTC Adds Real Business Value

WebRTC is especially valuable when:

• Users need instant access without setup

• External participants join calls frequently

• IT wants to reduce endpoint complexity

• Speed and flexibility matter

These advantages translate directly into better responsiveness and improved customer experience outcomes.

The Bottom Line

WebRTC isn’t a buzzword—it’s infrastructure.

It quietly powers many of the communication experiences businesses now take for granted, especially inside UCaaS platforms. When implemented correctly, it reduces friction, improves accessibility, and supports the way modern teams actually work.

That’s exactly what good technology should do.

If you’re evaluating WebRTC inside a real deployment, see WebRTC for UCaaS Solutions from CNiC.

David McFarlane Founder & CEO

As Founder and CEO of CNiC Solutions, David McFarlane has spent more than 15 years guiding Houston-area organizations through complex IT and cybersecurity challenges. His hands-on leadership ensures technology decisions align with business goals, risk management, and operational efficiency.

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