VoIP Trunking in Brief

The term "VoIP Trunking" usually refers to a trunk connection between a customer VoIP Network and the VoIP service provider who provides the connection to the Public Voice Networks such as the PSTN and Mobile networks. The VoIP Trunk is also more often called a SIP trunk after the protocol used to setup, manage and clear calls. This protocol is called Session Initiation Protocol.
SIP Trunks are quickly replacing traditional voice trunks that mainly utilise ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Networks) technology. The SIP Trunk is used to connect the customer to the public network and the service provider will port a subscriber's number or numbers on to it's own telephone exchange. The service provider will invariably use an Internet Protocol connection to carry the SIP exchanges back to its network, and it is essential that Quality of Service is maintained throughout the transfer of customer VoIP connections. This is normally achieved by using a leased line connection, or more recently an MPLS (Multi Protocol Labeled Switching) or VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) connectivity.
SIP Trunks come in a variety of guises such as:
A managed service where the provider supplies Customer Premises Equipment and is then able to monitor the trunk connection and provide guarantees about the reliability of the service.
An unmanaged service which only provides a simple, basic phone service.
A SIP connection between two applications
Traditional legacy trunking comprised T1 or E1 ISDN lines which were channelized, with each separate channel carrying a single phone connection. SIP can use almost any IP capable trunk, and in the case of a T1 or E1 line can operate with the line not having any channelization. The line or trunk can simply be thought of as a pipe providing a certain amount of bandwidth over which SIP connection can be carried within IP packets, with as many separate conversations as the bandwidth will allow.
The number of simultaneous calls that can be carried across a SIP Trunk will be dependent on the amount of bandwidth that has been made available and the voice codec chosen for the connections. Each call will consume a certain amount of bandwidth determined by the voice codec, which is often G.711 or G.729, although other voice codecs can be used. A call using a G.711 codec will need approximately 95Kbps per simultaneous call, whereas the G.729 codec will only require around 40Kbps. G.729 SIP Trunks are the most common and the most efficient due to the lower bandwidth requirements and also the fact that this codec provides good compression with only a small drop in call quality.
The method used to deploy a SIP Trunk will be determined mainly by the customer's PBX (Private Branch Exchange). Most IP-PBXs are configured to set up a native SIP trunk without the need for any protocol conversion, whereas some older PBXs may require an interface in the form of a gateway usually supplied by the SIP Provider. In some cases the gateway will have to convert SIP messages to messages compatible with TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) standards such as ISDN. This is referred to as SIP to PSTN internetworking and can take a number of forms, two of which are complete protocol internetworking and protocol encapsulation or SIP-T (SIP Telephony). SIP messages are converted to the equivalent ISDN messages outbound and from ISDN to SIP in the reverse direction.
There are two distinct components parts to a SIP voice call:
The media in the form of a codec which can be different on the SIP Trunk and in the PSTN to which the call is connecting. For example, G.729 on the Trunk and traditionally G.711 with the PSTN TDM systems. Translation between these codecs will be performed in the gateway which will have an IP port on the on the customer side that is bridged to a TDM trunk on the provider side.
The signaling involves translating the SIP signaling messages to one of a number of PSTN signaling standards, predominantly ISUP (ISDN User Part) of a common channel signaling system known as Signaling System 7 or SS7.

This article relating to VoIP Trunking was written by David Christie, MD at NSTUK Ltd, Website http://www.nstuk.com.

Read more ...

MGCP - What Is It Used For?

