Many organizations have moved to an Integrated Communications Strategy, which usually includes VoIP. The benefits of this voice-over internet protocol usually include cheaper long-distance and international calling rates, improved customer relations, and better performance in the workplace.
Although VoIP comes with a range of benefits, it must be properly implemented and managed to avoid problems. Here are some common issues you may come across if VoIP isn’t used correctly.
Routers and Switches
If your VoIP system isn’t working properly, it could be due to a problem with your router or switch. Make sure that they’re configured correctly to support VoIP, and check for any updates that might have affected the configuration. Also, make sure that the ports on your switch are configured to support VLANs.
Older routers that are not up-to-date with the latest software might cause compatibility problems and decreased performance. If you’re experiencing VoIP issues, try resetting your router. There’s no guarantee it will work, but it’s worth a shot.
Bandwidth
If you want optimal VoIP performance, then you need to have enough bandwidth. Try to avoid having continuous network congestion. If the problem only happens sometimes, see which application or service requires a lot of bandwidth during those times.
You should have bandwidth monitoring on your normal network management tasklist, so issues with insufficient or poor quality connectivity can be identified and dealt with quickly. However, sometimes a network issue is beyond your control – it might be caused by factors at your ISP (Internet Service Provider), for example.
Desktop Problems
Echo — This is one of the most common VoIP issues. It’s created when the handset volume is set too high and the microphone hears the incoming call from the earpiece, and then rebroadcasts it.
The most common solution is to lower the volume on both ends. However, this doesn’t always work, and another option is to use a headset. But even headsets have their own set of problems, like ergonomics since they can be worn for long periods of time.
Training — A possibility is that the problem lies in user training—or lack thereof. “It’s just a phone” has been used as an reason to skimp on training budget, but VoIP systems are complex and comprehensive solutions. Therefore, proper education is key to taking advantage of all benefits.
At TSC VoIP, we currently offer a full complement of VoIP and UCaaS services. We are also pleased to offer no-cost, no-obligation quotes for business class phone systems and service. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business!