With the increasing use of IPTV (video streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, etc..) and downloading (torrents, newsgroups, etc...) as well as regular internet surfing... VoIP services are often impacted, due to internet quality. VoIP services are not forgiving when it comes to available Internet bandwidth. When there is not enough bandwidth, or drops / loss, VoIP services simply do not work properly.
Below are a few top suggestions to ensure your VoIP experience is a great one
(if your VoIP services are working correctly today, we do not recommend making any changes):
- Enable QoS (Quality of Service) on your router. **
A minimum of 160 Kbps is suggested for VoIP service (G.711 / uLaw)
This will ensure a guaranteed amount of internet bandwidth is always available for your phone (ATA device).
Having QoS enabled is especially important if you use streaming services (IPTV) like Netflix, or download large files (ie: Torrents or newsgroups).
- Disable SIP ALG **
The intended purpose of a SIP ALG is to assist SIP phones located behind NAT devices (routers/firewalls).
Frequently, poor implementations of SIP ALG create issues including one-way audio, dropped calls, run-away calls, and fax failures.
If you are experiencing issues registering your device, or if your device becomes unregistered often, we recommend that you disable your router's SIP ALG option (consult your router manual for details on this setting).
- Check all your cables.
Loose cables can also have the effect of poor internet quality.
Be sure you are using supplied or quality cables and they are all snug in their sockets.
- Reboot your router, then your ATA device.
Your internet router and ATA devices are (basically) small computers, that from time to time may require a reboot*. In the event there is a hardware or software issue, rebooting the devices will most often clear the issue.
Reboot your internet router first. Then, once your router and internet are back online, reboot your ATA device.
* To reboot, simply unplug the device, wait 15 seconds, then reconnect. * Do not press the reset button (unless instructed to by a technician). Pressing the reset button will erase the device settings.
- Use a surge protector.
The use of a surge protector can not be more highly recommended. Many electronic devices are damaged due to small power surges. ATA device disconnection, quality and/or total damage can be caused by even small power spikes. Your internet router and ATA devices should be protected with a surge protector
** Enabling QoS and Disabling ALG are top recommendations and are the cause of most connection and quality issues.
Article ID: 49, Created: 8/4/2014 at 7:43 AM, Modified: 5/31/2017 at 10:38 AM