SIP Communications is the routing protocol for enabling voice and video interactions within a network. The underlying technology is based on IP networks. In short, it is a way to link two or more IP networks, using routing protocols such as SIP, IP packets, and RTP. When VoIP is used, a single communication has the characteristics of both voice and data. The primary purpose of this protocol is to allow users to make phone calls over broadband connections.
VoIP is a relatively new protocol, but already people are making great use of it. The backbone of VoIP is SIP, Shortest Path Protocol. SIP is a flexible standard that allows users to dial phone numbers by using any IP source. The transport protocol is an important component of VoIP, which enables you to place phone calls from any IP source, even if it is not local.
There are three basic elements of SIP: the SIP server, the SIP protocol, and the IP phones. The server is responsible for carrying out all the functions of the entire system. The server can be a computer, a router or a service provider such as AT&T. The protocol is a special connection established between the SIP server and the IP phones. These IP phones are configured to recognize the SIP protocol and use it to transmit and receive real-time communications.
Let’s look at the typical features of SIP. Most common is the “routing protocol”. This feature consists of SIP headers and SIP packets, which are used to identify and establish telephone calls. Other common features include SIP expiration dates, SIP busy indication, SIP call waiting, and SIP call resuming.
Another important aspect of using sip communications for business purposes is the cost savings associated with deploying sip trunking. As mentioned before, sip trunks are delivered via the Internet and appear as normal low-cost local or toll-free calls. However, these calls are much more costly than regular long-distance calls. The primary reason for this is the additional cost savings that the user experiences by using sip trunks instead of traditional long distance carriers. By installing and utilizing sip trunks, a business can experience up to forty percent cost savings.
Another advantage that businesses find with the use of sip calling is the ease-of-use. Unlike standard VOIP systems, sip calling does not require any technical skills or training. Business users simply need to download the appropriate software and then plug it into their computer. Then they can begin to make and receive real-time communications.
In addition to these cost savings, another reason why businesses are choosing to use sip communications is the strong security provided by the session initiation protocol (SIP). The SIP protocol used by sip calls ensures that all communications are encrypted and protected. It also provides end-to-end encryption, so that any information transmitted is protected. This strong security is another reason why many businesses prefer to use this type of service over traditional forms of communication.
Businesses may also choose to utilize this strong security protection along with sip communications. If a person has access to a private network, the IP address of the network can be translated into the numeric format required by SIP. Once this is done, the sip-enabled call can then transmit the information, which would be intercepted by any intruder. With the security provided by SIP, the IP address used in the call does not provide anyone access to the information transmitted, which makes this form of phone system quite secure. This feature is what makes SIP trunks such a great option for companies working towards eliminating long-distance charges.
