12 February 2019
Ten ways AI will impact enterprise Communications
Here are 10 ways AI will impact enterprise communication and collaboration. Article by Ross Sedgewick, Unify
MoreBusiness Telecom: VoIP, SIP & Cloud Telephony Explained
In today’s fast-moving business world, outdated phone systems can hold your company back. If you're still relying on traditional landlines, you might be missing out on cost savings, flexibility, and powerful features that modern business telecom solutions offer.
Technologies like VoIP (Voice over IP), SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), and Cloud Telephony are transforming how companies communicate. But with so many options, how do you know which one is right for your business?
This guide breaks down these technologies in simple terms, explains their benefits, and helps you decide which solution aligns with your company’s needs—without the confusing jargon.
What Are VoIP, SIP, and Cloud Telephony?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
VoIP allows voice calls to be transmitted over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. It converts your voice into digital data packets, sending them over broadband connections.
Why Businesses Use VoIP:
- Cost-effective – No expensive landline contracts.
- Scalable – Easily add or remove lines.
- Feature-rich – Call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, video conferencing.
SIP (Session Initiation Protocol)
SIP is the technology that sets up, manages, and terminates VoIP calls. Think of it as the "traffic controller" for internet-based communications.
Key Benefits of SIP Trunking:
- Flexibility – Works with existing PBX systems.
- Multi-channel – Supports voice, video, and messaging.
- Reliability – Redundancy options minimize downtime.
Cloud Telephony (Hosted PBX)
Cloud telephony takes VoIP a step further by hosting your entire phone system in the cloud. No physical hardware (except phones or softphones) is needed.
Why Companies Switch to Cloud Telephony:
- No maintenance – The provider handles updates.
- Remote-friendly – Employees can work from anywhere.
- Disaster recovery – Calls continue even if your office loses power.
How Business Telecom's Benefit Your Business (Real-World Applications)
Cost Savings
- VoIP eliminates long-distance charges.
- SIP trunking reduces line rental costs.
- Cloud telephony cuts hardware and maintenance expenses.
Enhanced Mobility
- Employees can answer calls from laptops or smartphones.
- Integrations with CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).
Scalability
- Easily add new users without installing physical lines.
- Seasonal businesses can scale up/down as needed.
Common Misconceptions (Debunked)
Myth: "VoIP call quality is unreliable."
Fact: With a strong internet connection, VoIP often sounds clearer than traditional calls.
Myth: "Cloud telephony isn’t secure."
Fact: Reputable providers use encryption and compliance measures (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
Myth: "SIP is only for large enterprises."
Fact: Small businesses benefit from SIP’s flexibility and cost savings.
Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business
Best for Startups & Small Teams:
- VoIP apps (e.g., Zoom Phone, Microsoft Teams) – Low upfront costs.
Growing Businesses:
- SIP trunking – If you have an existing PBX system.
- Cloud telephony – For full remote-work capabilities.
Enterprises:
- Hybrid systems – Combine SIP and cloud for redundancy.
Next Steps: How to Transition Smoothly
- Audit your current business telecom setup.
- Check your internet bandwidth (VoIP needs ~100kbps per call).
- Choose a reliable telecoms provider (look for uptime guarantees).
- Train your team on new features (e.g., call analytics, auto-attendants).
Upgrading your business telecom system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you choose VoIP, SIP, or cloud telephony, the right solution can cut costs, improve efficiency, and future-proof your communications.
Is VoIP suitable for businesses with poor internet?
VoIP requires a stable internet connection. If your bandwidth is limited, consider a hybrid system or upgrading your broadband before switching.
Can I keep my existing phone numbers when switching to VoIP or cloud telephony?
Yes, most providers support number porting, allowing you to retain your current business numbers.
How secure is cloud telephony compared to traditional phone systems?
Cloud telephony providers implement strong security measures, including encryption and multi-factor authentication, often making them more secure than legacy systems.
What’s the difference between VoIP and SIP?
VoIP is the technology that enables internet-based calls, while SIP is the protocol that manages those calls. SIP can also handle video and messaging, whereas VoIP is primarily for voice.
Can I use VoIP for international calls without high costs?
Yes, one of the biggest advantages of VoIP is low-cost international calling. Many providers offer unlimited international plans or per-minute rates far cheaper than traditional carriers.
Do I need special hardware for cloud telephony?
Not necessarily. You can use IP phones, softphones (software-based phones), or even mobile apps to make and receive calls.
What happens if my internet goes down with a VoIP system?
Many providers offer failover options, such as automatically forwarding calls to mobile devices or backup numbers, ensuring business continuity.