VoIP for Business
As technology moves along at breakneck speed, the telecoms industry
welcomes the arrival of VoIP or voice over internet protocol. This is
the process of translating normal voice into packets of data which
travels down an internet connection and then reforms as voice again
upon its destination.
One of the single most important
landmarks in the evolution of this format has been the worldwide
phenomenon known as Skype. Two Danish chaps, Janus Friis and Niklas
Zennstrom, sat down one day and created this destructive technological
behemoth which has changed the face of voice communications as we know
it for ever. Better still they have made it possible for two or several
(via conference call) people to download a piece of free software onto
their PC’s and talk for absolutely free for any amount of time at any
destination in the world.
In the meantime, the business world
has been following behind on its coat-tails seeking ways of making this
work for business telephone systems based structure. You can now have
your system hosted remotely using VoIP to access the system and make
inter-office calls for free or break out to worldwide destinations for
a fraction of the cost of a normal BT call – and all over any available
broadband connection. Whilst before, the quality of the call was down
to the copper wire, it is now squarely based around adequate bandwidth
and un-contended interference. Other options include using VoIP
adaptors, SIP trunking via a VoIP phone system with new products coming
onto the market all the time.
If you have decided that a VOIP
phone system is the right step for your company, you may need to
determine which of your existing telephone equipment you are able to
keep. The potential cost savings that can be made through using any
existing digital equipment are huge. Many digital phone systems can be
IP enabled using minor hardware additions and software upgrades.
When
shopping around for potential systems you need to be certain of the
features they provide as standard and which are optional cost extras.
You also need to be certain of exactly what is included with the system.
You
will also need to enquire about the compatibility of existing
equipment. The technology used in many VOIP systems may affect the
implementation of any existing telephone hardware.
You will also
need to ensure that any devices such as fax machines, credit card
processors, and security systems etc can be integrated into your new
VOIP phone system. You should make any potential vendor aware of such
devices so they can provide you with a suitable phone system for your
requirements.
Finally, do not try to save money by buying used
VOIP phone systems. Remember VOIP is a new technology, so even last
years equipment is outdated. Also the installation cost will still
apply whether the system is new or second hand, and the service costs
may even be higher due to reliability issues. To put it simply it just
isn?t worth the hassle, the higher secondary costs will wipe out any
potential saving..
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Ip Pbx Solutions Making Life Easier
IP PBX is a revolutionary system that has managed to redefine the entire communication process. Now people need not depend on landline telephone connections nor have to spend hours on frowning upon the signals of mobile phone. This is one unique system that allows the users to express what he wants to the person on the other end of the system at quite low cost.
Here under this system, users can call to any other person in the world just like it happens on telephone. The only difference is that the call rates are very cheap and are not bounded by any region or area. This is the main reason why it is getting more and more popular among the common people. This has specially emerged as a feasible option for all the big corporate houses, as on annual basis they are forced to spend huge amount of money on paying huge bills of the communication expenses. But now with this VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) enabled technology solutions, things have become better for them. It is because this method of IP PBX allows them to use the same telephone lines without disturbing the already existing telephone network both for external and internal use.
IP PBX VoIP solutions are very smoothly gelling into the organisation network and help the management officials to monitor the performance of the employees and affect better coordination and control over them. Under this system, IP PBX system contains one or more then one SIP phone. Other things that are also very necessary, are IP PBX server. Along with if necessary, an official VoIP Gateway is also required to connect all the PSTN lines. The IP PBX allows the SIP clients to operate through their headsets. After then the users will just have to contact and after that they can register with IP PBX server. This will allow them to connect through Internet call or through VoIP gateway.
This mode of establishing sound communication is very effective and on the whole very cheap. Besides these there are other benefits too of using this IP PBX VoIP solutions . First of all users need not to invest too much into availing this process. It requires only one time investment, and after that it is a smooth ride for the users.
Since this IP PBX solutions is directly dependent on Internet, therefore users can operate from any part of the world, where Internet is available on this earth. Also it is quite cheaper which is why making International and long distance calls is far more easier and possible.
This VoIP PBX service besides being hassle free to a large extent is also free from any kind of wiring troubles. So by using this service, users can now breathe easily, as they don’t have to tackle with wires again and again. The service provided through this medium is also quite outstanding, which is the main reason why it can be relied upon. Also the call quality is quite awesome too. Plus users can also enjoy a disturbance-free talk session. There are also other add-on services and features, which this IP PBX VoIP service provides, much to the delight of users. Users can also take the advantage of its roaming feature, where they can enjoy the feature of call diversion to any part of the world. It is because it runs on quite sophisticated lines of technology, which imparts its users the features that they could only think about in their dreams.
