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Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows voice-based communication over the internet. VoIP systems, also referred to as internet protocol (IP) telephony or internet telephony, is simply the technology that lets you make voice calls over the internet. Originally considered inferior to phone-based connections, VoIP systems are now used globally.
The VoIP market size has increased in recent years. While some businesses still prefer traditional phone connections, VoIP traffic increased by over 212% in 2020. This increase was due to the sudden shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the market continues to grow, with more businesses turning to VoIP technology and IP based communication.
SIP integration
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is a communication protocol that enables the transfer of media content over the internet. As an open-source protocol, it is not limited to voice transfer. This is the protocol that lets you video call, send instand messages and share files over the internet, among other things.
VoIP technology is facilitated by SIP, which allows both voice and video communication. Independently, VoIP technology is sufficient for voice communication over the internet. However, if you are looking for a multimedia approach, SIP integration is necessary. WhatsApp, Skype, Discord, and Zoom, popular social media and communication apps that most of us use daily, are just some examples of apps that use SIP integration for their services.
SIP trunking
A SIP trunk offers a virtual phone connection, without needing a landline. SIP trunking enables long-distance, IP phone calls without requiring an internet setup at the receiving end. SIP provider allows multiple channels to connect to your private telephone network, or PBX, at the same time. These channels move through the trunk to establish a connection.
SIP trunking is an advanced and more flexible alternative to Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN). An ISDN requires physical, wired connections to phone networks, with expensive installation and the need for regular maintenance. Popular during the 1990s, it is being quickly replaced with more advanced technology. If you are looking to be rid of wires and bulky installation, you likely prefer a SIP trunk.
Why choose SIP
SIP integrations are known for their flexibility, as they are not limited by the type of communication session or the media being used. This of course leaves multimedia opportunities open, something businesses need more than ever with remote work. As an open-source protocol, it is also compatible with different video and voice transmission-based programs.
There are no limitations to its integrations and businesses are able to customize how they implement SIP in their communication system. SIP is also highly adaptable, which means it can cater to different user capabilities. In a single call, for example, if you only have audio technology and the other members of the call are video-enabled, the latter are able to see and access video features without needing to revert to audio-only.
SIP is a comparatively low-cost alternative to traditional connections. It consolidates various data transmission and media types under a single network. As there is no huge initial investment requirement, you can see immediate returns on SIP investments. As a business solution, it drastically improves communication at lower costs.
H.323 suite integration
The H.323 protocol suite was originally developed to allow video conferencing by tapping into existing ISDN infrastructure. It later became the first signaling protocol to adopt Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that enables the IP suite. Its real-time transport protocol (RTP) was adopted to enable video and audio streaming over IP networks.
The H.323 integration is a suite, with multiple protocols offering various services. These include:
Call Signaling and Control Protocol
The H.225 Call Signalling protocol establishes a connection between two endpoints, or between an endpoint and a gateway. The subsequent H.245 Control Protocol allows communication between endpoints, opening and closing channels for voice and video. These features are similar in functionality to SIP, which let you make voice and video calls.
RTP and Real-time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP)
RTP and RTCP are used for the real-time transfer of media between endpoints. While RTP delivers media data, Real-time Transport Control (RTCP) offers support by monitoring the delivery of the data.
This is done by carrying statistical data, which includes a record of the number of bytes and packets sent, any packets lost, and any delays in delivery. These protocols also work in a very similar way to SIP.
Registration, Admission, and Status (RAS) protocol
The RAS protocol is unique to the H.323 suite. It offers a hierarchical call signaling structure, which can create a centralized VoIP network between various locations and branches. Endpoints use the RAS protocol to communicate with gatekeepers, and vice versa, to enable phone connections over remote servers.
For example, your company may have several, geographically dispersed locations that require a single database, updated in real-time, for day-to-day operations. This type of database- and the communication required between the different branches, can be established with a RAS protocol.
SIP vs. H.323- which is better?
The industry popularity of SIP is based on some valid benefits it offers over the H.323 suite. SIP is largely considered more scalable and flexible, as it can be integrated into larger networks and adapted to new and different applications. It uses ASCII text for communication, and its modular design improves functionality. H.323 lacks this capability and is more limited in its functionality.
The H.323 suite is based on telephony protocols and was originally designed to supplement local area networks (LAN). Its various protocols keep a more stringent eye on what data can be allowed to pass through and improve interoperations in centralized networks.
However, in addition to a lack of scalability, the suite does not leave much room for custom adaptations. Put simply, you may not be able to make it work with all the apps and programs your company uses. Future technology, therefore, may not be supported by H.323 systems.
Conclusion
As businesses today require a flexible, multimedia approach, SIP continues to gain in popularity. Its flexible design and adaptable protocols leave more room for businesses to establish networks at low investment costs and higher returns. While H.323 has much to offer, its issues with flexibility make it difficult to assimilate in constantly modernizing technology.
