10.11.2023
How VoIP telephony differs from SIP
In today's world of communications, the proper choice of voice channel plays a crucial role in the effective functioning of a business. Modern technologies allow to transmission of voice data over Internet Protocol (IP), which reduces telephony costs and improves sound quality.
Two major protocols — SIP calls vs VoIP — offer entrepreneurs an alternative. In this article, let's look at what the difference between SIP and VoIP is and how to determine the best channel for your business.
What is SIP calling and VoIP?
SIP and VoIP are two different concepts that refer to voice-over IP.
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is a protocol used for handling multimedia communication sessions such as voice and video calls, conferences, chats, etc. SIP is used to manage, set up, and terminate sessions.
SIP does not transmit multimedia information itself, but only manages its flow. It uses other protocols such as RTP (Real-time Transport Protocol) or SRTP (Secure Real-time Transport Protocol) to transmit voice data.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a generic name for technologies that allow voice data to be transmitted over IP networks. VoIP is more of a set of standards and specifications that define how voice communication over IP should occur.
SIP is the protocol that implements VoIP. Daily speech often uses the term VoIP to refer to specific voice-over IP solutions that are different from SIP. For example, Skype, Viber, and WhatsApp are examples of VoIP services that use their proprietary protocols for voice-over IP.
Difference between SIP and VoIP
SIP calls and VoIP have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the technologies depends on your needs and capabilities.
Criteria | SIP protocol | VoIP protocol |
Main function | Session establishment protocol | Voice data transmission technology |
Equipment requirements | Subscriber device (SIP phone, IP-PBX) | Subscriber device (VoIP phone, IP-PBX) |
Availability | Available free of charge | Available free of charge |
Sound quality | High | High |
Mobile calls | Not possible | Possible |
International calls | Available | Available |
Additional features | Minor | Wide range of features (e.g. call recording, call forwarding, answering machine) |
Choosing the right voice protocol
For business, VoIP technology is preferable. It provides better audio quality as well as access to a wide range of additional features. In addition, VoIP calls are available from mobile devices as well as regular phones.
If you make a lot of international or inter-network calls, VoIP usually provides free or low rates.
Decision Telecom offers simple and affordable voice-calling solutions for businesses around the world. To start your free trial of the platform, sign up now.
