The advantages of VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) are quickly being recognized by the average consumer and the relatively new technology is quickly becoming the norm for many businesses and homes around the world. Callers can now make long distance calls without having to pay much, if anything.
Combine VoIP with the technology of broadband, high speed, or internet access and VoIP provides an easy, inexpensive way to make phone calls.
As the technology has advanced and become more affordable and reliable, many businesses have begun rapidly adopting it. In order to fully understand the growing technology of VoIP, it is helpful to understand a few of the key terms experts use in reference to this trend:
POTS – Plain Old Telephone System. Many smaller businesses and homes still use this system, which operates on analog or (phone line).
ATA – Analog Telephone Adaptor. About the size of a thumb drive, this adaptor plugs into a normal phone to allow it to connect with the VoIP network and send calls over the internet.
PBX – Private Branch Exchange. This is an internal company phone system that allows phone calls to different lines, with an answering service, automated menus, voicemail, and call transfers. It is considered like a complete system that controls everything related to your phones.
Bandwidth – Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted over the internet or communication line in a given amount of time. It is measured in bits per second. The higher the number, the higher and faster the communications will be.
CTI – Computer Telephone Integration. With this system, your phone can directly interact with other computers. You could make a call directly from Outlook mail or send the voice mail to your email inbox.
QoS – Quality of Service. This is the ability of a VoIP network to deliver traffic with a minimal amount of downtime and the highest quality.
Find-me/Follow-me – This service can find you wherever you are. It can forward calls to that location or the phone closest to you, such as a mobile or home phone.
Understanding and implementing VoIP in your business can be a simple task, especially with the help of network professionals who will walk you through the process from start to finish. Contact Centrality for a free assessment and find out how VoIP can help advance voice communication for your business.
