VPNs for VoIP: A simple fix for unreliable or blocked internet calls
Dropped calls, blocked apps, or sluggish audio can make any Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) conversation frustrating. These issues often come from network restrictions or internet providers that slow down call traffic. Fortunately, combining VoIP with a virtual private network (VPN) is a simple, effective fix that can help you get around those limits, all while improving privacy. Why do VoIP calls get blocked or throttled? VoIP apps send your voice and video data through the internet, but not all networks treat that data equally. Public Wi-Fi networks in places like hotels, cafes, or airports are often poorly secured, which can expose your call activity to others. Some organizations, including schools and certain types of businesses, intentionally block VoIP traffic to control bandwidth usage. In some parts of the world, even national internet providers restrict access to calling apps entirely. Even when there are no outright blocks, some internet service providers slow down or deprioritize certain types of traffic, including VoIP, during peak hours. This practice is known as throttling, which can result in laggy conversations or poor audio quality. How a VPN enhances VoIP calls A VPN encrypts your internet connection and redirects it through a server located elsewhere. So, when you connect through a VPN, your traffic is shielded from view, and your device appears to be browsing from a different region. For VoIP users, this creates several advantages. First, it helps bypass local restrictions by making it appear as though you’re connecting from a place where the app is allowed. This is especially helpful when traveling or working in regions with strict internet censorship. Second, it adds a layer of privacy. Even if your calling app already encrypts the conversation itself, your network provider can still see which app you’re using, who you’re calling, and when. A VPN masks this metadata, making it harder for others to track or interfere with your communication. Finally, a VPN can reduce issues with throttling. Since your traffic is encrypted, your internet provider can’t easily detect that you’re using VoIP, which makes it less likely they’ll slow down your call connection. What to look for in a VPN for VoIP Not all VPNs are built to handle voice and video communication effectively. If you’re in the market for one, be sure to prioritize these essential features: Speed and stability: For smooth calls, you need a fast internet connection without delays. No-logs policy: Choose a provider that doesn’t monitor or store your online activity. Strong encryption: Make sure your data is protected by AES 256-bit or similar standards. Device compatibility: The VPN should work across smartphones, laptops, and routers. Extra features: Tools such as split tunneling or double-hop servers give you more control over how and where your traffic is routed. The bottom line on VPNs for VoIP If your business relies on internet-based voice and video calls, a VPN is a smart way to boost reliability, restore access to blocked services, and protect sensitive conversations. But to get the full benefit, it’s essential to properly set up and configure a VoIP with a VPN. That’s where we come in. Our IT experts will help you choose the right VPN for your needs, configure it across your devices, and make sure your VoIP traffic stays secure, stable, and fully functional. Contact us today to get started.
How to stay one step ahead of VoIP risks in 2025
If you think Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) security is simply about setting a strong password, think again. In 2025, threats against VoIP systems have become more sophisticated, necessitating advanced safeguards and strategies. But don’t fret. Here are six practical ways to secure your VoIP environment and stay one step ahead of cybercriminals. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) Strong passwords alone can’t protect your VoIP systems. It’s high time you implement multifactor authentication (MFA), which adds a second step — usually a temporary code, biometric scan, or authentication app — to ensure only authorized users get in. MFA protects VoIP portals, web-based dashboards, and softphone apps from two common types of cyberattacks: Brute-force attacks, where cybercriminals use automated software to guess your password over and over again until they get it right. Credential-stuffing attacks, where attackers use lists of usernames and passwords stolen from other websites to try and log in to your account, hoping you’ve reused the same credentials. Require true end-to-end encryption Your VoIP provider should offer end-to-end encryption that covers both call signaling and media (the actual voice or video content). End-to-end encryption means that the data is scrambled and indecipherable from the moment it leaves your system until it reaches the recipient’s device, making it virtually impossible for anyone to eavesdrop or intercept your communications. Encryption is especially vital for the healthcare, legal, and finance sectors, where voice communications often involve sensitive and confidential information. Use virtual private networks (VPNs) the right way VPNs are a reliable way to secure VoIP traffic, particularly for employees working remotely or using mobile devices, as they create a secure, encrypted tunnel between the user and your internal VoIP infrastructure. But simply installing a VPN isn’t enough. It needs to be properly configured, regularly updated, and paired with strong access controls. A poorly maintained VPN can become a point of entry rather than a security tool. Turn off the phone’s web interface Many VoIP desk phones include a web-based interface that allows users to tweak settings from a browser. But unless your team actively uses this feature, it should be disabled. Keeping the web interface open, particularly without robust