MGCP (Media Gateway Control Protocol) was developed from two Internet Protocols known as SGCP (Simple Gateway Control Protocol) and IPDC (Internet Protocol Device Control). It is used by Call Control Agents in VoIP systems to control the actions of a Telephony Gateway. MGCP was developed as part of the Internet Protocol Suite and the ITU-T had a standard that performed a similar function known as H.248. A working group known as MEGACO was formed to promote interoperability between the two standards.
The Call Control Agents can be SIP Servers, proprietary call agents such as Cisco's Communications Manager or an H.323 Gatekeeper. MGCP as a protocol uses a series of single line commands and responses to communicate with a telephony gateway, and these commands are simple ASCII based. When Voice over IP became viable, most of the media gateways were TDM (Time Division Muliplexed) based and elements of the VoIP system needed to communicate with these media gateways. This is the reason that MGCP was developed.
In a telecommunications systems utilising VoIP where there is a need to route calls to the PSTN a media gateway provides the interface between the IP-based VoIP system and the traditional TDM-based PSTN that would normally use ISDN as its medium of choice. The information coming from the PSTN had to be packetised using IP Packets in order to be transmitted on the VoIP side of the connection, and VoIP media needed to be de-encapsulated from the IP and RTP packets and assigned a channel in the TDM system.
The call control agents use MGCP to control and manage the actions of the media gateways using simple 1 line commands, and these agents are able to communicate with each other using media gateways as interfaces to ensure the voice and signaling streams are translated appropriately.
The Signaling information from the PSTN is sent to a Signaling Gateway and then to a Call Agent who ensures the information is translated to the appropriate SIP messages for onward transmission within the VoIP network to SIP endpoints or other Call Agents.
There are 9 commands used by MGCP and the MGCP packets are transmitted using UDP (User Datagram Protocol) as the transport method. These command messages are identified as:
AUEP - Audit Endpoints
AUCX - Audit Connection
CRCX - Create Connection
DLCX - Delete Connection
EPCF - Endpoint Configuration
MDCX - Modify Connection
NTFY - Notify
RQNT - Request for Notification
RSIP - Restart in Progress
The AUEP and AUCX messages are used by a Call Control Agent to query the status of the media gateway. The media connections that invariably use RTP are managed through use of the CRCX, DLCX and MDCX messages, which create, delete and modify connections. A Call Control Agent can request information on event notifications from a media gateway by using the RQNT (Request Notification) message, which should be responded to by the gateway with a NTFY (Notify) message. The types of events that we are referring to include:
Off Hook Notification
On Hook Notification
DTMF Digits
Fax Tones
Hookflash
Continuity tones
Modem tones.
Coding information can be changed in the gateway by means of the Call Agent sending an EPCF (Endpoint Configuration) message, and if successful the gateway will respond with an RSIP (Restart in Progress) message.

This article relating to MGCP was written by David Christie, MD at NSTUK Ltd, Website http://www.nstuk.com.

Read more ...

Employment Positions in Telecommunications

As communication outlets continue to evolve through social media and the Internet, so does the demand for telecommunications specialists. There are numerous opportunities for study and specialization, as well as occupations that range from technical installation to customer service. While we all believe finding an exact niche is important, no one said it was easy to choose! Here are some of the latest positions to keep an eye out for:
Installation
There are two types of occupations offered in installation: line and equipment. Line installation involves installing, testing, and repairing external cables while an equipment installer focuses on internal aspects like setting up networks, telephone communication/exchange, and handsets. Both of these positions tend to work for carriers and companies that send employees out on special jobs. The median annual wage for a line installer is $50,000, and the wage for an equipment installer is $54,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Research and Development
In order to maintain perfect network performance, engineers in research and development are hired to help stabilize the connection distributed throughout the company. This type of trade also includes creating new applications for smartphones and updating systems. A secured gig in research and development (R&D) at a telecommunications firm is considered to be the highest paying position, where you can earn at least $80,000 a year.
Administration
Every firm needs administration, even a telecommunications one. The administration staff works on handling paperwork, processing orders, billing, and organizing customer databases. Because there are different levels of administration, the annual income for this position can be anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000.
Customer Service
Employees in this area deal with customer satisfaction and complaints about the company's service. They ensure that each client is receiving proper technical support. They will take care of any existing problems and update customers on new software, deals, and discounts. According BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), a customer service representative makes up to $30,000 a year.
Sales and Marketing
A representative in sales and marketing focuses on advertising and selling. They may sell products like service providers, smart phones, mobile services, equipment, and cable. A sales and marketing position is largely based on commission, which is why each employees' pay may vary.
Freelance
Once you've gained all the outside experience dividing your time among big telecommunication companies and firms, working from the comfort of your home can be another option, especially if you're tech savvy. Some freelance positions may include configuration, developing applications, advertising, communications, IT consulting, technical support, and much, much more! The opportunities are endless, and so is the pay.

