VoIP Pitfalls
As with all evolving software and hardware technologies, VoIP has potential pitfalls. The most commonly cited drawbacks include:
Some consumers still consider VoIP to be too technologically complex. However, this argument falls by the wayside as VoIP setup and administration are becoming simpler than using a microwave oven.
Some VoIP services do not operate during power outages without battery backup. This issue can be mitigated with an inexpensive battery backup system.
Some VoIP callers must manually enter their current location online to be identified by a 911 dispatcher. The ubiquitous nature of IP can make it difficult to locate users geographically. This is an item being addressed by both federal mandates and new technology. E911 is a method by which United States VoIP service providers can support emergency services by automatically associating the caller’s physical address with their telephone number. E911 is required by the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 and is being successfully implemented and used by many providers to deliver physical address information to emergency service operators.
Poor broadband Internet connections can cause call quality problems. Some form of broadband is normally necessary to achieve a reasonable quality call using VoIP.
VoIP uses an Internet protocol called UDP which provides greater speed but doesn’t provide the same levels of reliability as the more popular TCP Internet protocol. VoIP implementations can require troubleshooting and fine-tuning to resolve issues with Quality of Service (QoS), latency, echo, packet loss, and jitter. This is particularly true where VoIP calls cover large global distances or use satellite circuits.
Some VoIP implementations create temporary conflicts with network equipment such as firewalls, switches, and web accelerators. Session Border Controllers can be used alongside firewalls to permit and manage VoIP calls with protected networks.
Using VoIP for fax distribution has trailed VoIP for calling. VoIP voice codes are not well designed for fax signals and transmission as the fax signals don’t fit as well in the VoIP channel.
Any particular VoIP service provider influences each obstacle, and all can be mitigated with advanced planning. In the near term, each pitfall will likely be resolved as technology advances.