No matter what your business’s IT infrastructure looks like today, there is always room for improvement. Some upgrades are worth the time and effort while others lack a sufficient return on investment. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is one of the worthy upgrades regardless of a business’s size, location, or industry.
If you don’t have a VoIP system, make the switch from landline phones a top priority. If you have one but don’t feel like it’s living up to the promises of high-definition audio quality and cost savings, let us help you diagnose the issue.
The root causes of poor communication issues in small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are usually related to either outdated or DIY technology management. Complete Technology earned the title of 19th fastest growing company in Kansas City by providing big-picture solutions to these core issues.
Sure, we fix sudden and unexpected VoIP problems for our clients, but that’s a rare occurrence because of how thorough our technicians are about proactive maintenance. Here are some examples:
Fixing VoIP call echoes
Hearing an echo of your own voice on a phone call is distracting and frustrating. Although some people soldier on and assume it’s a problem inherent to internet-based telephony, that’s far from true.
We have several recommendations for VoIP systems that have built-in echo cancellation software, but if switching platforms would be too painful, you can also try upgrading your headsets and handsets. One of the biggest problems with budget hardware is poorly insulated cables that either cut out or echo data transmission.
Eliminating VoIP call static
A large number of our clients are constrained by limited IT budgets. We weathered similar challenges in our early days and make a point to think critically before recommending the newest or shiniest tools. Sometimes the smart play is to optimize what you have for a little longer, which in the VoIP world might equate to analog telephone adapters (ATAs).
These small devices let you plug traditional landline phones into internet jacks. It’s a good way to put off buying advanced handsets but it’s also the most common cause of static on VoIP calls. The first thing to try is unplugging your ATA and then plugging it back in. If that doesn’t work, you should confirm that the adapter is powered by a compatible power supply.
In case none of these tips work, request a free consultation from our team regarding other budget-friendly fixes.
Getting rid of stuttering audio
Like anything else relayed over the internet, VoIP calls are very fast sequences of ones and zeroes. Call audio that starts and stops or drops in and out is a sign that some of those ones and zeroes are getting lost in transmission. The thing we’d suggest doing is checking your internet connection.
Start by typing “test my internet speed” into Google and click Run Speed Test. First, you’ll see the results of your connection’s download speed, but to diagnose choppy audio, you need your upload speed, which comes second. VoIP calls require a tiny fraction of what most of today’s connections provide, so anything over 5 Mbps means you can eliminate bandwidth as the culprit.
[company_short]’s consultants can help you to determine which equipment and vendors are best suited to your priorities. In doing so, we’ll enable you to optimize costs, mitigate risk, and enjoy enhanced return on investment.
Connection delay
This is another annoying problem that people mistakenly assume is inherent to internet phones. It’s when there is a long pause between when the caller dials the last number and when they get feedback such as ringing, a busy signal, or a connected call. It’s pretty jarring to hear nothing but silence followed by “...Hello?”
This problem usually stems from a complicated bit of VoIP technology known as Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). All you need to know about it is that in an effort to save money, your provider may be forcing your calls to jump through too many SIP hurdles. Calling your provider and asking about the connection delay is your best shot at fixing this issue, aside from letting us manage your whole system.
Beyond call quality that is superior to landlines, VoIP systems are also more economical and scalable. If that hasn’t been your experience, then it’s time to switch to Kansas City’s premier IT support and consulting provider. To learn more about Complete Technology’s managed IT services plans, download our free eBook today.
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