When it comes to telecommunications, Hackensack, NJ residents can learn more by visiting http://www.abcnj.com/.

Read more ...

Exploring Options in VOIP Service Providers

Voice over internet protocol involves phone service provided over an internet connection. People with an adequate connection can typically receive this service instead of contracting through a local phone company. As you prepare to make a final choice, consider your options in VOIP service providers to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Consider Your Necessary Options
Review your current account to determine what options you need and which ones you may be able to omit from your monthly bill. Typical features include call waiting, caller ID, three-way calling, and call forwarding. Note your current bill amount to enable you to compare this cost with the costs you will have after changing your account. It is likely that you will save money by making this change. It is common for VOIP service providers to offer bundling options, but you also must compare each price carefully to ensure that you do not pay more than you would pay for each separate option. Ask for a demonstration if you do not understand any features offered. If you determine that you don't need features, keep looking until you find a plan that fits your needs precisely.
Research Companies and Terms
Explore different VOIP service providers to learn about these companies. Take notes as you gather information, so you can remember the different features that each company offers. Examine money-back guarantees, details about contract terms, equipment provided, and policies about returning the equipment. Never consider a firm that does not offer at least a 30-day satisfaction guarantee to ensure that you will have recourse if you are not happy with the service. Some companies will use offers of free service to get customers to sign lengthy contracts. It's optimal if you don't have to sign any contract at all because this gives you the most protection and flexibility.
Number Portability
Find out whether a company offers number portability, which will enable you to maintain your current number instead of changing to a new number. Most firms provide this feature. Unless you're willing to update all your contacts about your new number, keep looking until you find a company that will enable you to keep your current number.
Network Test
You might not know whether your internet connection is fast enough to enable VOIP. The problems that people experience with VOIP often pertain to the speed of their connection and not with issues with the company. Therefore, before you proceed, request a network test to evaluate your network. The business should help you conduct this diagnostic test to evaluate your network. A business that does not offer this test may not have the knowledge and expertise to deliver quality assistance.
Technical Support
Issues and problems will invariably arise. As you consider various VOIP service providers, check into the technical support and maintenance provided by each firm. Optimally, the firm needs a system for resolving issues quickly with a team of experts standing by to assist customers.
With due diligence and careful research, you can find a business that will serve your connectivity needs to keep your phones connected at all times.

When choosing VOIP service providers, Baltimore, MD residents trust http://www.litecloudhosting.com/services/voip-as-a-service/.

Read more ...

Consider IP-Based Phone Systems for Your Growing Business

IP-based phone systems use your existing data network (your local area network, or LAN) to administer and process your business calls. There are a number of advantages to using this type of telephone service, including:
- There are no long-distance call charges because the calls are run through your existing intranet and network service provider.
- It's easy to add new services and expand the number of units.
- Users can access, personalize, and manage their communications from any location, as long as they have access to the company's intranet.
- By having your voice and data managed on a single network, you won't need as much equipment.
Phone systems can provide the equipment and services suited for your business, with solutions for the small office with a few lines, or for the larger office with 1000 or more users. You can also continue to use existing analog or digital equipment. This is helpful if you would like to expand to the upgraded technology in phases, or if the network connection is down.
The following are a few other advantages to utilizing IP communications:
Cost
While the initial installation cost of equipment may be higher than digital equipment, the service will save money in the long run. Depending on what you already have in place, you may only need minimal upgrade equipment to connect to the network. The call rate is usually lower or free, depending on the services you choose for your business. Plans are available for long distance calls, but they are also sometimes included for free. Talk with your provider about your normal business operations to make sure you are choosing a plan that fits your business needs.
Portability
Equipment can be easily moved to different locations in the office, or even to different geographical locations, without affecting the user's connection or extension number. All that is required is connecting the power and the Ethernet cable, and each unit will start up with the same number and extension. With digital, you have to involve the service provider when equipment needs to be moved.
Management
Because equipment can be accessed remotely, diagnosing and solving technical issues is much easier. The service provider doesn't need to come to your place of business during your operating hours to provide assistance. They can look at your systems and send signals to check for problems, reset equipment, and walk you through any configurations that may need to be performed on site.
Availability
Equipment needs your Internet connection. If you have regular issues with your Internet service provider or intranet, you may want to delay installation of a system until those issues are resolved. As an alternative, you may choose to have digital or analog equipment available in the times when the Internet service is down.
IP-based phone systems are an ideal choice for your business if you have a strong Internet service and want to take advantage of the newest technologies at overall reduced costs. Talk with your local provider about your business needs and the options available to you.

