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IP Telephony- Are You Ready?

One of the most significant changes to the telecommunications industry in the past ten years is the introduction of IP Telephony. In considering the implementation of IP Telephony, as with any new technology, it is important for the end-user company to understand the features and benefits, as well as how to get started. Below is information and answers to some commonly asked questions:

1: What is IP Telephony?

IP Telephony is the ability to make calls over the Internet. In terms of business, it provides the ability to utilize a data network for all voice and data services. Carriers and Equipment Providers each have different solutions which are defined as Hosted PBX or IP Telephone System. The primary difference is in where the data is stored. In a Hosted PBX, the carrier hosts all of the intelligence at a remote site and, in contrast, an IP Telephone System requires the end-user to maintain the system at their location. Each solution has its advantages and should be evaluated for cost and functionality before making a decision.

2: What is the cost?

One of the most common misconceptions is that IP Telephony is free. For many companies, cost reductions or increased productivity can be realized from the feature rich systems available. Typically, monthly fees with a Hosted IP are fixed and with an IP Telephone System the monthly fees are variable.

3: How do I get started?

To best understand the impact of IP Telephony, it is recommended that a Network Assessment be performed. An assessment should determine the impact of voice and data traveling over the same local area network as well as establish the controls required to address security issues and performance factors such as Delay, Jitter, Echo, and Packet Loss.

Tech Tip provided by Scott Kushel of Safari Telecom (scottk@safaritelecom.com)