authentication measures, poses a significant security risk. Hackers can exploit it to access user accounts, alter forwarding rules, or even listen in on calls. Set up a VoIP-aware firewall Not all firewalls are designed with VoIP in mind. VoIP traffic uses specific protocols like the Session Initiation Protocol, which requires a firewall that understands how to handle and filter these communications. Use only next-gen firewalls with built-in VoIP-specific protections as part of their core features. These firewalls can detect spoofed calls, prevent denial-of-service attacks, and detect unusual usage patterns that could signal abuse. Some can even terminate suspicious sessions in real time. Monitor systems 24/7 VoIP attacks often happen outside regular business hours, typically late at night or over the weekend when systems are less closely monitored. Cybercriminals take advantage of these quiet periods to commit toll fraud, access sensitive call records, or identify system vulnerabilities. This makes round-the-clock monitoring essential for safeguarding your communications. Implement tools that detect unusual call behavior, such as spikes in international calls, repeated login attempts, or connections from unfamiliar locations. Better yet, partner with a managed IT provider like us. We can help you set up these tools while offering 24/7 VoIP-aware monitoring and rapid incident response. Not sure where your VoIP security stands? Contact us. We can conduct a simple audit or a consultation to uncover VoIP vulnerabilities, enabling you to fix them before they’re exploited.
9 VoIP security measures every business owner should know
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems make business communication easier, cheaper, and more flexible than traditional phone lines. But with those benefits come risks, from data theft to call hijacking. The good news is that protecting your system doesn’t require deep technical knowledge. These VoIP security measures can help you keep your business safe and connected. 1. Use strong, unique passwords (and add a second layer) Weak or reused passwords are still one of the biggest security gaps. Every account linked to your phone system, such as user logins, admin panels, and provider dashboards, should have its own strong password. Adding two-factor authentication (2FA) gives you a second layer of protection, making it much harder for attackers to get in, even if they guess or steal a password. 2. Confirm your provider encrypts calls and data Encryption turns your calls and messages into unreadable data, keeping prying eyes and ears out. Ask your VoIP provider whether they encrypt both your call traffic and account information. If they do, your conversations are safe from interception. If not, it’s time to look at other providers who take security seriously. 3. Turn off unused phone features, like the web interface Many VoIP phones include web-based setup tools that you might never use. While convenient, they can also be an open door for hackers. Turning off unused features reduces the number of ways unauthorized parties can access your system. The fewer doors you leave unlocked, the better. 4. Work with an IT partner who watches your systems 24/7 Cyberattacks don’t stick to office hours. Having an IT team or managed IT services provider that monitors your systems around the clock means threats can be spotted and stopped before they cause damage. Continuous monitoring also helps detect unusual behavior, such as sudden spikes in call activity or login attempts, so issues can be fixed fast. 5. Use a VPN for remote workers and sensitive links If your team works remotely, a virtual private network (VPN) can protect their connections. A VPN creates a private “tunnel” for data between devices and your phone system, keeping calls and credentials safe from snooping. It’s especially useful for employees connecting through public Wi-Fi or home networks. 6. Protect VoIP traffic with a suitable firewall Not every firewall is built for VoIP. Look for one that’s designed to recognize and manage phone traffic, block suspicious call activity, and prevent unauthorized access. A good VoIP-aware firewall helps maintain call quality while reducing the chance of attacks or downtime. 7. Use AI-powered monitoring and analytics Modern AI-powered tools can make your security smarter. They can automatically detect unusual call patterns, alert you to potential fraud, and even stop suspicious activity in real time. For example, AI can flag if someone is making hundreds of international calls at once — a common sign of compromise. These systems don’t replace humans, but they do help catch problems faster and more accurately. 8. Prepare your VoIP system for 5G As 5G networks continue to roll out, they bring faster speeds and better reliability, but also new security considerations. With more devices connected and more data moving at once, it’s important to ensure your VoIP setup uses secure connections and up-to-date hardware. Work with your provider to confirm that your phones and routers are 5G-ready and have the latest firmware and encryption protocols in place. 9. Secure your UCaaS and CPaaS integrations If your business uses Unified-Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) or Communications-Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS), make sure all connected apps follow the same security standards. Limit who can access integrations, review app permissions regularly, and verify that your provider applies end-to-end encryption across all communication channels. The more unified your communication tools are, the more consistent your security should be. You don’t need to be an IT expert to protect your phone system. Just take smart, practical steps that make sense for your business. By following these VoIP security measures, you’ll keep your calls private, your data protected, and your business communications running smoothly no matter how technology evolves.