When looking for phone systems, Hackensack businesses should consult http://www.abcnj.com/toshiba.php.

Read more ...

What Are the Different VoIP Businesses I Can Start?

So you want to go in the VoIP industry and open up your own VoIP company but not sure what you want to sell exactly? Here is a guide of the different services you can offer;
· Consultation Services for VoIP: so many homes and businesses are changing over to VoIP these days because it is so much cheaper. There are so many different VoIP plans and packages out there, they don't always know what to choose. By being a consultant you will help them choose the package that will best suit their needs.
· VoIP Call Center Solutions: a VoIP call center is a call center hosted by a VoIP provider and not a physical location. By offering VoIP call center solutions, you will help companies set up call centers so that they can handle calls correctly, minimize wait time for callers, and improve company efficiency all while keeping costs low.
· VoIP Wholesale provider (wholesale termination): sell VoIP minutes to people so they can make VoIP calls
· Prepaid calling cards: you provide an access code with you calling cards so that people can make national and international VoIP calls from their landline and mobile phones without the need of a computer. The customer will need to put in their unique pin, found on the back of the card before they can start talking. These calling cards can then be bought by the customers in news agents, local retailers, grocery shops or online.
You can also offer pinless calling cards. With pinless cards, the customer will need to put in their access code but either the system will recognize the phone number they are calling from or they have a unique access code so a pin is not needed.
· IP PBX: An IP PBX is a home or business VoIP system for making internal and external calls. It consists of an IP PBX server, one or more SIP phones or VoIP phones and sometimes a VoIP Gateway. The phones are connected to the server. When someone wishes to make an internal call, they will go through the IP PBX server which has a directory of all the phones and their SIP addresses in the system and the call will be connected to the recipient. If one wishes to make an external call using the IP PBX it can be done with a VoIP Gateway or VoIP service provider.
The IP PBX business is growing really fast. By becoming an IP PBX service provider you will help your clients set up their systems.
In order to provide these services you will need to buy or host a VoIP switch. If you are new to the VoIP world or do not want to invest a lot of money into your business it is best to host. Your VoIP switch provider will be able to tell you what you will need exactly in order to start a VoIP company and provide the services you wish to offer.

At VoipSwitch, we allow you to brand your VoIP phone services under your own name, where the actual provider is unknown to your customers, and enable you to choose a reseller plan that does not require an initial investment or capital outlay. Contact us today at http://www.voipswitch.com for an affordable quote.

Read more ...

How to Choose a Company to Get Your VoipSwitch From?

If you search online for VoipSwitch providers you will find loads of different companies offering VoIP switches for resellers. But while there are seemingly so many companies offering this same product not all offer them licensed. The most important thing when buying a VoipSwitch is to make sure that the VoipSwitch comes with a license because otherwise it might just be a crack version and it is not guaranteed to work properly.
When researching different companies it is better to get your VoipSwitch from a company that is not brand new. An older company will be more established and there is less chance that they will close down soon. Well-established VoipSwitch companies are constantly re-inventing their products to make sure they are up-to-date with the market, by using them you know you get the latest software. Look for awards when researching companies and check out if they participate in different trade shows and exhibitions, this again shows you how integrated they are in the market.
Ask how many clients the company has, where their clients are mainly based, what services their clients offer, what size of company their clients have...
Do they have clients based near you? Do their clients have companies similar to the one you want to start?
It is important to get clear answers on these questions so you know what these companies specialize in.
What type of services do you wish to offer? Make sure the company you want to get a VoipSwitch from offers the products you will need in order to provide that service. They should be able to tell you what you will need in order to start and should help you set it up.
Another important thing is to make sure that you get 24/7 support. Things do go wrong and you will need someone to help you. Find out how support can be contacted in case of a problem.
You also need to consider the price. What is your budget? If you do not have or do not want to invest a lot of money there are many companies that offer a hosted VoipSwitch instead of buying one. This way you just pay a monthly fee which includes everything.
Some companies will offer cheaper products but it comes with less services, so research what you get for the price you pay. Sometimes it is better to pay a higher price if that will include more.

