Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

Implementing Unified Communications Systems

• Will remote work spur unified communications interoperability?

  Unified communications interoperability is gaining more attention as more employees work from home. But, while some progress is being made, there is a long way to go.  Continue Reading

• How can mobile collaboration support workers in a pandemic?

  Mobile collaboration apps help remote workers keep in touch during stay-at-home orders. They are also key to communications flexibility as workers begin returning to the office.  Continue Reading

• Private cloud shifts benefits of cloud-based unified communications

  Private cloud UCaaS is giving companies some compelling reasons to reassess their cloud-based unified communications strategies. Better performance is just one factor.  Continue Reading

• How can IT manage video conferencing interoperability?

  Video interoperability is challenging but necessary for today's enterprise. Evaluating vendor partnerships and choosing hardware that supports multiple video services are key.  Continue Reading

• How do collaboration integration and interoperability differ?

  Interoperability between collaboration platforms is scarce, but integrations are abundant. Learn why multivendor collaboration integration has more support than interoperability.  Continue Reading

• What are SBC configuration best practices?

  Proper SBC configuration requires partnering with providers and security teams to examine circuits and potential traffic. Learn the best practices for implementing an SBC on your network.  Continue Reading

• How should organizations approach API-based SIP services?

  Organizations need SIP services to connect and disconnect call sessions. Now some SIP services are offered through APIs, which expand the use cases and capabilities.  Continue Reading

• How can organizations support UC for frontline employees?

  Several challenges can make it difficult to connect frontline employees to communication and collaboration tools. Learn what approaches can improve support for frontline workers.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of UC in a cloud-based office suite?

  Adopting the UC tools within a cloud-based office suite may be the most beneficial option if users are already comfortable with the suite's features.  Continue Reading

• How can UC analytics detect a security breach?

  UC analytics can be the first warning that your UC system's security has been breached. Comparing statistics month to month can help identify potential security problems.  Continue Reading

• Comparing H.323 vs. SIP: What's the difference?

  Discover the similarities and differences of H.323 vs. SIP standards, and learn why SIP has become the de facto standard for voice and video communications.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of a UC and contact center integration?

  UC offerings that include contact center integration provide more seamless communications and engagement between office workers and contact center agents.  Continue Reading

• Should you keep your SIP trunk carrier when migrating to UCaaS?

  Migrating UC to the cloud doesn't mean leaving your SIP trunk carrier behind. Learn how bringing your own SIP to cloud services can benefit your business.  Continue Reading

• What areas should hybrid cloud video security address?

  Hybrid cloud provides several benefits to a business. But hybrid cloud video security shouldn't be taken for granted. Learn what four areas should be considered.  Continue Reading

• How can organizations address VoIP security threats?

  An unguarded VoIP system could be vulnerable to attack. Learn what security measures can help prevent VoIP security threats from affecting your organization.  Continue Reading

• Why is video interoperability a challenge?

  Learn why video calls don't have the same level of interoperability as voice calls, and what challenges the lack of video interoperability presents for organizations.  Continue Reading

• What are the challenges of unified communications security?

  Unified communications security can be disjointed, as different apps are open to different attacks. A strong UC security roadmap should address three areas.  Continue Reading

• How do you support UC network security?

  Many elements can put your UC network at risk, from unsecured information to DoS attacks. Learn five ways to thwart would-be attacks and protect your UC services.  Continue Reading

• Where does mobile video messaging fit in the enterprise?

  Mobile video messaging has come a long way from its introduction to the enterprise. With the rise of remote work, mobile video has become more necessary than ever.  Continue Reading

• How can IT evaluate team collaboration apps for security compliance?

  Choosing the right team collaboration apps for your business must include looking at your organization's security and compliance needs. IT should focus on tools that meet established security standards.  Continue Reading

• How do you evaluate embedded communications use cases?

  Most embedded communications use cases focus on customer-facing interactions. Learn how to evaluate the use cases that would benefit from embedding communications.  Continue Reading

• How does cloud SIP trunking differ from traditional SIP trunking?

  Traditional and cloud SIP trunking perform the same tasks of initiating and ending call sessions, but the method and costs of access create distinct differences in these services.  Continue Reading

• How are SIP trunking vendors differentiating their services?

  SIP trunking vendors are using security features to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Our expert explains what types of SIP trunking security you can expect.  Continue Reading

• How does embedded communication work with an IP PBX infrastructure?

  Adding communications capabilities to your web browsers or mobile apps? Be sure to use the right protocols for successful interoperability with your IP PBX or telephony infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• How is CPaaS influencing UCaaS vendor portfolios?

  The customizability of CPaaS is changing how UCaaS vendors approach their platforms. Vendors are adopting more APIs to integrate CPaaS capabilities within their UCaaS platforms.  Continue Reading

• Should team collaboration apps be stand-alone or integrated?

