There are different opinions regarding the VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or IP (Internet Protocol) telephone services within the communications industry today. Perspectives vary much dependent on which provider or vendor you are speaking with. It is essential to consider different issues when planning any type of IP integration or migration, the first being what terminology is being used. In its most simple format, VoIP is the transporting of signals and voice data using an IP network. IP telephony is the strategy that allows this procedure to be transferred utilizing the IP network. The second consideration to make is the development of a strategy on how both or either of the technologies can be used, while still maintaining a degree of redundancy and acceptable voice quality.
When VoIP was introduced to the communications industry during the mid-nineties, it was first advertised as the end to all long distance charges. Decades later, this is not the case. While they may have dealt with tough times, the long distance carriers continue to exist and all people continue to pay long distance charges in some way. The fact is that when a person uses VoIP in a capacity where voice data is transferred over an unmanaged network without the quality of service (QoS), such as the Internet, the results are typically poor. The reason for this QoS is quite simple.
The internet protocols were not designed for real-time of media.
Any traditional voice transfer using circuit switched networks provides a constant connection between the parties for the duration of the long distance call. The IP networks, such as a packet switched network on the Internet, typically allow data to be sent in the form of packets to be transferred in the best route or routes available. Hypothetically, this data can be sent using the Internet and its packets can be split using different methods, then arriving at the final destination in a separate order than it was originally sent.
Based on these things, such as IP addressing and packet headers, this is not an issue in the data industry because this is not a real-time transfer. A piece of data, such as email, can be reassembled once it reaches the final destination appearing normal to the final user. If voice data were considered to operate in the same way as textual data, then what would be found at the final destination would be inaudible conversations with garbled speech.
How the communications industry has helped long distance data transfer is by setting up parameters for quality of service. This includes different techniques, which can vary according to the vendor or service provider. Two popular themes behind the QoS include queuing and packet tagging.
Packet tagging allows network appliances to assign specific priorities to different types of traffic; thereby, providing any type of real-time traffic to be provided higher priority than the non-real time traffic (such as data).
Network devices will read these packet tags and send out the high priority packets before any low priority packets. This can be done alongside queuing. The queues are utilized so the packet waiting has a place to “wait in line”. When looking at VoIP, speak to the technology vendor and ensure they have a means of doing this effectively.
What are the benefits of VoIP?
There are several benefits of using enterprise VoIP, including:
Cost savings: VoIP often costs less than traditional phone systems because it uses the internet to transmit calls instead of dedicated phone lines. This can result in significant cost savings, particularly for long-distance or international calls.
Scalability: VoIP is easily scalable to accommodate business growth and changing needs, without requiring additional physical infrastructure. This makes it a more flexible and cost-effective solution than traditional phone systems.
Mobility: With VoIP, employees can access their phone system from anywhere with an internet connection, using their laptop or smartphone. This means they can work from home or on the go while still remaining connected to the office phone system.
Feature-rich: VoIP offers a wide range of advanced features, such as call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and video conferencing. These features can help businesses improve communication and increase productivity.
Integration: VoIP can integrate with other business applications, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software. This can provide additional functionality and efficiency for businesses.
Centralized management: VoIP can be managed from a single web-based interface, making it easier to monitor and control. This centralization can save time and resources for businesses.
High quality: VoIP provides high-quality voice calls, with minimal latency and no dropped calls. This means that businesses can rely on their phone system to provide clear and consistent communication.
Enterprise VoIP FAQs
What is the difference between VoIP and phone call?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a digital form of communication that uses the internet to make and receive calls, while a phone call is an analog form of communication using traditional telephone lines.
How much does it cost to implement enterprise VoIP?
The cost of implementing enterprise VoIP can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the system, number of users, bandwidth requirements but typically ranges from around $500-$5,000 per month.
Are Google numbers considered VoIP?
Yes, Google numbers are considered VoIP, as they use Voice over Internet Protocol technology to make and receive calls.
Can you use VoIP without a provider?
Yes, it is possible to use VoIP without a provider by setting up your own server and connecting it to the internet.
What are the different types of VoIP?
There are four main types of VoIP: SIP Trunking, IP PBXs, Hosted VoIP, and Softphones.