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Types of VoIP Solutions

 

 

 

 

A number of different VoIP solutions are available which are tailored to suit the specific needs of different groups of users. Each solution varies in its functionality, underlying technology and approach to implementation, which in turn impacts on cost, scalability, performance and complexity.

The more common VoIP implementations include the following:

Business-grade VoIP telephony

  • Requires a number of infrastructure upgrades and placements
  • Designed specifically for business grade usage
  • Costs significantly more than software-based VoIP solutions
  • High functionality, reliability, quality of service, can offer strong security, scalable
  • Best suited for deployments with a requirement of more than 10 separate endpoint handsets
  • Usually requires an IT specialist – either internal or via a service provider – to analyse the business needs and tailor an appropriate solution

VoIP handsets / adapters

  • Requires a VoIP handset or adaptor package from the service provider, alongside broadband Internet connection and router
  • These offer call functionality and services similar to that of typical PSTN services (eg call forwarding, voicemail, caller ID, time screening etc.)

Instant Messaging voice services

  • Requires a computer workstation / laptop a broadband Internet connection and the instant messaging software
  • Services such as AIM, MSN and QQ may offer ‘voice chat’ functionality
  • Allows free voice chat with other users on your contact list
  • Very limited call functionality

Mobile VoIP

  • Requires mobile telephone with 3G connectivity or wireless connectivity
  • Using a mobile version of a softphone mobile devices and telephones are capable of offering VoIP services
  • The technology may require additional connection and ongoing costs
  • The full functionality of these services is limited to areas which have 3G coverage