Thus it can be easily said that this is a technology that users can rely upon, but it is necessary for them to keep in mind that they choose a right deal for themselves. Also while using the services of the service providers, users are advised to keep himself aware of all the changes in the call rates and plans.
CCIE Voice Information
The Voice track concentrates on voice solutions for the enterprise and includes subjects such as QoS, MGCP, Call Manager (Cisco’s VoIP PBX), Cisco Unity (Cisco’s Unified Messaging platform), Unity Express and IP Contact Center Express.
The CCIE Voice (CCIE Voice Written Exam (305-030) & CCIE Voice Lab Exam) certification is said to be one of the hardest around at the moment, and it is estimated that there are less than 800 CCIE Voice certified people in the whole world at present.
The CCIE Voice lab exam blueprint includes the following:
- Basic Campus Design
- DHCP, TFTP
- Catalyst voice and data VLAN configuration
- Catalyst VTP configuration
- Call Manager and Call Manager Express Configuration
- Phone registration
- Phone configuration
- Voice Gateway and Signaling
- Analog and digital voice protocols: analog FXS, FXO-M1, T1, E1, PRI, CAS, R2
- VoIP protocols: H323, MGCP, SCCP, SIP, RAS
- Call Routing
- CCM route patterns (@ wildcard not tested)
- CCM route preference and redundancy
- IOS dial peers
- Digit manipulation and translation
- Voice CODEC
- G711ulaw, G711alaw, G729, G723
- Call Admission Control
- Location-based
- RAS-based
- High Availability Features
- SRST
- AAR
- Media Resource Management
- Conference bridge software and hardware
- Transcoder
- MTP
- MOH
- QoS Considerations
- L2/L3 classifications and policing
- Queuing mechanisms
- LFI
- Catalyst switch QoS
- Unified Messaging
- Unity voicemail integration
- Unity administration
- CRS/IPCC Express Application
- Default script configuration and integration
- Custom script configuration and integration
- Call Manager Voice Applications
- Any native applications to Call Manager, examples are extension mobility, attendant console, IPMA
- Supplementary Services
- Directory Services and Integration
- Fax
- Fax pass-through
- Fax relay
What sets the CCIE Voice lab exam apart from typical CCIE lab exams is the widely dissimilar platforms that are used. Configurations will have to be done on the Windows 2003 Server environment, on a CallManager web-based GUI, on the CatOS command line, on the IOS command line, as well as on the proprietary configuration environments of telephony devices such as the ATA186 and VG248. As such, it is not an exam that involves a uniform method of configuration, and it involves a lot of back-and-forth fine tuning between the numerous platforms.
The device list for the CCIE Voice lab includes the following:
- Hardware
- MCS 7835 Call Manager/CRS Servers
- MCS 7835 Unity Server
- Catalyst 6503
- 3725 Routers (WAN, Gatekeeper, Gateway, PSTN Emulation)
- Cisco Unity Express
- 2651XM H.323 Gateway
- VG248 Analog Phone Gateway
- ATA186 Analog Telephone Adapters
- Catalyst 3550 with inline power
- IP Phones
- Analog Phones
- FAX
- Software
- All routers use IOS version 12.4 Main Train
- Catalyst 6503 series switches use Switch OS version 7.6(X)
- Catalyst 3550 series switches use IOS version 12.1EA
- CCM version 4.1(3) with latest SR
- Unity version 4.0(5)
- CRS version 4.0(1)
Source: Wikipedia.com
VoIP : Alternative Telephony Solutions !
Alternative telephony solutions just got more innovative with VoIP as the new age lingo of telecommunication emerges as the biggest grosser amidst all 21st century innovations. Cutting through traditional circuits- switched telephone lines VoIP telephony transmits data over Internet protocol opposed to telephone lines which would carry analogue data signals spread across the length of the topography.
What helps voip technology cut competition over the conventional phone lines is its smart, cost effective and innovative technology that matches the beat with this century and taps the most prominent and relevant tool of communication- the Internet.
Today you don’t have to invest in fancy gadget and tedious installations to reach a friend miles away. VoIp telephony brings you the option to dial a call at the convenience of your laptop to a friend at the other end of the globe.
Though call quality was originally a problem with VoIP customers, but progressive technology and high competition in the domain has helped VoIP providers evolve their technology to one which is simple, cost effective and innovative.
