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What Does My Business Need to be Aware of with VoIP? | Part 2

In Part One, we discussed the main benefits of VoIP (Voice over IP) technology. This week we will cover a few tips for avoiding VoIP pitfalls. If you’re considering implementing a VoIP system, or already have a VoIP system and want to know what to watch out for, this article will be beneficial.

Below you will find 4 precautions that you can take to ensure that your new VoIP system performs at its full potential.

4 Tips to Avoid the Pitfalls

1. Secure Your Network

Sending calls over a wireless network can pose security risks. When data travels through the airwaves it can be compromised if the right precautions have not been taken. As VoIP accumulates more users, it becomes a target for hackers to digitally jeopardize your transmissions and your VoIP system.

Ensure that your Wi-Fi is equipped with current security wireless protocols and firewalls. Be thorough. Use authentication and encryption security technologies to protect your VoIP traffic.

2. Ensure You Have the Appropriate Network Infrastructure.

Quality of Service (QoS) is important. With VoIP, outdated networks and equipment aren’t going to cut it. If your connection is not dependable, your communication will suffer.

Since VoIP operates in real-time, it is susceptible to disruptions resulting from a poor network. Using VoIP on a slow network can cause voice distortion, echoes, data loss, and delays.

To avoid these issues, you must have sufficient bandwidth to handle the increased demands on the network. You should also install a quality, reliable wireless system that is designed to accommodate voice traffic and prioritize VoIP data, as you will find that each application requires varying degrees of bandwidth.

A robust system can be achieved by using the latest network switching technology with PoE (Power of Ethernet), and having a well-designed and implemented cabling system. These network infrastructure components will increase the reliability and capacity of your VoIP system, as well as your wireless network.

Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) allows you to have dedicated bandwidth for your voice traffic and maintain high call quality. SIP helps you use your bandwidth to its maximum potential.

3. Leave it to the Professionals

Some companies want to bypass the costs of hiring someone qualified to handle the installation of their VoIP systems. While this may seem like a cost-effective strategy from the outset, it can quickly degenerate and become wrought with unforeseen problems.

Professionals know what they are doing, and they do it well. They are aware of all the small details that go into the process of connecting all of the equipment properly, setting up employee access, integrating VoIP with your network, and building in safeguards. Their knowledge and experience makes the transition go much more smoothly, without the guess-work.

Research the companies that provide VoIP services and installation until you find one that is reputable, trustworthy, and experienced.

4. Have a Backup Plan

If your network goes down, your VoIP goes down with it. It could be a thunderstorm that cuts out power or network hardware failure. Either way, you need to have a backup plan – just in case.

Power system components, such as lighting protection, power conditioning, and an ‘Uninterruptable Power Supply’ (UPS), are critical components to a reliable network. These components will ensure uptime, and allow for proper system shutdown while protecting your network components from voltage surges. Avoid often fatal system failure by implementing a proper power system design.

Redundancy can be built in to your VoIP system by having your phone equipment both on premise and in the cloud. You can also have redundant internet/bandwidth connections. If one fails, your phone system automatically switches over to the redundant system, keeping you connected.

If you’ve followed our VoIP series so far, you now understand the important benefits and risks associated with VoIP technology.

Stay tuned for our next blog, about the different types of VoIP systems and features.

Activo builds comprehensive VoIP business solutions: equipment, installation, security, network services, and maintenance. With our expertise, we can advise your business on the best systems and devices for your voice communication needs.

>> Contact us if you have any questions about how Activo can help your company reap the benefits of VoIP technology.

 

Posted in, Bandwidth

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