How This Topic Is Organized (VoIP Deployment)

The topic is structured as a progression from general to specific VoIP information. It is layed out in the same logical manner you’d go about researching VoIP during a deployment on your network. The initial topics cover the rudimentary structure of VoIP and provide an overview of the supporting structures of VoIP. More detailed information is then provided as the key elements of network assessment are covered, allowing you to qualify your LAN before and during deployment. The progression follows through to a section on management of the VoIP LAN you’ve deployed, covering troubleshooting and maintenance before handing you the pearls of wisdom in the Part of Tens.

Part I: VoIP Essentials

The basic structure of VoIP is revealed in this section of the topic. It provides an overview of VoIP in general terms and addresses some of the facts and fallacies associated with the technology. All of the basics of VoIP are explored, from the hardware required to the protocol options available. A detailed view of SIP is provided as well as SDP, RTP, and the dial plan that makes up all of the call routing and handling within your VoIP phone system.

Part II: Assessing Your Network’s VoIP Readiness

This is the working information necessary to determine if your LAN is prepared for VoIP deployment. Latency, jitter, and packet loss are covered in depth, as is LAN design and configuration. The standard business aspects of VoIP telephony that are frequently ignored are also covered, devoting time to the handling and options for fax transmissions and DTMF tones. Finally I cover all of the configuration settings and information your carrier may need to know when you order VoIP to ensure a smooth deployment.


Part III: Maintaining Your Network and Service

This section covers all aspects of troubleshooting, providing step-by-step information on how to troubleshoot specific issues. Various call types are dissected, with the individual variables and responsible companies identified. Troubleshooting logic is presented to help identify issues by narrowing down the scope of the problem, and the diplomacy of troubleshooting is also presented.

Part IV: The Part of Tens

I have placed all of the pearls of wisdom I have in this section. I address the general misperceptions of VoIP, where they came from and why they aren’t (or are) true. All of the things that make VoIP great come next, followed by ten things to avoid. Many of them can cost you money, or land you in jail, so it’s a good section to read. Finally the topic is wrapped up with ten places to go for help when you feel you have nowhere else to turn.

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