6 Simple steps to improve VoIP call quality
Modern VoIP phone systems are the new standard in business communications. By using the internet to facilitate calls, VoIP reduces overhead and provides chock full of features that you could never get with a traditional landline system.
But VoIP call quality can be affected by a number of factors, including internet speed, hardware, and software configurations. To ensure high-quality calls, follow these six simple tips.
Buy high-quality headsets
There are headsets that go for as low as $10, but don’t expect them to produce the same sound quality as a $100 one. Cheap headsets usually have terrible microphones, thin cables, and extremely short lifespans.
On the other hand, your headset shouldn’t be this fancy.
Instead, invest in corded, well-insulated headsets with noise-cancelling microphones, and comfortable ear cups. Wireless headsets are also an option, but these are a bit more expensive and less stable compared to the corded varieties.
Optimize internet bandwidth
Internet bandwidth usage also affects call quality. If the caller’s voice sounds robotic, that means other online activities like downloading files, streaming videos, or browsing the web are using up your network’s overall internet bandwidth. Closing any unnecessary web applications and processes while you’re in a call is the easiest solution for maximizing internet bandwidth
URL filtering solutions will help you restrict access to known bandwidth hogging sites like Facebook and YouTube. You can also configure your router to reserve enough bandwidth for VoIP calls. If you take this route, make sure to allocate around 100kbps download and upload speeds for calls and 1Mbps for conference calls.
Fix call jitters
When you use a VoIP system, audio is broken up into data packets that are transmitted in chronological order. But network congestion and configuration errors can cause these data packets to arrive out of order, resulting in jittery calls.
“Wait, did you want sixteen or sixty orders?”
The easiest way to fix this problem is to upgrade to CAT6 Ethernet cables since they transmit data packets quickly and are not susceptible to network congestion. If new cables don’t ‘unjitter’ your VoIP system, ask your VoIP provider to install a jitter buffer, which temporarily stores data packets, processes them, and ensures they reach their destination in the correct sequence.
Avoid phone interference
Buzzing or static in VoIP calls indicates that other devices in the office may be interfering with your signal. This problem occurs when there are smartphones and other wireless devices in the area, so use Ethernet connections when possible.
In cases where Ethernet-connected handsets aren’t available, Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) phones allow you to use your VoIP system without any interference issues since they operate on their own radio frequency.
Get a VoIP router
You’re bound to experience call issues if you route your data and voice packets over the same internal network. VoIP-dedicated routers will allow you to prioritize voice traffic and prevent other applications from consuming all available bandwidth.
Ask a professional
If call quality issues persist, certified VoIP experts can help. They’ll conduct comprehensive assessments to identify whether your VoIP issues are hardware, software, or network related, and fix them right away.
Red Key Solutions is a managed services provider in New York that offers extensive VoIP solutions and support. We handle all the technical VoIP issues so you can enjoy crisp, crystal-clear calls. Contact us today to get started!
