What is SIP calling?
SIP calling is also known as Session Initiation Protocol calling. Session Initiation Protocol is a signaling protocol used for initiating, maintaining and terminating communication sessions over VoIP and other Internet and cloud-based communication platforms. SIP calling is often interchanged with VoIP calling, however, that isn’t exactly correct. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a broader term that refers to a group of technologies used for sending and receiving phone calls made over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. While SIP is one individual technology that supports VoIP. In addition to voice calls, SIP protocol is used to transmit various data, including video chats and video calls, video conferencing, instant messaging and other multimedia communications.
Apart from initiating telephone calls, a SIP phone system is capable of performing other VoIP functions, such as identifying user location, determining their availability to respond and whether the recipient’s device is compatible with the initiated call type, transferring and terminating calls, etc.
How does SIP calling work?
A traditional phone system consists of three core parts:
- Private Branch Exchange (PBX), an on-premises telephone system that manages calls.
- Primary Rate Interface (PRI) lines that connect calls to the PSTN.
- Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) that routes calls to their destination.
SIP calling basically allows omitting PRI lines as it uses a SIP trunk (which is a virtual connection) that directly connects PBX with PSTN over the Internet. SIP calling also removes the need for multiple phone lines which allows for easier and cheaper scalability as compared to using traditional business phone lines.
Since each SIP trunk can hold an unlimited number of channels (a channel is equivalent to one incoming or outgoing call), a business would require a single SIP trunk regardless of the number of concurrent calls. Instead of purchasing additional phone lines that usually come in clusters of 23 (which is typically more than actually used), with SIP calling you can buy one channel at a time only when it’s needed. Besides, SIP calling provides significant cost-savings in business communications as local, long-distance and international calls can be made by simply using the internet connection.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of SIP calling?
SIP calling unlocks an array of benefits for businesses. A SIP phone system is easy to set up, manage and scale whenever needed without the need for adding more telephone lines. It allows for greater cost efficiency by eliminating multiple networks, excess hardware, installation and maintenance costs. Since SIP calls can be received on all kinds of laptop and mobile devices and easily routed, that helps make your business more available for customers and employees.
Who should use SIP Calling?
SIP calling is widely adopted by small businesses and startups in a variety of sectors due to its effortless implementation, flexibility, easy accessibility across devices, scalability, reliability and cost efficiency. Many organizations use it for both external and internal communications. Though larger businesses might be challenged by switching to SIP trunking and taking their PBX system to the cloud, they can also benefit from the long-term cost savings on their communication expenses.
Is it possible to make SIP calls in LiveAgent?
LiveAgent call center software can be integrated with a variety of third-party apps, including a number of SIP trunking providers, such as Twilio. You can easily connect softphones as another device, add your SIP provider and make SIP calls in LiveAgent, while these calls will still be handled, recorded and tracked by LiveAgent’s own robust network infrastructure. For adding your own SIP provider into LiveAgent, please refer to this guide: Integration of SIP provider for hosted licenses.
Expert note
SIP calling is a technology that allows communication sessions over VoIP and the internet, enabling cost savings, scalability, and ease of use for businesses.
The given text promotes LiveAgent, a customer service software that includes features such as VoIP phone systems, self-service software, inbound call center software, complaint management system, client portal software, email management software, and help desk software for startups. The company offers an affiliate program and sales contacts for interested parties. The text also mentions the ongoing installation process for new accounts and the use of cookies on their website.
The article discusses how companies can choose the right software for their call center needs by considering pricing and features. A good option is LiveAgent, which offers ticketing support software for call centers, live chat, email, social media, and knowledgebase all in one interface. There is also the option of integrating with VoIP providers like Sipcall, Voyced, and Flowroute, which offer cost-effective solutions for small to large businesses. Sip calling is explained as a signaling protocol used to initiate and terminate communication over VoIP and cloud-based communication platforms. LiveAgent offers a 14-day free trial of its services.
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