Choosing the right communications solution can be a complicated process. Knowing what’s best for your business with many acronyms and terms can be challenging.
VoIP and SIP are both telecommunications technologies, but they work differently. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed decision.
Cost
VoIP systems are typically cheaper than traditional landlines because they use an existing internet connection in your office already uses. However, VoIP vs sip phones requires additional hardware, like phones or gateways connecting your fax machine to digital lines.
Costs depend on the number of users, subscription plans, and one-time hardware costs. For example, unlimited calling packages are more expensive than metered services, but they can be helpful for businesses that rely on hours of conversation each month.
You’ll also want to consider the cost of international calls if you use VoIP for business purposes. Calls to non-US countries are more expensive than domestic ones, so choose a provider offering lower rates.
For an average-sized business, a hosted VoIP system will cost between $20 and $30 per user each month. You can also use softphone software, which is more economical and simpler to set up, or desk IP phones, which perform similarly to analog desk phones but have the capacity to connect to the Internet for VoIP capabilities.
Scalability
Scalability is a term used to describe the ability of a computer application or software system to handle a growing amount of work by adding resources. Businesses need a system that allows them to adapt quickly and efficiently as they grow.
Regarding business communication, VoIP and SIP phones are both scalable solutions. However, SIP is a more flexible option that offers more capabilities than VoIP.
It’s also more compatible with existing devices. This can make it easier for your company to integrate SIP into its existing systems and reduces downtime.
A scalable solution is ideal for businesses that need to add or remove users. It also allows adding more features without sacrificing efficiency or call quality.
Flexibility
Today’s businesses increasingly rely on digital communications, and efficient phone systems like VoIP help boost their productivity and employee morale. The technology is highly flexible and enables businesses to connect with customers remotely, no matter where they are.
A VoIP system can offer a wide range of features, including conferencing and video calls, email support, voicemails, and instant messaging, all in a secure environment that can be accessed anywhere. This flexibility allows employees to be productive, whether they are in the office or on business trips.
Scalability is a critical factor in VoIP systems, and it offers extreme flexibility in pricing. New lines and features can be added quickly, often from a web portal, at a monthly fixed rate.
VoIP can also be integrated with various Unified Communication tools to support voice, text, conferencing, and mobility. This can provide immediate cost savings and allow companies to scale to unlock new productivity tools.
Security
VoIP networks are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, so you must take security measures and procedures into account. Several attacks can damage your network, from Denial of Service (DoS) to war dialing and toll fraud.
The best VoIP providers implement robust encryption mechanisms, efficient firewall rules, and more to fend off hackers. Some of these measures include NAT or network address translation, which reroutes traffic to a private IP address.
Another danger is phreaking attacks, in which hackers get access to your phone system and make long-distance calls, modify your calling preferences, add extra account credits, and make any additional phone calls. Additionally, they alter call forwarding and routing settings, access voicemails, and steal saved billing information.
In addition to implementing strong password policies, you should educate your employees on security practices and train them to spot phishing scams. You should also conduct regular security assessments to discover emerging vulnerabilities.