Before we understand the working system of VoIP technology it is essential to understand that high speed Internet is a prerequisite to carry out VoIP calls. Once we are able to establish that, calling via the Internet only remains a simple hassle free task.
How VoIP telephony functions is that- once a VoIP calls originates from a computer or a phone, it travels to the server of the broadband service provider in small packets of data. This data is transferred via cables after being converted from analogue signals to digital signals at high speed to reach the other end where it is converted back to a user comprehensible format i.e analogue.
A VoIP call is completed when the caller and callee send and receive audio data packed in a digital format and that brings the desire of cheap, effective telephony to life!
Implementation of Asterisk in Corporate Environments
Asterisk, complete PBX software, runs on Linux, Windows, BSD and OS X. Asterisk does VoIP in four different protocols, and is able to interconnect with almost all telephony equipment which is inexpensive.
Asterisk provides many features like Voicemail services with Directory, Call Conferencing, Interactive Voice Response, and Call Queuing. It includes three-way calling, caller ID services and Skinny.
You will not need additional hardware to implement Asterisk. But it does expect a non-standard driver that implements dummy hardware as a non-portable timing mechanism. Single or multiple VoIP Providers can be used for incoming and outgoing calls, though incoming calls can be handled by different VoIP Providers.
For use of digital and analog telephony equipment, Asterisk supports a number of equipment most notably is Asterisk sponsored hardware Digium. Their FXO and FXS cards are popular for small installations.
Full features of Asterisk Open Source Edition include Full PBX Capability, Switched or Packet Data, VoIP Capability, TDM Capability, Converged Telephony, Voice Mail, Unlimited-Seat Conference Bridge, SIP and IAX Support and Asterisk-centric Poundkey Linux.
Asterisk also includes the Business Edition, where it includes other features like Asterisk Technical Manual, Quick-start Guide, Commercial License with Legal Protection, 240 Simultaneous Calls, Tech Support for Install and Bug Resolution, Free Upgrades and Tech Support for One Year, Access to Business Edition Portal for One Year, Special Offers for Partner Products and many others.
Asterisk allows people to communicate using the internet. It is one of the cheapest ways to talk. The PC clients connect to each other through an Asterisk server which uses a Linux/Unix OS. Asterisk calls are passed through different channel protocols. The most popular forms of calls are H323, SIP, IAX or Zap. Depending on the type of channel you use, the user must have the appropriate software to handle the call type.
Let’s say, if are a registered on an Asterisk PBX (or other PBX) as a SIP user, you are required to use a SIP phone client such as X-Lite or SIPPS. Or, if you are registered as an IAX user you must use an IAX phone client such as iaxcomm. SIP/IAX Client Configuration allows you to register SIP and IAX users. This includes the adjustment of all Asterisk and client phone settings.
To make calls with Asterisk telephone system you should connectivity to an Asterisk PBX for call handling and users using PCs with SoftPhones for calling internally and externally. All configuration information for the Asterisk PBX knows is written to the conf files located in /etc/asterisk.
All information for SIP users is stored in sip.conf and for IAX users in iax.conf. Numbers are read from extensions.conf. Voicemails are stored in voicemail.conf etc. To place a call through Asterisk, registration to Asterisk is not required. However, you do need a username and password which will allow you to call someone who is registered. To receive a call, you must be a registered user and have an extension.
When any change is made in conf files from /etc/asterisk/ or changes that relate with some of these files, you must type ‘reload’ in the Asterisk Command Line Interface (CLI) to make the changes effective.
It is possible to implement only the Open Source Edition for your corporate business. You will only need a Linux OS computer and Asterisk has to be installed.
All About Broadband Phones for Helpful Voip Tips
Broadband phone is the amazing technology to day that give many benefits for their users. Broadband phone actually uses voice over internet protocol (VoIP) to carry phone calls through the internet. This is an alternative way to transmit the call to the traditional telephony network.
How Does it Work?
Exactly, VOIP allows you to make phone calls through your internet connection, it works by converting a phone signal into ‘packets’ of information that are sent down an internet connection, and then converted back into an ordinary phone signal at the other end. A hardware broadband telephone uses an adapter. You connect this hardware to the router on your network or to your PC directly. Another option is software. The broadband software is a program that makes broadband calls.
For all VOIP, a broadband connection is essential. Most phones will take up around 64k for sending your voice, and 64k for receiving the other voice, so a 128k broadband is the absolute minimum requirement to ensure no gaps in call quality.
