When making calls over the internet through VoIP services, or with other digalized networks, the voice must be encoded into digital data packets. These digital data packets are then compressed so that transmissions are faster and are able to travel everywhere, making calling experiences much better than that of a traditional line. 

VoIP Codecs Explained

A VoIP codec is a type of technology that determines audio qualities, bandwidth, and compression of all phone calls. The word itself is a combination of two words, compression, and decompression, which has a lot to do with the definition of this word. There are many different codecs for different types of audio, video, and fax transmissions, but some are more common than others. Looking into the different types of codecs that play into VoIP services is important before making a decision for VoIP providers. 

Codecs are the reason why videos are downloaded in minutes, or audio calls can be made seamlessly. In the case of VoIP codecs, it converts all the analog data signals into voice packets, easily sent anywhere in the world. The better the codecs, the better the voice quality. Of course, some problems may occur with the codecs when transferring over the internet, but most of the time this is a non-issue due to the updated technology.

The 3 Common VoIP Codecs

1. G.711- This codec is the one that deals with all precise speech transmissions at the lowest processor requirements. In order to utilize this codec you will need at least 128 kbps because it is one of the oldest around. Just because of this, it also works best with the highest levels of bandwidth, making it a bit more obsolete for the improved internet systems.
2. G.722- Best fit for high compression ratios, this codec can be used with many free hardware and system downloads. This encoding is used for GSM smartphones and offers a MOS of 3.7 which is quite good. As a high definition codec, it’s also wideband and ITU approved, making it the needed codec for speech quality and latency.
3. G.729- This codec is perfect for bandwidth utilization, is error-tolerant, and highly improved. The only downside of this codec is that it’s not free, because of the fact that it’s licensed. Users will indirectly pay for this license when purchasing VoIP software but will be well worth it.

Audio Codecs

Within a VoIP system, there are different types of codecs offered. Audio codecs are most important for compressing voice transactions into digitally encoded forms and then used to transfer to the other end of each line. Once this digital transmission makes it to the other end of the line, it is then compressed back into a voice transmission. This whole process happens thanks to codecs.

1. Wideband Audio Codecs- This type of audio-specific codec will make use of the greater frequency range of the audio spectrum when compared to other forms of audio codecs. There are many different ways that this type of codec will help audio transmissions, but the most common is by transferring said audio transmissions at different qualities. By doing so, the transfer rates are smaller.

VoIP Codecs

Clearly, all VoIP technology has the potential to total revolutionize the way that people can commute. Whether that be from home to work, work to work, or internationally to locally, VoIP can handle it all. The power that these networks hold is incredible, and because they are so efficient and versatile, businesses flock to them. With the flexibility, positives they offer, and all added features, VoIP networks are the choice of the future for large and small businesses.