“Is my network ready for VoIP?” This is one of the most important questions to address before moving to VoIP service or a cloud-based phone system.  Since VoIP calls are run over the public internet, VoIP calling services and cloud phone system technology are heavily reliant on network stability and quality bandwidth.  Performing a network assessment prior to installing a VoIP PBX system solution is the best way to avoid potential call quality issues.

5 Steps to Beef up Your Network to Prepare for Business VoIP Service:

1. Run Cat5e or higher cables and separate Voice from Data.  You may be able to get by with Cat5 cables, but our VoIP engineers recommend Cat5e or Cat6 as well as separate cables for voice and data to achieve optimal performance.
2. Run internet speed tests during heavy internet usage.  Though you may pay for 50 up/50 down bandwidth, you probably aren’t getting those speeds.  Test your internet speeds throughout the day and take into account the number of cellular devices, laptops/computers, and ‘virutal’ machines like ATA adapters that are on your network at any given time.  Present your speed results and device quantity assessment to your VoIP provider for a bandwidth package recommendation. 
3. Install a Firewall and confirm all devices are free of viruses and malware.  Viruses, malware, trojans and the like will wreck havoc on your network and directly impact your VoIP call quality and cloud phone system. 
4. Add a QoS Security Router.  Quality of Service (QoS) routers prioritize voice traffic over data, so voice always gets preference, thus providing a higher quality of service.
5. Install an MPLS solution.  For larger companies, an MPLS solution is highly recommended to provide secure, reliable bandwidth and connectivity to your service provider.

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ACC Telecom is a certified VoIP service provider in Maryland and serves businesses throughout MD, Washington DC, and Northern VA.  With over 75 years of combined telecommunications support, ACC is guaranteed to be your best choice for VoIP support and questions.  Contact ACC Telecom for your free consultation on cloud phone systems and VoIP phone service (SIP Trunks).  ACC Telecom provides professional network assessments by appointment only.