Choosing the best SIP trunking service to meet your company objectives may be a challenging task. If you have spent any time researching telecommunications services, you will know that this sector is complex, tough to navigate and offers a myriad of solutions to choose from.
SIP trunking services vary in terms of the types, quality and scope of services provided, as well as in terms of pricing and customer service. Selecting a solution can be difficult, but if you focus on what matters most, such as service quality, compatibility, security and scalability, you will be more likely to make a favorable choice.
Continue reading the full article to better understand what to look for when choosing the ideal service for you. We break down some major elements of what to look for when selecting a SIP trunking provider.
What is SIP Trunking?
SIP eliminates the need for traditional telephone lines and PRIs by utilizing both Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to streamline your digital communications.
SIP trunking is one of the most effective alternatives to traditional phone services. In short, it is a technology that lets you make low-cost international calls utilizing your Internet connection.
Interested in learning more about SIP trunking? In our article “What is SIP Trunking?” you will find out what it is, how it works, its benefits and more.
What to consider when choosing a SIP Trunking provider?
Quality
The added advantages of SIP trunking are rendered ineffective unless high-quality communications are enabled. SIP trunk providers must ensure that customers can make and receive clear phone calls in an efficient manner. Avoid carriers that utilize least-cost routing (LCR), which lowers quality while optimizing on cost. In addition, search for a SIP trunk provider with several points of presence (PoPs) throughout the world to ensure minimal latency and great call clarity.
Coverage
Look for a service that can handle outbound calls internationally while also providing local numbers in different locations to handle inbound calls. A good SIP trunking provider includes local, national, toll-free and mobile numbers, allowing businesses to choose their preferred inbound area codes for improved consumer convenience. Most providers can also assist in the porting of existing phone numbers to their telephony infrastructure, ensuring that your business is not disrupted during the transition.
Cost
Long-distance calls, especially international calls, are generally less expensive when using SIP trunks. SIP trunking is typically charged per user, per minute, or as part of a larger service cost. Many SIP providers also have their own global networks that use local PSTN carriers, which can result in cost savings owing to economies of scale. Varying SIP trunk providers have different prices and pricing strategies, so shop around for the best deal based on the type of service your company requires.
Interoperability
If your company currently has a phone system, you will want a supplier who can provide compatibility with your current setup. Interoperability with common softswitches and IP PBXs should be offered by any reputable SIP trunk provider.
Flexibility
SIP trunk suppliers deliver varying degrees of flexibility in their solutions. They offer options for changing phone numbers, adjusting services, adding IP access control lists and configuring softphone compatibility. Some companies also provide flexible contracts, allowing services to be adjusted as required rather than being tied to unfavorable conditions.
Scalability
SIP Trunks provide total scaling freedom. Adding or subtracting lines on a SIP trunk may usually be done via a self-service portal, allowing for quick and easy changes with no service impact or delay. However, SIP trunk providers differ in how they grow with your company. When adding connections in multiple locations throughout the world, look for a provider that can match your demands while remaining within your budget.
Reliability
SIP trunking service providers must prioritize uninterrupted service quality. If calls are not reliably routed, SIP trunking loses utility. To guarantee dependability and that calls do not drop in the middle of a conversation, look for providers with redundant infrastructure and multiple carrier connections across regions. Select a carrier that has backup lines in place in the case of Internet failures, ensuring that calls are available at near-100 percent of the time.
Security
Security should always be a primary consideration for any organization migrating to a SIP provider or supporting any of their business communications in the Cloud. Therefore, it is imperative that the service provider you select should follow security and privacy best practices. Evaluate how various SIP trunk providers safeguard your network against call interception. Consider a managed service that encrypts SIP communication using the Secure Real-Time Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) to fulfill privacy standards.
Compliance
Every country has its own cloud communication standards, laws, norms and restrictions, and many SIP trunk providers find it difficult to acquire access to numbers and services in certain locations. We propose that you choose a supplier that prioritizes compliance or you may risk losing call connectivity.
Support
Investigate a provider’s level of experience and availability of customer support before making a decision. A provider with a good reputation for exceptional customer service will respond quickly and guarantee that you receive the finest possible service. Whether you are a small business with a few SIP trunk channels or a large communications provider with SIP trunks in many locations, the supplier should be able to assist you whenever you require.
Conclusion
It is simple to see the advantages of using SIP trunks to modernize your communications; just make sure you choose the right SIP partner with a diverse set of capabilities and a solid reputation to make the transition as painless as possible. By taking into account the aforementioned aspects, your company should be able to identify the best SIP trunk supplier for its needs, allowing you to reap the full benefits of this technology.