SIP Trunk - How to Use the Technology

SIP Trunking or simply SIP trunk is now becoming very popular around the world mainly because of the savings that it generate. On average Sip Trunk users can save as much as 70% on phone bills as a result of a more affordable dial rates and lower line rental fees. In fact the technology is widely used it is now one of the fastest growing business communication solution overlapping other VoIP Phone System.

The idea of SIP trunk is very easy to understand, it is able to convey cheaper call rates without compromising the call quality because of the service provider's IP network and servers. In a traditional phone line calls are routed using a PRI or Primary Rate Interface which is a communication protocol along with the PSTN or Public Switched Telephone Network. Each time a call uses these two protocols and network the carrier are being charge thus call rates become significantly higher. In a SIP trunk the PRI is bypassed by the IP network, private server and only uses a small amount of PSTN. As a result call charges are significantly lower.

However, how the technology works is not the main blunder for many business owners to adapt a SIP trunk. Often times the big question is how to start using it. Generally all IP PBX systems are capable of using a SIP line but older model handsets may not be able to support such protocol and may need some hardware upgrade. A SIP card may be inserted to these handsets to run the necessary firmware and applications needed in a SIP trunk.

But SIP cards are not a fail proof solution for all handsets. There are really old models that cannot accommodate such upgrade. In cases like this it is best that you purchase an IP phone instead of modifying your existing handsets. There are a wide variety of affordable IP phones in the market today that supports SIP protocols without a problem. Regardless of the brand and model almost all IP phones are also equipped with the latest audio codec and firmware so call quality will not be an issue.

Apart from getting the proper handsets, another important aspect in using a SIP trunk is the internet. Be sure that you have sufficient bandwidth to accommodate your expected call traffic to prevent any jitters and delay. Normally service providers will advise you to acquire a business plan with your ISP especially if you will be sharing the connection with your computer.

If you manage to fulfill these simple requirements with Next Step Telecom then you can expect to enjoy a low cost and effective business communication solution for your business.