sip problems

The 7 Most Common Types of SIP Problems and How to Avoid Them

You already know that ISDN and PTSN have started to walk the green mile. BT will pull the plug by 2025. What are the alternatives? You can be certain it will involve intelligent use of global internet networks.

The U.S ranks seventh in the world for high-speed fixed broadband. The top download speed is over 100 Mbps.

Global speeds will continue to increase. The future of global telecommunications is tied to the internet.

SIP trunking is the technology that will allow your business to plug its telecommunication system into the internet. Maybe you have heard or even read about types of SIP problems.

Don’t be put off. The rewards are huge.

SIP can save you thousands of dollars and give you a competitive edge. Read on to learn about 7 common types of SIP problems and how to avoid them.

1. Forgot Your Homework

The last time you forgot your homework was back when you were in school. Maybe you got detention back then. When it comes to SIP, it could cost you a little more than detention.

Don’t get caught by not doing your homework on SIP.

Yes, it offers advantages and yes it can save you lots of money, but you have to understand some fundamentals about the technology first before you can make good decisions.

The first problem in this list is jumping too quickly into the technology and purchasing from a provider without first understanding exactly how this technology integrates with your business. Always do your due diligence when it comes to the technology — and the provider.

2. Shaking Hands

This is all about compatibility. Not every telephone system is compatible with SIP. Even if it is compatible, you need to make sure there aren’t any licensing requirements. Check with whoever is maintaining your telephone system.

Also, make sure you check if there are further costs associated with the integration of SIP. After all, you want to save money. You don’t want to spend a fortune in initial costs that outweigh any savings that SIP can deliver.

3. Nearer the Better

This is all about infrastructure. In turn, infrastructure has a major effect on speed. You need to make sure you can access a decent circuit like fiber optics that can support high-speed internet.

If the circuit is not good enough, you’re off to a bad start. You may need to install a new circuit which could be very expensive.

It’s also wise to find out how far you are from the exchange. The nearer you are, the better!

4. PBX Not BMX

What is PBX? It has got nothing to do with stunt bicycles. It stands for private branch exchange.

At a basic level, it’s a system that allows telephone switching between calls that come over the internet (such as Skype) and those calls that come in from a hard line that’s then shared amongst users.

Problems with the PBX set up can be related to interruptions in the internet connection itself. The best way to minimize this is to make sure you use routers that are up to date and avoid wireless wherever you can. Even though wireless is more stable than ever before, there are still many factors that can interfere with the signal.

5. Holding Hands

This is all about multiple providers. In the telecommunication chain, there are many different types of technology that must work together. There is the SIP trunk itself, the router, the internet connection, the number port, and even firewall software that must all know how to “hold hands.”

If you’re using multiple providers and a SIP problem occurs, you may find you’re being passed from one provider to the next in an attempt to track down the problem. Try to use the same provider wherever you can, to minimize bouncing back and forth between providers as you try to diagnose where the problem is coming from.

6. Age Before Beauty

This is all about prioritizing. Request QoS (quality of service) from your internet service provider so that you can prioritize traffic on the network to support your calling system.

This will help to maintain the call quality. Be aware that call quality is not directly the responsibility of your SIP provider. You may even be asked to sign an agreement stating this in your contract.

7. Pick a Number

When you switch systems you will want to keep your existing telephone numbers. This is true if you have been established for many years or if the number is easy to remember. Either way, you will want to hang on to it.

How will your old provider feel about letting you keep the number?

They may be more than a little resistant. To the point that you may just give up. Don’t.

There are ways around it but it takes patience. The good news is that SIP can port your existing numbers. You may have to complete a lot of paperwork but stick with it and give yourself lots of time.

It is worth the effort. No matter where you move your offices to or even if you are home-based, your client database will always be able to contact you on the same number.

Avoid SIP Problems by Partnering with a Reputable Provider

When it comes to the internet, there are no problems that either cannot be avoided in the first place or cannot be overcome with expert help. SIP problems are no different.

The truth is that SIP offers you great potential. But don’t rush into anything and make sure you ask plenty of questions. We can help.

Get in touch here to learn more and start your free trial. You’ve heard that it can save you money but of course, it also costs money. Learn more about our pricing plans here.