Voice over IP (VoIP) is still considered by many to be a cutting edge technology. Let’s get familiar with some of the factors encountered with this new voice technology. Every day Hosted VoIP Florida implements a new Hosted solution and we thought we would review some of the factors that we typically consider when reviewing VoIP implementation. Here are some of the various network factors that most small businesses will encounter with Hosted VoIP: 1. Bandwidth. Unlike traditional telephone systems that operate within their own old fashioned copper networks, VoIP relies on the LAN and WAN infrastructure on CAT 5/6 Ethernet connections. As such, a VoIP system shares bandwidth with existing business IP communications assets. While bandwidth is normally abundant in the local network (LAN) for internal purposes, the WAN is often the most constricted point for any network -- leading to increased potential for congestion and delays in information. For a business to execute a full conversion to Hosted VoIP, it typically must consider an increase in network bandwidth. The required amount of network bandwidth will differ by organization based on # of sites, projected users, business growth models and other WAN traffic-related activities. Overhead and interoffice communications should also be budgeted and analyzed in order to calculate the total costs of maintaining bandwidth and installing the right bandwidth solutions. Hosted VoIP Florida can analyze your bandwidth and suggest upgrades or a new solution based on your particular need.
2. Network Traffic. LAN traffic traditionally consists of delay-tolerant data packets that are barely affected by network congestion, loss or retransmission. VoIP data packets, however, are extremely delay-sensitive when compared with other applications. So adding a VoIP system to a network requires careful and objective assessment of the existing network infrastructure to verify that it can support the new VoIP data packets while maintaining quality-of-service levels. The operating system capability, interoperability and hardware are critical components that must be included in this network analysis to obtain a realistic estimate for implementation. Allow Hosted VoIP Florida to analyze your standard LAN traffic and formulate network space for VoIP traffic. 3. Security. It's no secret that everything on the Internet is susceptible to hacking, denial-of-service attacks and spying, and VoIP is no exception. So VoIP systems must be monitored and protected in the same manner as a traditional enterprise system or network. Most of the enterprise Hosted VoIP solutions we present have significant security protocols and standards. Security is not a relevant factor in a vast majority of cases due to the VoIP carrier security protocols already in place. 4. Hardware. A great advantage of Hosted VoIP is the small cost of handsets and hardware. Most carriers provide state of the art hardware for a low cost or FREE in exchange for a monthly seat cost. Another advantage of the VoIP is the ability to exchange traditional phones for applications on the computer, also known as a softphone. While softphones still require communication devices to converse (e.g. headsets), updating or expanding softphone systems involves only a software download. This simplified process significantly reduces costs associated with upgrading service on a traditional telephone system and allows businesses to quickly take advantage of innovative features. . 5. Training and Productivity. As with any new system or policy, implementation of VoIP includes user training. This is particularly important, as the switch to VoIP can cause some user concern at first. Hosted VoIP allows users to navigate voice mail, text, e-mails, conferencing and call features simultaneously on a single platform. Training is essential to assist users in acclimating to the new system, easing the overall transition and demonstrating both the business and individual value of the switch. All the carriers Hosted VoIP Florida utilizes emphasize excellent training methodology. It should be pointed out that all basic phone call features on a Hosted VoIP are the same as a traditional phone system so training is really targeted to more sophisticated features. 6. Mobility. VoIP's soft phone or smart phone applications feature offers frequently traveling employees the ability to take to turn their office phone into a mobile communication device and gives them the ability to make and take phone calls anywhere via the Internet. This capability effectively reduces administration costs by decreasing separate phone lines required at satellite office locations. In addition, mobile workers are more accessible, whether overseas or a few blocks away. The ability to FORWARD calls or have a call “find you or follow you” anywhere on a cell phone or another office means a customer can always reach you no matter your physical location. Hosted VoIP Florida is the leading Hosted VoIP provider in the state of Florida and has dozens of VoIP options for any size business or enterprise from a couple of users to over 1,000.
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January 2018
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