Are you trying to modernize business communication? Have you considered implementing SIP trunking? It’s a telephony protocol used for making internet calls by controlling data transfer.
A plethora of small and large businesses use SIP trunking to reduce their phone costs and optimize their bandwidth. SIP trunks take the role of virtual phone lines, established to help businesses make and receive internet calls from customers from anywhere in the world.
These trunks connect two locations in order to send and receive emails, text messages, local calls, long-distance calls, and start video chats. Trunking serves as a replacement for copper-wire telephone networks in need of a physical connection for a call to be established.
Learn more about SIP trunking.
Understanding SIP trunking
The abbreviation SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol, referring to a technology whose goal is to establish communication via a data network like the internet. These communication sessions are able to support not only traditional phone calls but also conference calls with a number of participants. The basic function of SIPs is to transmit messages over the web, such as instant messages, videos, and voice calls. Find out more about SIP trunking and discover whether you need it for your business.
Moreover, Session Initiation Protocol is responsible for establishing a virtual link between a phone network and a PBX with an internet connection. A SIP trunk refers to a group of multiple SIP channels. The capacity of each channel is to handle a single call in the same way an analog telephone line performs this task. Nevertheless, SIP channels don’t need a physical wire to establish a connection; they are virtual.
This sort of virtual connection is used to route voice traffic to the telephone network through the gateway of the provider. The quality of service is undeniable, whereas the cost savings while using such a technology are significant. Unlike the other telephone services, SIP trunking is likely to save almost sixty percent of the monthly communication expenses of companies.
Furthermore, the number of SIP channels is determined by the approximate number of concurrent calls. The largest part of businesses doesn’t require a separate channel for every user but a single SIP trunk for two to five users.
Additionally, internet bandwidth is another consideration for users, as not all connections handle the same number of SIP calls. Although high-speed connections are capable of supporting numerous simultaneous calls, companies with a large volume of concurrent calls would probably have to expand the data circuit. For a better understanding of internet bandwidth, visit this link https://techterms.com/definition/bandwidth.
Who should consider SIP trunks?
Many businesses have a tendency to use SIP trunks for real-life communications but mostly for voice calls. Even though there are drastic differences between ISDN technology and SIP trunking, the concept of phone call delivery is the same in both technologies. ISDN circuits need physical installation, whereas SIP trunks are delivered over the internet.
Session Initiation Protocol Trunks should be considered by any type of business having an IP PBX. These are convenient for companies using physical PBX systems, which require professionals to set them up and maintain them. Also, there should be at least one telephony specialist in the company with expert knowledge. Consequently, physical PBX systems are costlier than SIP trunks.
In addition, SIP trunking is a wise solution for businesses with a vast volume of calls, both inbound and outbound. It provides cost-effectiveness and flexibility, which aren’t exactly offered by traditional PBX systems. Selecting the right SIP provider is important for businesses, as its services should match their calling profiles.
Trunks vs. channels
While trunk a term used to refer to a group of cables, it has acquired another meaning on the internet. It’s no longer a group of cables but a number of channels, which handle simultaneous calls. Hence, the quantity of channels should be based on the volume of work. Providers are expected to assist their clients with the calculation of channels.
Additionally, these channels are best described as virtual versions of traditional telephone lines. Two concurrent calls can be supported by one channel, an incoming and an outgoing call. Companies that have no more than two simultaneous calls need only one or two channels. However, this doesn’t apply to companies receiving plenty of inbound calls at the same time.
Benefits of SIP trunks
The number of companies using SIP services is constantly on the rise. Perhaps the most crucial benefit of using these services is cost saving. In the case of traditional telephony and ISDN technology, businesses always end up paying for more capacity than they actually need. In contrast, Session Initiation Protocol Trunks are much more precise in view of usage. The prices of calls and line rentals are substantially lower as well, which is especially convenient for companies with high call volumes.
Another reason why organizations are appealed by these trunks is geographic flexibility. There are no restrictions as far as telecommunications are concerned, providing companies with a chance to pick any numbers they want, irrespective of geography. It’s what makes them perfect for international suppliers and customers. Even if you move office or relocate your business to another country, you can always keep the number without making any changes.
Moreover, Trunks provide companies with control over usage, as they can be scaled up and down easily. When looking for a SIP trunking supplier, make sure you find one offering trusted IP infrastructure and 24/7 support. These providers can easily upgrade the capacity and number of trunks. The channel quantity can be upgraded in accordance with the growth of companies, which results in a larger volume of work.
Another benefit of these services is combining multiple communication methods into a unified solution. They range from texts and emails to videos and conferencing. Given the installation of trunking is virtual, not physical, the system can be set up within forty-eight hours. Most organizations usually don’t need to worry about extra installation, as their current internet infrastructure and connectivity are usually sufficient.
What factors should you consider?
While searching for SIP services, there are several factors to keep in mind during the research. The first factor to think about is the quantity of concurrent calls, which is vital for calculating the channel number. Even if your understanding of business concurrency is limited, this shouldn’t worry you because of the flexibility of the services. You can have channels removed or added rather easily.
The following point of consideration is the number of minutes you will need. This factor depends on the quantity of your outgoing calls. The more calls you make, the more minutes you will need. Usually, bundled minutes are offered together with channels by plenty of providers. Other companies, however, look for calls on a set tariff, particularly organizations with low volume calling.
Companies opening new offices in new geographic locations are suggested to obtain some new numbers. By acquiring an international support number based in a particular country, your business will seem larger in the eyes of customers, regardless of how small it really is.
Another key metric to calculate is the bandwidth, which can be done through an online bandwidth calculator. These calculators only require users to write down the concurrent call number they expect to have and wait for bandwidth to be calculated.
The procedure of porting existing numbers should also be taken into consideration in order for companies not to lose touch with their customers. Although the porting process is straightforward, it lasts longer, approximately one to two weeks.
What to look for in a SIP provider?
Making the best choice of a SIP provider is essential for ensuring proper service. Pricing is a factor most customers pay attention to when choosing a provider. The cost of the trunk channels isn’t the only one that matters, as customers should also consider setup costs, number porting, calling tariffs, and maintenance fees. Every SIP provider should explain these expenses in detail for clients to be clear about the costs.
Security is of absolute importance when choosing a SIP provider. Companies whose calls are predominantly sensitive should look for a supplier with a secure connection. This is especially relevant for companies in the healthcare, financial, and insurance sectors. Additionally, the providers must have a clear monitoring policy.
Availability should be checked before making a decision, particularly for companies operating in multiple countries. The provider you opt for should provide services in every country of business operation and be experienced in handling both network and SIP elements.
Furthermore, your experience following the installation is no less important. You should inspect the account management and support processes after the purchase, which requires significant attention on your end. Companies investing in cloud communications must keep track of the technical support they’ll be receiving and the role of the account manager.
In conclusion
Wire networks are no longer necessary to make calls.
Cloud communications are more reliable than traditional networks, help companies drive more business value, and provide global phone number coverage!