The document discusses the requirements for using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) on a network, emphasizing the need for a robust internet connection and adequate bandwidth to prevent network congestion. It highlights the benefits of VoIP, such as ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and advanced features like conference calls, while also outlining potential costs associated with service providers and necessary hardware. Overall, it serves as a guide for evaluating and implementing VoIP systems in various environments.

1. Can I Use VoIP on My Network
Can my internet handle VoIP?
The Voice over Internet Protocol technology, as we know, allows users to make calls over the
existing internet network or infrastructure. So how do we ascertain whether the networks available
in our place will be able to support VoIP services? Also, what could be the requirements for the
installation of a VoIP system? And what are the benefits and costs of VoIP? Let’s take a look at some
of the key points that should be considered for VoIP to function on a particular network.
Requirements for VoIP
Network Internet Connection
As we know that VoIP functions in conjunction with the internet so it is one of the main
prerequisites for establishing VoIP communication. The options available include both wired internet
infrastructure based on broadband services and wireless internet such as Wi-Fi modems. Both
systems utilize their specific hardware to establish VoIP services. In the case of wired broadband
services, Ethernet cables and VoIP gateway can be used. On the other hand, the wireless network
utilizes wireless internet modems in addition to Ethernet cables and VoIP gateways.
Network Bandwidth
Once the network is enabled with the internet, an analysis shall be conducted about the number of
VoIP devices that are needed to be integrated into the system. The increase in the number of
devices may slow down the network and cause problems such as network congestion especially if
the bandwidth of the internet connection is low. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the network
bandwidth to allow for a specific spare percentage of the bandwidth so that the devices can function
properly. It is recommended to use 0.1 Mbps of bandwidth for every device/phone.
VoIP Service Provider
For a VoIP system to work a VoIP service provider has to be selected. Communication between VoIP
phones or devices is made possible through the connection provided by the VoIP service provider as
they allocate numbers and allow you to make calls to each other’s devices.
Benefits and Costs for VoIP
A VoIP system offers several benefits to businesses and localities where ease of communication is a
priority.
 One of the benefits of VoIP includes the ease of installation and operation of devices. VoIP
can be deployed in a relatively quick time due to the presence of internet network
infrastructure as it only needs to be plugged into gateways to function properly.
 The VoIP devices can be PoE enabled making them cost less in terms of cabling as they can
be powered and transfer data using a single Ethernet cable.
 The overall cost of use in comparison to other voice call options makes VoIP a budget-
friendly service for businesses. The charges by the service provider per call are also low in
comparison to the traditional telephone service.

2.  VoIP allows features such as conference calls and call queues that are beneficial in business
environments.
The costs associated with VoIP include the service provider fee, internet bandwidth, cabling, and
VoIP hardware. Some of the devices needed for VoIP communication could be costly such as the
PoE-enabled VoIP devices, network switches, and gateways.
If you are considering a VoIP system or want some help and advice, just call us to speak to one of
our team.