By 2016 the estimated data volume worldwide of VoIP service traffic is likely to reach 158 petabytes a month. Statistics like the latter are clear indicators that VoIP technology, while not brand new, is certainly gaining momentum in its adoption numbers.
As more and more businesses turn to this communication medium to facilitate their corporate communication needs, you might find yourself considering a VoIP solution for your company. And it's a great idea, no doubt about it. But as with any decision, it's always best to go in with your eyes wide open, which is why we've put together the pros and cons of VoIP so you can make an informed choice.
6 Advantages to VoIP Technology
It's More Cost Efficient
If you're still using PSTN as your communication method, time does mean money regarding your calls. You're paying per minute, and being charged hefty fees for international calls. Because VoIP runs along your internet, the only cost you'll be incurring will be your monthly internet bill.
It's Feature-rich
During a normal phone call, it's only possible for two people to converse. During a VoIP call, it's possible to chat to callers around the globe, and to more than one person at the same time. VoIP solutions come with a variety of call management tools as well, including caller ID, voicemail, contact lists and many more.
It Enables Tele-working
It's possible to access the company's office from a home office, making use remotely of the voice, fax and data services of your workplace.
It Handles More Than Just Voice
VoIP is short for "Voice Over Internet Protocol", and hints at its capabilities. The basic underlying protocol for the Internet consists of TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and IP (Internet Protocol). Thanks to being based on IP, VoIP can handle a variety of media types, whether it's voice, images, video or text.
Bandwidth is Handled Efficiently
VoIP uses bandwidth efficiently thanks to a technique referred to in telephony as silence suppression. Approximately 50% of a voice conversation consists of silence, which is wasted during a typical phone call. VoIP fills the voids consisting of silence with data so that bandwidth isn't wasted. Essentially when the caller is silent, the bandwidth they aren't using is redirected for use elsewhere.
It's More Flexible
The underlying network used for VoIP doesn't require a specific network layout, and can be used over a variety of networks. Unlike PSTN connections (which have highly complex networks), VoIP networks are flexible and can support many types of communication. The system is also more standardised, requires less equipment management and is subsequently more fault tolerant.
Disadvantages to VoIP Technology
Older VoIP solutions experienced growing pains during the early years of the technology, but many of the disadvantages that initially counted against VoIP have largely been overcome by technological developments.
Modern VoIP systems no longer suffer with voice quality issues thanks to QOS, which is helps with managing bandwidth requirements. Power requirements for VoIP can also be met using Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches. The single greatest disadvantage facing VoIP is security, which remains an area of consideration and careful planning for those intending to implement a VoIP solution.
Security is an Issue
As with other Internet technologies, security is a concern with VoIP. There are many attacks and threats that VoIP can fall prey to, from identity theft to DDOS attacks. If you are implementing a VoIP system, it's vital to plan security measures from the beginning to protect your system.
The disadvantages to VoIP technology are small when compared to the advantages on offer. If you're still uncertain about whether or not to go with VoIP, why not contact a professional? They’re equipped to advise you in the best solution for your needs and can guide you in making the smartest choice possible.
