Now, there are many things in the world of telecommunication that sound puzzling. It's a vast network-pun intended- and so there are many definitions and numerous explanations for everything. Let's try to keep it simple and not delve into the technicalities.
VoIP is short form for Voice Over Internet Protocol. Also known as Voice Over IP. Stripped down to its basics, it's a protocol that allows telephone calls over the Internet. Any computer based network really, but for all intents and purposes it's really over the Internet. So think about any application that lets you place calls over the Internet- Skype, Viber, Whatsapp- and you can see why it's important.
How Does It Work?
Communication through VoIP has many of the same steps and principles as normal telephone communication: signalling, channel set up, digitalization of voice input, and encoding.
However, VoIP uses two different telephony protocols for handling connections. These two protocols are SIP and H.323. Most VoIP systems can support both protocols. Skype has its own unique connection- it offers a closed, private network that allows free calls to take place, while charging for telephone services that connect to the public switched telephone network. (i.e. normal not-over-the-internet telephone network).
VoIP applications can be used with a simple microphone and computer speakers but can also be used provided IP telephones or VoIP boxes are present.
Why You Should Use VoIP
One of the major advantages of VoIP is that you don't have to pay extra for your calls, beyond what you are paying for Internet service. For example, with a data package on your smartphone you can make as many calls over WhatsApp or Viber as you want. (Until your data runs out that is!) Otherwise, using normal telephone networks incurs a charge every time you make a call.
Additionally, VoIP can be divided into categories. There are enterprise VoIP services which offer advanced features such as conference calling, desk to desk calling, etc. They may even offer another layer of security such as IPsec encryption for confidential calls. Business VoIP offers many of the same services as enterprise VoIP services but on a smaller scale. Both business and enterprise VoIP services often have tiered usage plans and allow for multiple calls at the same time. Business VoIP services can further be limited to hosted VoIP services which re-route and manage calls from the subscriber’s existing telephony system. This saves money for the business as it doesn't face the extra charges of VoIP equipment and management.
Where Did It Begin?
VoIP services were introduced to the consumer market during 2004. There was a major movement to utilize VoIP services using existing broadband connections. Now, VoIP phones are available and most smartphones can access these services over 3G/4G and Wi-Fi.
Some Of The Downfalls?
The problems of VoIP services are the same faced by any Internet based system: security. Hackers can therefore access and distort calls, customer data and record messages. Consumer VoIP services typically don't offer encryption of the signaling path or media which means it's pretty easy to eavesdrop on VoIP serviced calls, especially over public data networks. Plus, the quality of VoIP services depends on internet connection. So if you live/visit remote places where the connection isn't too good, your calls won't be either.
On the flip side, it's theoretically easier to secure VoIP phones than traditional telephones. Also, governments and military organizations use various security measures to secure VoIP traffic. These measures include Voice Over secure IP (VoSIP), secure voice over IP (SVoIP) and others.
So really, like all other Internet using services, it's got its drawbacks. However, there’s not many that would argue that it is not the future of telecommunications.
Want To Know More?
To find out more about VoIP and how it can help your business or if its the right fit for it, then feel free to contact the Loopback experts using the below form. Alternatively, you can fill in the Free Analysis form in order for someone to come out and give your business the complete IT Infrastructure analysis.
