Have you ever been so frustrated with the phones not working in your office? Something that seems so simple is causing so many issues, from disrupting client phone calls to ruining calls with potential clients. When the phones aren’t set up correctly in your office, it can cause a major headache. That’s why we recommend setting up VoIP phone systems with the right technology.

What is a VoIP phone system? VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. Essentially, it means that phone calls are transmitted through the internet rather than the traditional phone call network (PSTN).

Related Blog: When Does a VoIP Phone System Make Sense?

Reasons why VoIP phone systems are causing issues in your office.

1. Your Bandwidth

Your bandwidth is the maximum rate of data transfer across a path, from network to data to digital bandwidth. It’s important that you determine the bandwidth that you need to comfortably support your VoIP in the office. The bandwidth determines the quality of your calls and the number of lines you can support. To determine what time of bandwidth you need, click here to test your speed and determine the number of users you will need to support. In doing so, you can determine the speed you need to support your phone lines.

2. Low Quality Routers

Low quality routers have caused many issues for businesses. This isn’t a piece of equipment you should skimp out on. When you choose a low quality router, it will degrade your call quality.

3. The VoIP Equipment

To set-up a VoIP system, you will need SIP compatible telephones, preferably a Power Over Ethernet switch and ATA (Analog telephone adapter) for the analog devices operating in your office, i.e., mail machines, fax machines and paging systems. Be careful to select telephones with a Gigabit internal switch since you will most likely be hooking your computer to it. Laptops and Desktops operate at Gigabit speeds and you do not want a low cost VoIP throttling your computer access.

4. Preparation for Power Failures

Remember that the Voice over IP (VoIP) only works through your internet, so if the power goes out you need to ensure that you have a battery backup system to support your internet modem, firewall and Ethernet switch in your wiring closet.

5. Phone Locations

If you don’t have VoIP systems set up, identify where you want your phones to be. Ask yourself where it would be useful to have a phone and keep in mind that certain placements will cause installation issues and higher monthly costs. A good rule of thumb is that if there is a computer outlet already installed, you will not need a new wiring drop at that location. Keep in mind wall phones in break rooms or copy rooms will require additional cabling.

6. Hardwired or Wireless Connection

Hardwired VoIP systems are preferred for better connection. With wireless, the connections are more prone to interference and the phones typically offer less functionality. That’s why we prefer hardwired connections for our clients. Has your office been set up to accommodate this? If you don’t have available Ethernet ports, keep in mind that additional wiring is an added cost that you must take into account.

There you have it! Make sure to check these 6 things with your VoIP phone systems.

Make sure to protect your business from power failures, poor quality wires and routers, and equipment. We know phone systems can be a pain to set up and so is building a network from scratch! Through setting up your VoIP phone systems the right way, you can ensure that you get quality calls, can use the right equipment, and make your business more efficient. Let us know if you need any help.