Advantages of Voip Broadband Phone Services :
1. Save money
Using VoIP Broadphone phone is a cheaper option if you make a lot of long distance and international calls. All calls between people using the same service provider are free regardless of location. Branch offices to head office communication be free cost, if we use this service. By using a VOIP system, you can save large amounts of money, its better choice than traditional phone.
2. Voip Features
Many features that support telecommunication user:
- call waiting
- caller ID
- three-way calling
- call forwarding
- last number redial
- speed dial
- voicemail
3. User Mobility
When traveling, you can take the VoIP adapter with you and instantly turn a phone anywhere in the world into your local phone. This will require a high speed internet connection. It’s flexible tool so your communication can moveable
4.Easier Call Directing
A major advantage of VOIP phones is that they allow a call to be directed to a phone, not a location. If for example, you travel between two broadband equipped offices (or even abroad), you could take the phone with you, and have all your calls go direct to you in either office, whilst an internal call from your VOIP system would still be free! This offers many of the benefits of mobile phones, but for far less cost.
How to choose a Broadband Phone ?
Essentially, there are two kinds of VoIP (Broadband Phone) applications to consider, either hardware or software based. If you choose the software solution, you’ll have to have your computer urned on in order to both make and receive telephone calls, but the only equipment you’ll need is a microphone and speakers connected to your computer.
If you choose the hardware solution instead, you’ll be using a converter box called an ATA that will be attached to your high-speed internet connection. Your telephone can then be plugged into the ATA. The converter box takes the analog signal from your phone and converts it to a digital signal to be sent over the internet in data packets, which are then reassembled on the other end of the telephone connection. By using a hardware VoIP (Broadband Phone) solution, you computer does not have to be on in order for you to make and receive telephone calls, although your Internet connection will have to be active. Many VoIP (Broadband Phone) service providers are including the ATA at very low cost or even for free in some cases.
Are there any disadvantages with a VoIP (Broadband Phone) solution?
Although most VoIP (Broadband Phone) service providers have Emergency 911 there are still a few that do not. To be sure, the biggest disadvantage that skeptics will throw at you is what happens when your power goes out at home or you lose your Broadband Internet connection. You see VoIP (Broadband Phone) relies on having a broadband connection so if that goes down so does your Internet phone service. However, in the days when most of us have a cell phone of some sort, even if it is just “pay as you go”, is this really a big issue? Another option that many people go for is to have a cheap regular local phone service to use just on those rare occasions when you lose your power or broadband connection.
Finally the best choice for your telecommunication that we suggest is voip broadband phone.
Skype for Mac OS X
Skype 2.0 for Mac is a little piece of software that lets you call anyone else using Skype, anywhere in the world, no matter what platform they use. Chat with up to 100 people or video conference call with a friend. Make video calls to anyone on Skype, no matter what kind of computer they are using Say hello, smile, or even wave with anyone, anywhere in the world on Skype; Great quality video that just works.
Now Skype enabling high-quality voice calling via the Internet for multiple computer platforms. Skype is the leading VOIP-category product worldwide, with more than 23 million registered users, and more than 130,000 new users per day.
Previously available in beta versions, Skype for Mac OS X and Skype for Linux software includes free Skype to Skype calling and conference calling for up to 5 participants, cross-platform communications, rich presence and personalization features, and the pre-pay Skype Out service, allowing users to call any landline or mobile worldwide for the price of a local call.
Now Skype technology has launched the beta version of Skype for Mac OX. The beta includes such features as: a user-built global Skype contacts directory with various search options and an add-a-contact tool; message tracking; customization with My Picture image display; file transfer; end-to-end encryption; the ability to have multiple Skype accounts on one computing device; and instant messaging.
Advantage of the Skype:
Quality of the interface: While many such applications are cross-platform and never look good on any system, the Mac OS X version of Skype has a clear, easy-to-understand interface that makes interacting with the application a lot easier. Even the toolbar icons use some system-standard metaphors and drawings, which denote the attention that went into it.
Skype Global Directory: The user-built global Skype contacts directory with numerous search options and an easy add-a-contact tool.
Ability to cross firewalls: While testing it behind quite a hefty firewall and a NAT-enabled router, I was able to receive and place calls normally.
Instant messaging: Cross platform messaging ability.
Skype Out service: Skype allows you to reach most numbers, no matter where you are calling from and for a constant fee. This is without doubt a great plus for travelers and, unless your phone company is extremely good, is very likely to help you save some money on your regular bills.
Conference calling: Instantly create a free 5-party conference call.
Presence – easily manage availability and view status of contacts
File transfer –send and receive files via Skype
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