VoIP services every modern business should know about
As more companies embrace remote and hybrid work, reliable communication tools have become essential. Traditional phone systems often limit flexibility and add unnecessary costs. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solutions bridge those gaps, providing a secure, cloud-based way to manage voice, video, and chat from anywhere. Below are the VoIP services shaping the future of workplace communication. Core communication services VoIP makes communication easier by delivering multiple tools through a single internet-based system: Voice calling with clear, reliable connections that rival traditional phone lines Video meetings that enable live collaboration across locations Instant messaging for quick, real-time communication Unified messaging that merges voicemail, email, and even fax into one interface These essential tools streamline day-to-day communication and eliminate the need for separate apps or devices. Cloud-based phone services A hosted, internet-based phone system gives businesses flexibility and cost control without the burden of managing physical infrastructure. Popular cloud VoIP options include: Hosted PBX systems that come with advanced features such as auto-attendants, voicemail to email, and call forwarding — without on-site hardware SIP trunking that connects existing phone systems to the internet, reducing costs while improving call quality and scalability Cloud extensions that allow remote or hybrid employees to access the same features available to in-office staff By moving your phone system to the cloud, you simplify maintenance and ensure your communication tools grow alongside your business. Mobile connectivity services Work happens everywhere today, and mobile VoIP enables your team to stay connected no matter where they are. Benefit from: Mobile VoIP apps that turn smartphones and tablets into fully functional business phones Virtual business numbers that let employees take calls on personal devices while keeping their privacy intact Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) support that allows for secure, managed use of personal devices for company communication Cross-device syncing that keeps call logs, messages, and contacts consistent across platforms Mobile VoIP solutions extend flexibility to your workforce while maintaining the professional standards your customers expect. Smart software and device services VoIP technology integrates seamlessly with both software and hardware, allowing businesses to customize their communication setup. Some common solutions are: Softphones that let employees make calls directly from their computers or mobile apps VoIP desk phones that provide high-definition sound, programmable keys, and easy integration with other systems Call center software with intelligent call routing, analytics, and CRM integrations for better customer engagement Conference systems that support multiparty meetings and screen sharing over secure connections With these tools, teams can collaborate effectively and stay connected through any device or workspace. Integrated collaboration services The real power of VoIP lies in how it unifies communication across your organization through: Unified communication platforms that merge voice, video, chat, and file sharing into one system CRM integration that connects communication data with customer records for more personalized service Interactive voice response (IVR) menus that guide callers efficiently or provide self-service options Call analytics that give managers real-time insight into call performance, response times, and service quality These capabilities simplify internal communication and create smoother, more responsive customer interactions. AI-driven communication services Artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining how businesses use VoIP, enhancing productivity, streamlining workflows, and delivering more responsive customer experiences through: AI voice agents that handle routine tasks such as scheduling, lead capture, and support calls with natural, human-like speech Conversational IVR systems that understand spoken requests and route callers automatically Real-time transcription and translation that support multilingual and global teams Agent assist tools that provide on-call insights and recommendations to help staff resolve issues faster Smart call routing that uses context and sentiment to connect customers to the right representative By integrating these intelligent tools, companies can automate repetitive tasks, reduce wait times, and offer seamless, around-the-clock service. Ultimately, switching to VoIP isn’t just about upgrading technology. It’s about transforming how your business communicates. By consolidating voice, video, and messaging into one reliable platform, VoIP reduces costs, improves scalability, and strengthens collaboration across any location. Invest in smarter communication today and equip your organization with the VoIP solutions that drive connection, efficiency, and long-term success.
