What is Voice over IP (VoIP)?

Voice over IP (VoIP), also known as Internet telephony, refers to the technology by which voice traffic is transmitted over an Internet connection. Unlike traditional telephony, which uses landlines, VoIP offers flexibility, lower costs and the ability to transfer voice, data and video over a variety of devices. These include smartphones, laptops, tablets and VoIP phones.


How does Voice over IP work?

With VoIP, voice or video is converted into digital signals, which are then sent in data packets over the Internet. To use VoIP, you need:

  • An Internet connection.
    A VoIP internet service such as Xelion.
    A SIP trunk to connect to the public phone network

Key protocols that support VoIP:

  • RTP (Real Time Transport Protocol): Responsible for transmitting media such as voice and video.
    SIP (Session Initiation Protocol): For starting, modifying and terminating calls.
    WebRTC (Real-time audio and video).

The benefits of Voice over IP

VoIP technology has numerous advantages for businesses and individuals:

Reducing costs:
Lower monthly phone charges.
Free calls within VoIP networks and low rates for international calls.
Flexibility and scalability:
Multiple calls simultaneously using the Internet.
Easily expandable without additional cabling.
Advanced features:
Standard features such as call forwarding and caller ID.
Support for unified communications through solutions such as Xelion, including voice, video and instant messaging.
Flexible working:
Take your business number anywhere via mobile devices or laptops.
Easy setup:
No expensive infrastructure required.
Suitable for both small and large enterprises.
High call quality:
Excellent sound quality with minimal interference, provided there is a stable Internet connection.


The downsides of Voice over IP

Although VoIP offers many benefits, there are some concerns:

Internet dependence:
Power outages or a poor Internet connection can impact call quality.


Frequently used VoIP terms explained

  1. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Sending voice over the Internet.
  2. SIP (Session Initiation Protocol): For multimedia communications.
  3. PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network): Traditional telephone networks.
  4. PBX (Private Branch eXchange): A telephone exchange within a company.
  5. IVR (Interactive Voice Response): Automatic dialing menu for callers.

Why switch to VoIP?

With the transition to VoIP technology, businesses are taking a step toward modernizing their communications. Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, VoIP offers a cost-effective, flexible and scalable solution. Choose Xelion as a reliable and innovative Dutch VoIP provider and benefit from lower costs, better functionalities and improved customer service.


Want to learn more about VoIP solutions from Xelion? Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation!