Features & Benefits of VOIP
What
is VoIP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to
make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of
a regular phone line. VoIP services convert the voice signal from your
telephone into packets that travel over the Internet. With
VoIP, you can call from PC to PC, PC to VoIP phone, or VoIP phone to ordinary
phone via an Internet service provider. VoIP is popular for international
calling, enabling you to call from virtually anywhere.
Since it is apparent that all communications will be IP based within the
next 10 years, it makes good sense to begin the shift toward VoIP as soon
as possible. Investing in a VoIP solution today that provides inter-operability
with the new technologies that are available over the next several years
makes a lot of sense.
VoIP Benefits
1. Reduced Costs
Cost reduction in operating a VoIP system covers just about all areas
of the business:
·
Simplicity: VoIP transmission combines voice and data.
· Lower
long distance rates: VoIP only requires one Internet connection.
· Capacity: VoIP better utilizes
your network for less.
· Global outsourcing: International
call centers rely on VoIP.
· Automatic
routing: Receive calls automatically to your VoIP phone.
· Portability: Travel with your VoIP
phones.
2.
One Wiring system
Instead of separate wiring for telephones and separate wiring for data,
all data and voice are on the LAN. There is usually plenty of bandwidth
available on a well-designed LAN. (pure IP enviroment)
3. Web based administration
With a VoIP system, all system administration functions are performed
on the network usually through a browser based administration program.
This means that the system can be modified from anywhere if required.
4. Leveraging the Internet for telephone calls
When calls flow over the Internet, long distance charges are avoided.
This is great for remote workers who can stay connected to the office
all the time without incurring any additional charges.
5. Remote users
For the increasing number of mobile connected employees, VoIP applications
offer the ability to collaborate with team members, stay connected with
customers, vendors and coworkers in real time - regardless of geographical
location. If an employee is at a remote office in Edmonton and a call
comes into the corporate headquarters in Calgary, the call can be directed
to the employee in Edmonton just as if that person were in Calgary. The
use of the corporate communication resources such as voice mail, automated
attendant and email are all centralized simplifying all support and maintenance.
6.
Private Instant messaging
Instant Messaging is a great corporate tool when used properly. With a
VoIP system, Instant Messaging can be limited to corporate business eliminating
some of the security issues associated with public Instant Messaging sites
and provides complete control to management.
7. Peer to Peer phone calls
All calls are Peer to Peer. This is a big advantage over the traditional
PSTN. The call is set up by the VoIP server then the call flows between
the two endpoints. All of the voice or video traffic is direct between
the two endpoints reducing the congestion at the server.
8. Peer to Peer Video
Video sessions can be set up between endpoints.
9. Presence Management
VoIP applications can take advantage of presence management. This is a
function of the system that allows users to set how other users view their
presence on the system. Most systems have tremendous flexibility. This
is not too different from using the "do not disturb" button
on your telephone, but it really comes into its own when using a soft
phone.
10. Investment Protection
VoIP and in particular SIP based VoIP products offer investment protection.
Expandable
hardware technology lets you upgrade VoIP systems quickly and easily
as new technology emerges, providing peace of mind that your investment
now is protected for the future.
According to CompTIA, about 60% of small and midsized businesses will
deploy or evaluate VoIP systems over the next 18 months.
VIEW
NEC'S EXPLANATION OF VoIP
