SIP devices are phones which use Internet Protocol (IP) telephony. Unlike with a standard phone, your calls are not transmitted using traditional phone lines. IP telephony uses your internet network instead, allowing you to enjoy various benefits!
SIP or free phones are different from IP phones, because you can connect them directly to your Internet router or to your PBX telephone system, regardless of their brand. This gives you the advantage of not having to buy a telephone from the same brand as your switchboard. Although it is similar to a conventional telephone set, this type of phone has additional functions in comparison with an analogue phone.
To use a SIP phone, you will require:
• A SIP line, which you have connected to a provider
• An internet connection, which is preferably high-speed
There are many benefits to SIP calls, such as:
• Saving money: phone calls made through the internet are far cheaper than conventional telephone calls, particularly in the case of international calls. Why is this? This is because, when you are using the internet, there is no longer any need for an agreement between different national phone service providers, which is what causes prices to increase. Another major benefit for consumers is that you can enjoy completely free and unlimited calls between SIP users, wherever you are in the world! This makes SIP telephones an ideal option for businesses which have offices abroad.
• Enjoying multiple simultaneous calls: with a SIP phone, you can have as many simultaneous calls as your internet connection will allow.
• Easy installation: with a SIP device, you only need an internet connection, so you do not need to spend extra money installing telephone lines. Your phone will easily connect to the network, using either an Ethernet cable or using WiFi.
• PoE (Power over Ethernet): you will no longer need to be connected to a power outlet as your phone will be powered by the Ethernet network cable. This reduces the number of cables you will need and means that you will no longer need to add extra power outlets.
• Multiple SIP accounts: depending on the model you choose, you can have several SIP accounts. This refers to the maximum number of SIP lines you can have, and should not be confused with the number of calls you can have at the same time.
• Programmable shortcut keys: you can store your most frequently contacted numbers using the shortcut keys. You will no longer need to dial the number in full, you will simply have to press the shortcut key to start the call! On some models, you can even add expansion modules to increase the number of programmable keys.
• Hands-free functionality: SIP phones have an integrated microphone and speaker, so you can share the conversation audio with colleagues around you. Everyone will be able to hear the caller and will be able to participate in the conversation.
• Headphone jack: having a headphone jack will allow you to connect a telephone headset easily, which is perfect if you are used to making calls throughout the day. A headset is an ideal tool when you are working in noisy environments as it isolates you from any background noise and allows you to hear your caller more clearly than when you are just using a telephone handset. You can even connect a wireless headset and enjoy increased mobility when taking calls: you can move up to 180 metres away from your SIP telephone and you can remotely manage your calls!