  Team collaboration can be deployed as part of an integrated offering or as a separate app. Our expert explains why IT may not have much control over collaborative environment decisions.  Continue Reading

• How do APIs work, and how can you ensure they are secure?

  Understanding how APIs work and how they are used is essential when formulating security policies. Our expert outlines four steps to set up a first line of defense.  Continue Reading

• What role does SBC security play in VoIP protection?

  Knowing which SBC security features are essential is important to stave off potential attacks. Our expert gives insight into what features are necessary for robust protection.  Continue Reading

• How do I troubleshoot SIP configurations to solve service issues?

  When your SIP service isn't connecting properly, process of elimination will help you determine if the issue lies in your configuration or elsewhere on the network.  Continue Reading

• What potential chatbot security threats could AI introduce?

  New chatbot AI technology comes with potential security risks. UC expert Jon Arnold explains what to be aware of when deploying new AI-based voice technology.  Continue Reading

• What cloud-based unified communications certifications are available?

  The requirements for cloud-based unified communications certifications vary by industry and network environment. UC expert Carrie Higbie Goetz explains how to choose the right certifications for a UCaaS system.  Continue Reading

• SIP trunking vs. VoIP: What's the difference?

  SIP trunking and voice over IP share some similarities, but they have key differences in origin and functions. How well do you understand these telephony cornerstones?  Continue Reading

• What are the security threats when working with CPaaS vendors?

  Four security vulnerabilities should be top of mind as you move into real-time communication with APIs. Expert Tsahi Levent-Levi explains how to approach real-time communication security.  Continue Reading

• How do you monitor performance of communication APIs?

  Measuring API performance depends on whether the API is provided by a vendor or developed in-house. API expert Tsahi Levent-Levi offers steps to monitor APIs.  Continue Reading

• What are the steps to ensure SIP implementation success?

  A robust strategy and several steps are needed to deploy SIP successfully. Networking expert Carrie Higbie Goetz explains the pieces that comprise a SIP strategy, from creating an RFI to documentation.  Continue Reading

• How do Twilio Flex API-based services affect contact center software?

  Twilio Flex, a programmable contact center platform, reflects an emerging trend toward software products built on APIs, according to API expert Tsahi Levent-Levi.  Continue Reading

• What's driving the adoption of WebRTC services today?

  WebRTC adoption is influenced by the ecosystem around the technology, including browser support and commercial products. Emerging technologies could also affect future deployments.  Continue Reading

• How do enterprise collaboration services affect mobile traffic?

  The growing use of collaboration apps is putting pressure on the business mobile network. Learn how to support collaboration on both mobile and Wi-Fi networks.  Continue Reading

• How do you evaluate SIP services?

  Learn how to prepare your organization for a SIP deployment through a clearly defined evaluation of your organization's network requirements and business goals.  Continue Reading

• How are virtualization trends affecting enterprise SBCs?

  Virtualizing enterprise session border controllers can help reduce business expenses. Networking expert Carrie Higbie Goetz explains how to deploy virtual SBCs successfully.  Continue Reading

• What are some trending and emerging API use cases?

  Communication APIs offer a wide range of uses for enterprises. Discover some of the leading and emerging use cases for organizations today.  Continue Reading

• Do organizations need to manage communication APIs?

  While organizations are not heavily involved in managing APIs, they should note three important roles that emerge when deploying communication APIs across the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• How could 5G technology improve mobile UC services?

  The next generation of wireless broadband, 5G, promises faster speeds and better coverage than current wireless technology. New mobile UC features could arise from 5G technology.  Continue Reading

• How should organizations evaluate UC cloud app security providers?

  Security is a priority when moving communications to the cloud. Organizations must do their due diligence when evaluating cloud providers' UC security expertise.  Continue Reading

• Do SIP trunking services need disaster recovery planning?

  Don't forget about SIP trunking services during your disaster recovery planning process. Networking expert Michael Brandenburg explains SIP trunking setups for disaster recovery.  Continue Reading

• How do WebRTC services fit in a UC infrastructure?

  WebRTC services can supplement your UC architecture and real-time collaboration strategy. Discover the benefits of deploying WebRTC to simplify communications.  Continue Reading

• How should mobile-first apps fit in our UC strategy?

  Mobile-first collaboration is a vital part of a UC strategy. Industry expert Jon Arnold explains why organizations must prioritize mobile collaboration for their employees.  Continue Reading

• How do WebRTC, APIs and analytics affect contextual communication?

  Unified communications is seeing a trend toward contextual communication. Expert Tsahi Levent-Levi explains the influence of WebRTC, APIs and analytics on this latest movement.  Continue Reading

• How does a UC cloud-based architecture benefit from SBC services?