At Voipswitch, we allow you to brand your VoIP phone services under your own name, where the actual provider is unknown to your customers, and enable you to choose a reseller plan that does not require an initial investment or capital outlay. For hosting services, contact us today at http://hosted.voipswitch.com for an affordable quote.

Read more ...

Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer

Nowadays the technology is moving forward with huge steps. As smartphones get smarter, the different apps are getting more and more popular and also multifunctional. This progress leads to many available options, and as a result it is easy to find the app that is tailored exactly for your needs and taste. Let's discuss about some most wide known applications.
Have you ever wonder why the world's largest social network Facebook acquired WhatsApp and paid $22 billion for a startup that generated $10.2 million in revenue last year? There is definitely a strong reason for this. Some of those who agreed with the acquisition told that Facebook was just getting rid of the competitor by bringing it to the company. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer, as it is said.
Many popular apps that are displayed now on the market raised the SMS communication on the new level. Nobody wants to pay anymore for the text messaging; everybody uses the apps that give the possibility to write free messages and to interchange the videos and other media.
Viber, WhatsApp, Skype have its own different features which draw more number of users day by day. Each person is well aware of the functions that have all this applications, and as a rule a person is using all of them. They are definitely better alternatives to SMS chatting; especially now when the smartphones are on the rise and IM applications became very necessary and popular. It is considered to be a new trend now.
Applications' Interface
Popular messaging service Viber brings a redesigned user interface, and some new features. There is a possibility to share multiple media, and users can send multiple photos and videos at once, undesirable contacts can be blocked and long video messages can be sent.
According to the last information Viber which has 15 million registered users in India and 300 million registered users internationally, and it has been acquired by Japanese membership-based Internet services company Rakuten for $900 million.
It needs to be noted that eBay had bought Skype for more than $2 billion in 2005, and then sold the majority of its stake in 2009 to a private investment group for $1.2 billion. The only difference between 2005 and now is the popularity of smartphones. Microsoft bought Skype in 2011 for around $8.5 billion.
Take wise decisions
There is a huge amount of money paid for each application, simple user cannot even imagine what amount of money are invested in all this, and as a fact he wants to see just the result, to use the application which is convenient and give access to more free features. People are interested in communication that has no limits.
Even though there are some limits in all these applications, the communication can be held between users only, and the internet connection is required for both parts. ABC-VoIP service is more independent in this way; it is secured and more affordable. You can call the person you want no matter where he is located. No internet connection is required for accepting part, and there is no need to install the application. Each service has benefits and limits. Keep abreast of technology developments and stay connected to them, but remember nothing in the world will replace the joy and happiness of live communication.

ABC-VoIP Ltd. Your Communication Partner - voice communication with low bills, or even free phone calls. The easy to use service greatly reduces your phone bills, saves your money on long distance and international calls with VoIP phone service.

Read more ...

