Beginner’s Guide to SIP Trunking
SIP Trunking is a form of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) telephony that provides a voice connection using data rather than a fixed-line. It uses Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), a signalling protocol which packages voice into data packets, enabling them to be sent via the internet to a SIP Trunking provider’s IP calling network and then out to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
It is a replacement solution for the traditional ISDN lines that transmit data and voice digitally, over physically wired connections. Although, most VoIP services boast an ideal ISDN replacement, SIP Trunking allows you to make and receive calls using IP technology without needing to completely replace your PBX, making it the perfect solution for businesses who aren’t yet ready to move to a fully hosted system. This may be because they do not want to replace their on-premise PBX or they do not want to re-invest in new telephony equipment.
Benefits of SIP Trunking:
Increased flexibility
SIP Trunking is extremely versatile and is well suited to businesses who are moving premises and wanting to maintain their existing number structure. It allows for the easy manipulation of outbound numbers so that you have control of where your calls originate from.
Greater scalability
You can scale up or down with ease, depending on business requirements, which is ideal if you are expecting periods of extreme growth. It allows for instant expansion when needed, depending on the volume of incoming and outgoing calls
More resilience
With SIP, it is incredibly easy to move or divert fixed lines to any location, without expensive call forwarding costs. It allows you to be prepared for any eventuality, with a robust disaster recovery plan and backup facilities in place. You are also able to divert calls instantly, minimising the impact of a disaster on business operations.
Lower cost
SIP channels have a lower rental cost compared to traditional ISDN lines and, in addition, most providers can offer inclusive calls to UK numbers and mobiles. International calls are cheaper using SIP trunking in comparison to traditional PSTN calls and often chargeable calling and network features are provided for free compared to ISDN.
Productivity boosted via UC
SIP Trunking providers have now integrated UC applications such as softphone clients, instant messaging, voicemail, conferencing and call recording into their SIP Trunking solutions. This means all of a business’ telephony needs can be handled in one portal and one place.
Smooth transition to IP
SIP Trunking allows you to begin your journey to IP. The right SIP trunking provider will be able to give you a transition plan, so if you are not ready to replace your PBX equipment they will be able to move your number to the IP network then, at later stage, the move to a fully hosted system is a much more simple process with no service downtime.
To find out more about the SIP solutions available from DWS, contact us today to speak to a member of our team.