With a hosted phone system, calls travel over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. An additional service is required when a hosted phone user needs to make a call to a phone that’s connected to a traditional phone network instead of the internet. This is where SIP trunking comes in. 

Before your eyes glaze over and you think this article doesn’t apply to you, let’s review what SIP is. 

What is SIP?

Put simply, SIP trunking is an internet-based replacement for traditional phone service. 

If you’ve ever set up an email app or service provider, you’re probably familiar with “SMTP” – the standard protocol which allows two email servers to exchange email data.

SIP, which stands for Session Initiation Protocol, is the same idea, but for IP (Internet Protocol) systems. It is the accepted fixed procedure for establishing, conducting and ending a phone call between two IP (or “hosted”) phones. 

An SIP trunking service provider connects calls made between your hosted phone system and the traditional phone network by recoding the SIP calls.

Why Should I Use a SIP Trunking Service Provider?

SIP trunking saves you money.  A report from 2014 shows that businesses save up to 50% by using a SIP trunking service.

Pay only for what you need: Instead of having to pay for multiple phone lines (as with a traditional phone system), a SIP service price plan is based on the number of calls your business typically makes and receives at the same time, regardless of the number of lines you use.

Free long-distance calling: Because calls are made over the internet, long-distance calls are included with your SIP service plan.

Included enterprise features: Real-time call history reporting, 24/7 support, Auto Attendant, and call recording are just a few of the features that can be included with your SIP trunking service. 

How Do I Choose the Right SIP Provider?

There are several important factors to consider when choosing your SIP provider. 

Quality

SIP services share internet protocol networks, so it’s important to find a provider that offers reliability. Low-quality service will result in spotty communication. 

Compatibility

Handsets, softphones, and other hardware used in unified communications can be purchased from so many sources today. If you already have the hardware, make sure your SIP provider can support it.

Security

Internet security is constantly changing. Threats and attacks to your communications system can seriously impact your business. Choose a SIP provider that follows fundamental security principles and uses a secure network.

Scalability

If you plan to grow your business, you need a SIP provider that can support your expanding network. As the number of calls to and from your business increases, and as your business reach spreads geographically, your communications system needs to accommodate those changes without a disruption of service.

Is SelectCom the SIP Provider for You?

SelectCom offers various affordable price plans for SIP trunking, including valuable add-ons. To find out more about SelectCom and our SIP service, contact us today.