Improving Your Network to Optimize HD Voice
A well-planned, organized office computer network (or LAN) is foundational for high performing, secure business communications. In addition, VoIP traffic on your office computer network is much more sensitive to delay, latency, jitter, and packet loss than typical data applications. Simply put, following some simple guidelines will help you have a good performing network and lessen audio loss and choppiness on your phone.
- Recommended network setup for VoIP with a QoS router
- Recommended network setup for VoIP with Clarity’s Watchdog firewall
Install a “single-port, stand-alone” modem for your cable or DSL internet service
A modem works better for high-volume business applications like VoIP rather than a router/business gateway. Unless requested, most cable and DSL Internet providers will install a router/business gateway. Often, when a modem is asked for, the technicians think you don’t understand the difference and will install a router/business gateway regardless. Sometimes by saying “single-port” or “stand-alone” modem, the technicians will better understand that you know what you’re asking for and will install the correct device.
Why does Clarity recommend a modem instead of a router/business gateway? In short, it’s capacity. Modems are designed to do one thing, while routers/business gateways do many things. With VoIP, the routers/business gateways supplied by the cable and DSL companies aren’t powerful enough to meet the Internet traffic demand and start losing information. You can then experience long periods of silence, which turns into dropped phone calls.
Recommended Modem: ArrisSurfboard SB6190
If you have a fiber connection, be sure to have the installer run an Ethernet cable into your office, rather than a coaxial cable, from the Optical Network Terminal (ONT). The Ethernet cable will plug directly into your QoS router.
Install a Quality of Service (QoS) router
While your VoIP service will work without using a QoS router, your voice quality may be choppy and there may be periods of quiet in a conversation. Routers with QoS (“Quality of Service”) are designed specifically for use on our services. The QoS helps maintain a higher quality, consistent voice connection by acting as an “internet traffic cop” by giving telephone conversations priority over email and other internet usage.
Clarity’s Watchdog is a firewall with QoE (Quality of Experience). Our Watchdog Service™ ensures all your internet connected devices operate at top performance with added protection from outside threats. Clarity’s Watchdog Service™ isn’t just powerful, it’s designed with real business in mind. With so much on the line, you can trust that our technically certified Watchdogs never take your business safety and performance lightly. We understand that each industry has its own set of requirements and risks. That’s why we offer a tailored service to ensure your business is protected from today’s predators and load balanced for top performance. The watchdog device must be remotely installed by our dedicated installation team. They will schedule a time with you, to program the device into your network.
Additional routers with Quality of Service (QoS), recommended by Clarity: