When your small business is growing, you might switch to VoIP services to help improve customer service and enhance call quality as well. However, there is one symptom of an unstable Internet connection you might not immediately think about, and it is known as VoIP jitter.

The VoIP Difference

Choosing VoIP for your small business phone system will allow you to save more money than you might expect. That said, to fully experience the VoIP difference, you will need the fastest, smoothest Internet connection you can get. VoIP transmits voice calls in data packets through this connection. Any interruptions to the network connection can lead to VoIP jitter.

 

What Is VoIP Jitter?

Data and voice packets are not always sent in the same order as the spoken conversation happens. Unfortunately, this fact means that sometimes the packets are transmitted out of order, causing much confusion. VoIP jitter can also cause some packets not to be sent, leaving out critical information. Jitter is measured in milliseconds and delays greater than 40-50 milliseconds will decrease your call quality.

Some possible causes to consider include insufficient bandwidth, ineffective or slow WiFi connections, and aging hardware devices, such as modems, cables, and routers.

 

How Do You Stop It?

When you encounter VoIP jitter, you might not know what you can do to prevent it from interfering with your phone calls going forward.

Upgrade Your Internet: Business-class Internet is going to be faster and more reliable, generally speaking, than the connection you would expect to see serving a residence. If you are experiencing problems with VoIP jitter, then it might be a sign you need to upgrade your current Internet connection to make it more stable, transfer data more quickly, and improve recovery after any incidents that might cause a slowdown.

Install a Buffer: Jitter buffers can be installed in endpoints and desk phones. The buffers will ensure that data packets are sent in the correct order, meaning they are on time and in the right sequence – stopping jitter before it can even start.

Improve Your Hardware: Along with software upgrades and Internet connection upgrades, you may need to improve your hardware. Outdated computer systems, modems, and routers must be replaced with newer models.  A QoS (Quality of Service) router is recommended for VoIP deployment because it prioritizes voice traffic over data traffic, thus helping prevent VoIP jitter.

Install Firewall & Antivirus Software: Malware, Adware, Torrents, Spyware, Trojans, and any other malicious programs or viruses introduced through computers or network insecurity will impact your VoIP service and cause issues such as VoIP jitter.  Malicious software, viruses, malware, etc. all interrupt the transmission of VoIP communications by bogging down the network. Installing firewall and antivirus computer software will not only aid in eliminating VoIP jitter, but will also secure your organization as a whole against hacking attacks.

 

Resolve VoIP Jitter Issues ACC Telecom

ACC Telecom provides voice communication and cloud-based solutions tailored to the needs of your business. We boast over 45 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and pride ourselves on offering customers in Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia top-notch service and affordable prices. If you would like to get a quote or learn more about how we can help your business thrive, then give us a call at 410-995-0101 or visit us at acctelecom.com.