  A UC cloud-based architecture has similar network needs as on-premises systems. Networking expert Carrie Higbie Goetz explains why SBC services are necessary in a cloud environment.  Continue Reading

• Should we consider Metro Ethernet services to run SIP trunks?

  Organizations looking for the best way to deploy SIP trunks can look to their Carrier Ethernet. Michael Brandenburg explains the benefits of SIP Metro Ethernet services.  Continue Reading

• Is Skype for Business telephony compatible with my desk phones?

  Telephony expert Jon Arnold explains how large and small organizations can evaluate the compatibility of their desk phones with a Skype for Business telephony deployment.  Continue Reading

• How secure is open source collaboration software?

  Open source collaboration can be rife with risk. Learn about the open source security requirements to consider and who should be responsible for security and support.  Continue Reading

• How can organizations leverage WebRTC support for mobility?

  WebRTC support can help organizations push mobility initiatives beyond smartphones and tablets. Expert Tsahi Levent-Levi explains how WebRTC can make employees truly mobile.  Continue Reading

• What 'hidden' BYOD costs should organizations consider?

  While a BYOD program may, at first, seem like an easy cost-savings initiative, an organization that hasn't set usage policies and prepared its network may face unexpected costs.  Continue Reading

• How do you choose your SIP service deployment model?

  There is no one-size-fits-all approach to SIP. Networking expert Michael Brandenburg explains how to choose between a decentralized and centralized SIP trunking deployment.  Continue Reading

• Do WebRTC and SIP perform the same functions?

  While SIP and WebRTC seem to perform similar functions, WebRTC won't be replacing SIP for enterprise communication anytime soon, according to expert Tsahi Levent-Levi.  Continue Reading

• What's the best way to integrate a UC suite?

  Integrating a new unified communications suite with existing infrastructure can seem daunting. Expert Carrie Higbie offers some best practices for a smooth integration.  Continue Reading

• What BYOD security policies should be set to protect UC apps?

  BYOD security policies enterprises should consider to keep their UC apps secure.  Continue Reading

• What are the cost benefits of SIP trunking?

  Gartner analyst Sorell Slaymaker explains the cost benefits of SIP trunking for enterprises that make the migration from a legacy telephony system.  Continue Reading

• Do organizations need a BYOD reimbursement policy?

  UC expert Michael Finneran explains why organizations should consider a BYOD reimbursement policy for employee use of mobile devices.  Continue Reading

• What is Port 9875 and how is it used in a VoIP setup?

  UC expert Carrie Higbie explains the purpose of Port 9875 and why a network manager would need to direct traffic to this port in a VoIP setup.  Continue Reading

• How challenging is implementing BYOD in a UC environment?

  What are some challenges of implementing BYOD in a UC environment? UC expert Jon Arnold explains the three high-level challenges organizations face with BYOD.  Continue Reading

• What are the barriers to deploying SIP trunks?

  What are obstacles to SIP trunking? Gartner analyst Sorell Slaymaker explained at Enterprise Connect what barriers enterprises face deploying SIP trunks.  Continue Reading

• How can your infrastructure support changing UC mobility needs?

  How can you make sure your UC infrastructure can keep up with mobile device software and hardware updates? Expert Carrie Higbie explains how to prepare your network for ever-changing UC mobility needs.  Continue Reading

• Should you deploy SIP trunking or hosted telephony?

  How do you decide between SIP trunking and hosted telephony? Expert Michael Brandenburg explains how organizations can determine if SIP trunking or hosted telephony can meet their needs.  Continue Reading

• How do you deploy and secure Lync for mobile?

  How do you extend Lync to mobile devices and ensure its security? Unified messaging expert Richard Luckett explains how to make Lync mobile and secure.  Continue Reading

• How can I take advantage of SIP trunking cost savings?

  What SIP trunking cost savings are gained when migrating from the PSTN? Expert Zeus Kerravala explains why cost savings are SIP trunking's biggest benefit.  Continue Reading

• What are VoIP over Wi-Fi best practices?

  What are some best practices for running VoIP over Wi-Fi? UC expert Zeus Kerravala explains the steps enterprises can take for a smooth deployment.  Continue Reading

• What are the SIP trunking basics?

  What SIP trunking basics should you know before you deploy? SIP trunking guru Chris Partsenidis explains what you need to know about SIP trunking before deploying it in your voice system.  Continue Reading

• How do VoIP-TDM gateways differ from SBCs?

  How do VoIP-TDM gateways compare with session border controllers? How do they differ? Expert Michael Brandenburg explains how the two perform similar, but separate, functions.  Continue Reading

• Why should you enhance WebRTC security?

  If WebRTC is natively encrypted, why would anyone need to improve on WebRTC security? Expert Carrie Higbie explains why it's smart to complement WebRTC with additional security measures.  Continue Reading

• What is the function of a SIP trunking service?

