When seeking support for simple issues, no one likes to wait to speak with agents for long periods of time. From the automated messaging systems to sudden disconnections, this isn’t something that is typically looked forward to. With all the issues that can arise when dealing with technology, it’s helpful to know the basic steps taken when dealing with a VoIP system. Even before having to reach out to a representative, knowing how to combat simple issues might be you and your VoIP systems saving grace.
The Most Common VoIP Troubleshooting Issues
From networking issues or dropped calls, VoIP systems can face a number of difficulties in its day to day uses. By following some simple steps for dealing with certain VoIP issues, might help, not only your stress levels but your system overall.
- Networking and LAN Issues- If you realize that your system isn’t able to make calls, receive one way audio, has bandwidth or router issues, and even is experiencing choppy voice transmissions, then you may be dealing with networking or LAN issues. These issues most likely involve problems between computers and the equipment that connects them to the internet. This sometimes is as simple as a router issue, and in most cases this type of issue arises because the router is overworked or outdated. To get your system back up and running, there are four steps that need to be followed. First, reset your entire router and check the wiring on your computers. Ensure that your router is then configured for all VoIP prioritization, and try to port forward. Finally, if this doesn’t work, you might need to upgrade your router. If this seems to be the only way to fix this first issue, then looking for a dual-band router, which is capable of transmission of different frequencies will be your best bet.
- WAN and Internet Connectivity- Another set of issues such as voice delays, speed issues, busy signals and choppy voice transmissions, are due to WAN or internet connection issues. Sometimes, the internet provider is at fault, but checking for this first is important. In order to check internet connectivity, you can run a bandwidth speed test. This will check for packet loss and digital transmission speeds. If the problem lies in your internet connection, contacting the service provider will fix this issue quickly. Maybe your provider will tell you that speeds are low due to outages, or that connectivity is weak due to the package you have chosen. Whatever the provider says, will give you a clear answer as to why your VoIP system is experiencing issues.
- Security- Because VoIP systems are solely connected to the internet, your business might be susceptible to virtual attackers and cybersecurity threats. Security issues will not only affect your call quality but can also ruin your business. If you simply suspect that you’re dealing with security issues, you should look into correcting them as quickly as humanly possible. The first thing you can do is reset all passwords. By using strong passwords that contain all that’s asked, might make it a bit harder for hackers to get into your system. By adding encryptions to these updated passwords will ensure that all is protected. Next, you can set security layers and firewalls. Firewalls can help by limiting the type of traffic that is allowed on your system’s network. Some VoIP routers have this capability naturally, so contacting your provider to check on this feature is smart as well.
- Faxing Issues and Other Devices- In this digital day and age, businesses are relying more and more on digital transmissions over the old technologies such as faxes, printers, and scanners. If your company solely relies on these older ways to transfer information, then there are two things you can do. First, installing compatible software on your VoIP system in order to handle such functions will be your best bet. This way, you wont need to get rid of or purchase any added equipment, and can be done as simply as downloading software or an application. If this doesn’t work in the way that you want it to, investing in equipment that can be integrated into your system will be your next bet.
- Phone and Voice Quality- If you are hearing echoing, bad auto transmissions, buzzing, and delays, then the quality of your system might be taking a hit. If you believe that all your networking equipment is working correctly, then you need to look into what other services are functioning properly and causing these issues.
- Cover your phone’s mouthpiece and see if the echo or buzzing stops. If it does, then you may just need to turn down the volume of your earpiece or speakers.
- Keeping your router away from the computer monitor might also help. Investing in a powerstrip might be beneficial because sometimes buzzing will occur if these two devices are placed close to one another.
- Bypassing any splitters or caller ID devices might eliminate this problem as well. This means that taking out all third party or additional equipment might help. By plugging devices right into one another, will allow you to test if your main equipment is functioning properly or not. If it does fix the issue, the additional technology used to connect the two might be faulty.
- Inspecting all wires also is imperative when checking for quality. Ensuring that all wires and cables and dry, new and untangled will be helpful for resolving voice quality issues.
- Checking for old equipment is crucial for the life of your system. Old equipment can sometimes result in poor voice quality, and by upgrading, this issue may go away.
Coming to Terms With VoIP Troubleshooting Issues
No matter what issues arise when utilizing your VoIP system, you will be better equipped to handle it. If the problems you are faced with are bigger than what was listed above, contacting your provider is key. When making the decision to choose a provider, your business must have chosen one that ensures excellent customer service, and with this, all problems will be taken care of in a professional and timely manner. With a knowledgeable company in hand, your system will be back up and running shortly.