Can my internet handle VoIP?

The Voice over Internet Protocol technology, as we know, allows users to make calls over the existing internet network or infrastructure. So, how do we determine whether the networks available in our area can support VoIP services? Also, what are the requirements for installing a VoIP system? And what are the benefits and costs of VoIP? Let’s take a look at some of the key points that should be considered for VoIP to function on a particular network.

Key Requirements for VoIP

 

Network Internet Connection

As we know, VoIP relies on the internet, so it is one of the main prerequisites for establishing VoIP communication. The options available include both wired internet infrastructure based on broadband services and wireless internet, such as Wi-Fi modems. Both systems utilise their specific hardware to establish VoIP services. In the case of wired broadband services, Ethernet cables and a VoIP gateway can be used. On the other hand, the wireless network utilises wireless internet modems in addition to Ethernet cables and VoIP gateways.

Network Bandwidth

Once the network is connected to the internet, an analysis shall be conducted to determine the number of VoIP devices that need to be integrated into the system. The increase in device numbers may slow the network and cause problems such as congestion, especially if the internet connection bandwidth is low. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the network bandwidth to ensure a specific spare percentage, allowing devices to function properly. It is recommended to allocate 0.1 Mbps of bandwidth per device/phone.

VoIP Service Provider

For a VoIP system to work, a VoIP service provider has to be selected. Communication between VoIP phones or devices is made possible through the connection provided by the VoIP service provider, as they allocate numbers and allow you to make calls to each other’s devices.

Benefits and Costs for VoIP

A VoIP system offers several benefits to businesses and localities where ease of communication is a priority.

• One of the benefits of VoIP is the ease of installing and operating devices. VoIP can be deployed relatively quickly due to the presence of the internet network infrastructure, as it only needs to be plugged into gateways to function properly.
• VoIP devices can be PoE-enabled, reducing cabling costs by powering and transferring data over a single Ethernet cable.
• The overall cost of use in comparison to other voice call options makes VoIP a budget-friendly service for businesses. The service provider's per-call charges are also lower than those for traditional telephone service.
• VoIP supports features such as conference calls and call queues, which are beneficial in business environments.

The costs associated with VoIP include the service provider fee, internet bandwidth, cabling, and VoIP hardware. Some of the devices needed for VoIP communication could be costly such as the PoE-enabled VoIP devices, network switches, and gateways.

If you are considering a VoIP system or want some help and advice, just call us to speak to one of our engineers.

Case Study

Data Cabling Testing for a New VoIP System in a Commercial Office in London

Read more about VoIP system Installation here