  What is the function of a SIP trunking service? Expert Michael Brandenburg explains how SIP trunks support IP-based voice communications.  Continue Reading

• How to determine enterprise video conferencing network requirements

  Learn how to determine if your network can support conferencing and what video conferencing network requirements you need to meet.  Continue Reading

• How do you calculate the bandwidth of a mobile video conference system?

  Videoconferencing expert Steve Campbell explains how to measure bandwidth of a mobile video conference to size for your video system deployment.  Continue Reading

• What are unlicensed wireless point-to-point networks?

  What are private, unlicensed wireless point-to-point networks? UC strategies expert Matt Brunk explains how enterprises can use them to mobilize UC.  Continue Reading

• What is a UC client?

  What do vendors mean when they refer to a UC client? Learn what a UC client is and how it is used.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between a SIP-flood attack and a TDoS attack?

  While SIP-flood attacks and TDoS attacks have similar goals, their attack vectors are very different. Industry expert Michael Brandenburg explains.  Continue Reading

• What are the advantages of SIP trunks versus analog circuits?

  SIP trunking is not perfect, but it has more options and features compared to what traditional phone companies offer, says UC expert Matt Brunk.  Continue Reading

• What is a call park phone feature and how does it work?

  UC expert, Matt Brunk, explains a call park phone feature, how it works and how it compares to a visual call park feature in this expert response.  Continue Reading

• Why is SIP trunking better than PRI and BRI?

  SIP trunking is preferable over PRI and BRI based on flexibility and cost benefits, says telephony expert Matt Brunk.  Continue Reading

• Can keeping traffic on separate VLANs counter VoIP security risks?

  Although keeping data and VoIP traffic on separate VLANs can counter VoIP security risks, it can be a tough sell, says VoIP expert Matt Brunk.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between E&M and junction lines, and do you have any advice on how to check fa

  Learn about E&M lines and how to check faults in them.  Continue Reading

• How can MPLS help in VoIP implementation between a parent company and its branch offices?

  Find out how MPLS helps in VoIP implementation between a parent company and its branch offices.  Continue Reading

• What is the relationship between SIP and unified communications?

  Learn about the relationship between Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and unified communications (UC) in this expert response from Paul McMillan.  Continue Reading

• Is there a difference between VoIP and IP telephony?

  VoIP and IP telephony are two terms used sometimes interchangeably -- but are they really the same thing?  Continue Reading

• Push-to-talk implementation using SIP protocol

  How can you implement push-to-talk using SIP protocol without using a push-to-talk server? Read Carrie Higbie's suggestions for our readers in this expert response.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between B2BUA and proxy in SIP protocol?

  Find out the differences between a B2BUA like Asterisk, and a proxy when installed in a SIP protocol.  Continue Reading

• Why is UDP used more in VoIP than TCP?

  If UDP is unreliable, why is it used more in VoIP rather than TCP?  Continue Reading

• Does Spanning Tree Protocol have an adverse effect on VoIP?

  Do you know if Spanning Tree has an adverse effect upon VoIP? If so, what is the best way to provide LAN-based switch redundancy to VoIP gateways?  Continue Reading

• How to set up a simple VoIP network on an existing LAN

  Setting up a VoIP network on an existing LAN requires some IP PBX familiarity. Learn how to implement your new VoIP network with this expert response.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between a SIP-enabled phone and an IP phone that is not SIP-enabled?

  Learn about the differences in programming a SIP-enabled phone versus a phone that is not SIP enabled, and the costs and benefits of each.  Continue Reading

• What kind of compression is used in VoIP?

  Our voice expert explains what kind of compression is used in VoIP, in this expert response.  Continue Reading

• How does an ATA work?

  How does an ATA work?  Continue Reading

• Codecs demystified

  Learn more about the codec used by Skype and how it differs from other codecs in this expert answer. Patrick Ferriter explains Skype protocol, Global IP Sound, iLBC codec, GIPS, iSAC codec and SIP protocols here.  Continue Reading

• Music on-hold (MoH) in the SIP world

  Find out more about music on-hold (MoH) capabilities and SIP enabled audio streams in this expert answer.  Continue Reading

• What is tromboning?

  In this expert reply, Patrick Ferriter explains what tromboning means in VoIP.  Continue Reading

• Difference between gateway and router

  Learn the difference between a gateway and a router in this Ask the Expert response.  Continue Reading

• What exactly is SIP and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

  Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of choosing SIP over H.323 or another VoIP traffic carrier.  Continue Reading

• VoIP gateways and SS7

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• What is the difference between H.248 and H.323? And what are the differences between ATM and FR tech

  Learn the difference between H.248 and H.323 and also what the differences are between ATM and frame relay (FR) technology.  Continue Reading