What are the Disadvantages of using VoIP?

VoIP

VoIP

The use of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in business is rapidly becoming popular worldwide. While this technology has several advantages, it also has its share of cons, just like any other product. These cons can be frustrating. However, the best VoIP providers find ways to work through these liabilities, giving you a better experience.

So, what are the disadvantages of VoIP? Let’s have a look.

You need a Reliable Internet Connection.

VoIP services are only reliable as long as you have a good internet connection. If your network’s bandwidth is low, you can be sure to experience poor VoIP services. While it doesn’t require significant bandwidth, as you may expect, your VoIP devices must receive a low network latency to operate.

Always ensure that each device has a minimum of 100kbps upload speed. A reliable connection often has below 70ms jitter and pings, which measure the stability and latency of your internet connectivity. Your planned concurrent calls will determine your business bandwidth needs. To identify the ideal bandwidth for your business, you need to operate a bandwidth test on your current network. Must read the advantages of cloud phone.

Jitter and Latency

Besides speed, internet-based technology also suffers jitter and latency. Online communication, including audio, video, and email messages, is usually broken into data bits known as data packets. These data packets are then combined at their specific destination to create the initial message.

Jitter and latency often occur when data packets encounter transmission delays or are combined inappropriately. Your network might not be the issue in this case; major internet pillars amend data routes for reliable traffic delivery. These changes are independent; hence you don’t have to be involved.

Why Jitter and Latency Occur

Unreliable Internet – for VoIP to operate effectively, you need more bandwidth than normal web surfing. If your internet connectivity is poor, you might consider having an honest engagement with your ISP.

Inappropriate router – you need a specialized VoIP router to operate VoIP service smoothly. The router is configured to prioritize packets and offer voice traffic a higher priority over data.

Inadequate cables – Ethernet cables come in different power levels and categories. For VoIP to work well, you need to use Ethernet cables with a Cat-5e power level or more. Low power cables may not be efficient enough to operate at maximum speed.

How to Fix Jitter and Latency Challenges

Activate jitter buffering – setting up jitter buffering is easy and comes pre-activated with different devices.

Install high-speed Internet – ensure you reach out to your internet provider to know the different bandwidth options available, then opt for the one with a high speed.

Use advanced Ethernet cables – for all VoIP devices, make sure you use CAT-5e or CAT 6 Ethernet cables.

Emergency Calls Limited Tracking

Emergency 911 calls are a significant VoIP concern. Unlike traditional phone systems, which can trace your location and divert calls to the nearest call center if you can’t communicate, VoIP usually transfers data between two IP addresses and not physical addresses. You can hardly determine the origin of a VoIP phone call.

Though many firms are working around the clock to ensure emergency calls are part of their services, the issue is still a significant challenge against VoIP.

Voice Quality

VoIP has a long way to go in terms of voice quality, but not in all cases. The VoIP quality of service is determined by several factors including, your hardware, broadband connection, and call destination. There are so many people enjoying high-quality voices from VoIP services. However, some users complain of hearing disrupted responses or having to wait longer to hear the response.

Security

Just like other internet technologies, security is a primary area of concern with VoIP. The most common VoIP issues include service theft and identity, malware and viruses, service denial, phishing attacks, call tampering, and spamming.

Extra Costs

With VoIP services, if you phone someone without VoIP capabilities, you might incur extra costs. Domestic customers also have to use headphones to make and receive international phone calls; buying headphones is another expense. This could change if traditional phones are modified to serve the same purpose.

Bottom Line

No doubt, Voice over Internet Protocols’ advantages outweigh the disadvantages, and in the next few years, these challenges will not exist. VoIP service providers are working around the clock to resolve these issues and ensure utmost usefulness, reliability, and significant consumer acceptance of VoIP services.

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