As our phone systems switch over to VoIP technology, so more and more businesses are starting to adopt SIP trunking, but there’s still some confusion surrounding what it is and what it does.
BT is due to switch off the old PSTN and ISDN networks by 2025 so ultimately everyone will be switched to VoIP technology. But many are choosing to make the move sooner as it offers a number of advantages. For businesses, that usually means adopting SIP trunking; here are some of the most common questions surrounding it.
1 What is SIP trunking?
SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol; it’s how calls are transmitted to their destination. SIP trunking allows voice traffic to be routed over the internet and still connect to the traditional network.
2 Is it the same as VoIP?
It’s related, but although SIP trunking is a way of delivering VoIP, it isn’t the only one available.
3 What’s the advantage for business?
SIP trunking lowers connection and call costs by allowing you to take advantage of an international VoIP wholesale provider such as https://www.idtexpress.com/blog/2018/02/27/expect-international-voip-wholesale-provider/. It also makes it easier to expand call capacity as the business grows or to take advantage of demand peaks. It also works as part of an integrated communication system, so you can take advantage of video calling, mobile integration and more.
4 is there a difference in call quality?
Since most of the backbone network now uses fibre optics, the call quality when using SIP trunking is generally indistinguishable from ordinary phone connections.
5 What about set-up and maintenance?
Setting up SIP trunking is relatively straightforward. It is supported on most new PBX systems, but it also offers the chance to run your phone system from the cloud and do away with an in-house PBX completely, saving on power and maintenance.
6 Is it costly to install?
SIP trunking may be already compatible with your PBX in which case you can continue to use it. You will also need a network switch capable of handling voice and data traffic if you don’t already have one. Other costs may come from the service provider’s initial set-up fees; there may also be charges for some features like direct incoming dialling. Even so, the costs of setting up a SIP trunked business phone system is likely to be lower than traditional solutions.