Hosted PBX Allows for Predictable Cash Flows

Quality, reliability, security and cost are some of the usual considerations that play a role when an organization is trying to select an enterprise phone system. In today's world, the choice generally boils down to hosted VoIP vs. on premise IP-PBX systems using SIP trunks. Other than the immediate technical and financial benefits, hosted VoIP brings plenty of other advantages to the table.
Reasonably predictable cash flows
An often overlooked aspect of hosted systems is that buying these services allows an enterprise to transfer much of the risks associated with new technology onto a third-party vendor. The company does not have to source in-house talent or depreciate high capital costs over the next decade. Payment is made only on the basis of what has been used which means that a business does not have to worry about unexpected costs.
Not only is it easy to predict cash flows for the current size of the business, but estimating future costs also becomes pretty straightforward. The organization can make reasonable projections regarding business growth or lack thereof. Calculating the approximate monthly expenses is then just a matter of knowing the specific rates that will be charged by the provider (for whatever level of service is required).
With an on-premise SIP solution, there may be unexpected costs for maintenance, troubleshooting problems, upgrading equipment or having to reinvest in new technology because the current system is obsolete. In some cases, technology innovation even necessitates hiring new personnel in order to keep the system running. Hosted VoIP allows the company to smooth out such irregularities in the cash flows.
Financial projections and business planning
Being able to accurately predict cash flows is not just a "nice to have" feature, it directly impacts business planning and strategy. Organizations spend a lot of management resources in spacing out capital-intensive projects so that one particular year does not face crippling sunk costs. Using hosted VoIP allows a business to erase the capital expenditure required for a major technology that is crucial to everyday functioning, freeing it up for alternative uses.
With conventional technology and typical phone contracts, companies generally end up paying for resources that they don't need or haven't used. Unexpected costs can delay or derail ongoing projects because funds have to be diverted for repairing/upgrading the phone systems. Organizations utilizing hosted VoIP services are better able to plan for business continuity, invest capital more effectively and implement long-term strategies with minimal interruptions.

Bhagwad is an expert consultant on hosted PBX systems.

Read more ...

Why a VOIP Telephone System Is Vital For Small Business

Communication is an imperative part of many businesses from newly-established and small business to multinational companies. Nowadays, there are lots of ways for businesses to efficiently communicate, but what has emerged as the most preferred method of communication is undeniably the VoIP phone system. VoIP or otherwise the voice over internet protocol is a vital term utilized to describe the transmission of phone calls with the aid of the data network, despite of over traditional telephone lines.
This type of advanced technology lets for more efficient and faster business communications, which are very essential in today's fast-paced business setting. While VoIP technology has certainly proven its worth to multinational firms and large businesses, VoIP for Small Business solutions also have started to gain greater prominence these days.
Advantages of using VoIP phone service
The significance of VoIP Telephone System lies in its multiple features, functionality, and several other benefits including cost-savings. Apart from the basic features such as call forwarding and caller ID, VoIP technology has some distinct and exclusive features such as option for conference calls, web mobility, managing of voice mail and more. This technology is creating a vast revolution to provide major advantages to your business. It can facilitate your firm to develop by augmenting your communications capabilities, can save money on your great telecommunication expenses, and even can enable improved mobility, flexibility and productivity in your workforce.
Many small businesses across the globe are already benefitting from the lucrative profits of VoIP systems. Here are a few reasons why VoIP is making a huge impact on business communications, particularly for small businesses;
• VoIP offers the ability to use data network and an integrated voice at a lower price than that of separate parts.
• VoIP can open the key door to new applications and services for the small business, which can drive additional profits and revenue.
• A VoIP Business Phone System offers companies and business houses a great technological infrastructure eminently needed in today's global marketplace.
VoIP is enabling small business houses to capitalize on its various advantages - enhanced customer relationship management, drastically reduced overhead costs, strong rapport with clients, instant exchange of information, and extremely effective collaboration amid business associates, workers and customers.
There are various ways for small businesses in order to take benefit of the VoIP service. An upgrade to an existing telephone system, when available can certainly allow VoIP communications amid different locations, without any key disruption to the infrastructure in every office. Alternatively, the new VoIP system can also be procured to replace the existing or old phone switch and efficiently open up new abilities. Yet another vital option is to simply pay for a service provider on a monthly basis to have a hosted VoIP system, without purchasing any capital equipment at all.
With the increasing demand for VoIP, the VoIP service providers undeniably having a field day. Nevertheless, for your small business to avail all the vital benefits that VoIP offers, it is crucially imperative that you have a reliable internet connection and more significantly, you tie up with the reliable VoIP telephone service provider!

Vivant is a VoIP Phone Provider company focusing on providing Reliable VoIP Services simple, easy to use and turn-key telephone system to our customers.

Read more ...