VoIP systems use more-advanced technology than existing PBX infrastructures. Consequently, VoIP offers significant cost-saving benefits, enhanced scalability and portability, and other advanced features.
VoIP gateways are the essential building blocks of VoIP systems that transfer voice and other data from public switched telephone networks (PSTN) to VoIP, which utilizes more-complex technology than a traditional Private Branch Exchange (PBX).
Standard VoIP gateways offer conversion of voice into data packets, compression and decompression (CODEC), voice data control, and routing. However, organizations should consider the following factors before selecting VoIP gateways for business use.
- Before deciding which VoIP gateway to purchase, inquire about the costs of the gateway’s features. Then compare these costs to other gateway providers’ costs.
- VoIP gateways are available in both software and hardware formats, but hardware gateways are preferred for their reliability. Unlike software programs, which depend on computers to provide them with processing, hardware-based gateways are devices that are separate from computers and have their own data and supply interfaces.
- VoIP gateways with greater packet-processing capabilities help avoid poor voice quality. Sophisticated VoIP gateways can handle multiple calls. Ask gateway providers if they will allow extra loads or if you must upgrade or replace your gateway.
- Another important feature is data-compression capability. Usually, VoIP gateways compress voice into 64-kbps packets. However, some gateways can even provide 24 kbps to around 5 kbps of compression per call.
- VoIP gateways should be compatible with existing and future technologies. Make sure that the PBX trunk circuit ports match those provided on the VoIP gateway.
- Since VoIP gateways convert analog signals to IP signals, these devices require foreign exchange ports (FXP) for analog lines. VoIP gateways with just one or two ports aren’t designed for business use, which requires at least four FXP ports.
- VoIP gateways need to be compatible with existing VoIP protocols. Currently, two protocols - the ITU-T H.323 and Systems Initiation Protocol (SIP) - exist today.
- Lastly, inquire whether adequate levels of support will be available. Factors such as warranties, troubleshooting, online support, and the cost of support, if applicable, are significant when selecting a VoIP provider.
