VoIP another revolution in ICT
By Albert Chinamano
Last week we introduced the concept of Info-Communications
Technology and how it has brought computing, networking and
telecommunications to become one. One of those technologies
that have been brought by ICT is Voice over Internet Protocol.
VoIP (voice over IP- that is, voice delivered using the Internet
Protocol) is a term used in IP Telephony for a set of facilities
for managing the delivery of voice information using the Internet
Protocol (IP). In general, this means sending voice information
in digital form in discrete packets rather than in the traditional
circuit-committed protocols of the public switched telephone
network (PTSN).
Historically, telephone calls were made through (PSTN), which
provided high-quality voice transmission between two or more
parties. However, since the demand for data traffic is growing
faster than voice traffic, we’ve seen a gradual shift
towards packet-based networks like IP, ATM and Frame Relay.
Packet-based networking provides high cost-benefit ratio,
and an increasing number of businesses are realizing the value
of transporting their voice circuits over IP networks to reduce
expenses. Saving, coupled with exceptional Quality of Service,
are synonymous with Voice over IP (VoIP).
Over the past years organizations were concentrating on investing
in both voice and data infrastructure. That has since ceased,
as one can now access the whole world using a handset, and
or the computer over the same media channel. VoIP is a concept
where one can make calls and receive faxes using the same
infrastructure. This means one can connect departments, buildings,
branch offices and telecommuters by voice over the same wire
and through the same channel that is being used for data connection.
But what does one need to have for VoIP connection to happen.
No expensive equipment is required- just a standard IP connection
like a DSL or modem and the handset that is being used in
the offices. The solution is simple; you just need to have
the infrastructure you have for broadband services needs being
used for data connection.
Why VoIP? It cannot be overstated that VoIP is one of the
fastest growing technology businesses today. The solution
offers local and long distance service that integrates seamlessly
with the public switched telephone network. This allows offices
to get voice and data service from one broadband IP provider
that means organizations can reduce monthly phone bills by
eliminating access to the local phone operator. Businesses
and consumers are experiencing a greater need to communicate
and a greater desire to economize.
Other Benefits:
- Regulatory arbitrage - decrease release on regulated or
monopoly carriers
- Low marginal cost of voice over pre-existing data network:
voice "rides for free"
- Manage one infrastructure instead of two
- Fewer network components
- Self-provisioning of voice services using web interfaces.
- Forces voice and data staff to work together
This is one way organizations can save their hard earned
cash, and I guess a number of them here in Zimbabwe are already
using the technology. It’s all about adapting to the
technology trends. Is our infrastructure ready to offer VoIP?
The infrastructure is very conducive, and some of the organizations
are already using the technology. Anyway its not about technology,
its about people, and now is the time to connect them. Everyone
everywhere should be networked and enjoy access to the world
by the pressing of key on the PC or phone. Next week we will
look at what IT people need to look at when signing service
level agreements (SLA). For further comments contact chinamanoa@afri-com.com
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