Getting your calls answered: How businesses can rise above the scam call noise
Scam calls have become so common that many people avoid picking up their phones altogether. That puts businesses in a tough spot, as even legitimate calls get ignored. This article explains why customers hesitate to answer, the hidden costs for businesses, and practical steps you can take to rebuild trust and get your calls through. Why customers don’t answer calls anymore Phone scams have grown into a daily nuisance, making people instinctively cautious about answering unknown numbers. Every time a fraudulent caller poses as a bank, government agency, or delivery service, it chips away at trust. Over time, customers stop picking up altogether just to stay safe. What makes the situation worse is caller ID spoofing. which allows scammers to disguise their number so it looks familiar or local. This makes it nearly impossible for the average person to separate a real call from a fake one. When customers hesitate to answer, businesses pay the price. Each missed call could be a lost appointment reminder, service update, or delivery confirmation, potentially leading to lost sales, operational issues, and customer frustration. How businesses can use VoIP services to get calls answered Modern Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services provide tools and features designed to help your business stand out from scam traffic and build customer trust. Use these strategies to get more of your calls answered: Partner with a provider who filters scams: A quality VoIP provider actively screens and blocks suspicious traffic, making it less likely that your outbound calls are lumped in with high-volume robocalls. When your number isn’t being routed alongside shady activity, it’s far less likely to be flagged as spam. Register your numbers: Telecom carriers and industry databases allow businesses to register official numbers. Doing so signals to networks that your calls are legitimate. For example, a business sending out payment reminders could avoid being mislabeled as a scam if the number is properly registered. Use branded caller ID: Instead of appearing as “Unknown” or just a ten-digit number, a branded caller ID displays your business name and even your logo. Customers immediately recognize who’s on the line, reducing doubt about whether it’s safe to answer. Send contextual previews: Adding a short description such as “Appointment Reminder” or “Delivery Update” to the caller display gives customers context before they even say hello. A clear preview reassures people that your call has value and relevance to them. Mix in other channels: Calls are more effective when they’re supported by other forms of communication. A quick text or email with a heading that says “we’ll be calling shortly to confirm your installation” primes the customer and sets expectations. Instead of a surprise, the call feels like a continuation of a conversation, which improves the odds of someone picking up. With the right VoIP features and strategies, businesses can stand out from the competition and provide a more personalized and convenient experience for their customers. For more advice on how to better use VoIP to your advantage, call us today.
VoIP vs. VoLTE: Which communication solution best fits your needs?
Selecting the ideal communication system is essential for business collaboration. In this article, we dive into two popular options for modern communication: VoIP and VoLTE. We’ll explore the benefits, features, and differences between the two, helping you decide which technology is best suited to your company’s needs. Explaining VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) revolutionizes how we communicate by using the internet to make voice calls. It converts voice and audio signals into digital packets, which are transmitted over the web instead of traditional phone lines. This allows for cheaper and more efficient communication, as well as the ability to integrate other forms of media such as video and messaging. Understanding VoLTE Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a technology that enables voice calls to be made over an LTE (Long-Term Evolution) network. Unlike traditional cellular networks that use circuit-switched technology for voice calls, VoLTE uses packet-switched data networks to deliver high-quality voice services. VoLTE is primarily used in mobile communications, offering seamless integration with 4G and 5G networks. VoIP and VoLTE features head to head When choosing between VoIP and VoLTE, there are three important criteria to consider:CostVoIP is a cost-effective option for businesses, especially those making frequent long-distance or international calls. It eliminates traditional phone line charges and typically offers flat-rate pricing, requiring only an internet connection and minimal equipment such as an IP phone. Most businesses even forgo the use of specialized office phones, opting for VoIP software and making calls through their computer or mobile device. This significantly reduces hardware and maintenance costs. VoLTE, while included in many mobile phone plans, can be costly for businesses relying on cellular networks. Per-minute or data-based charges can quickly add up, especially for long calls or frequent travel, making monthly costs less predictable. Call qualityVoIP call quality is largely dependent on the strength and reliability of the internet connection. In an ideal scenario, where a business has access to a fast and stable internet connection, VoIP can deliver high-quality voice calls with minimal interruptions. However, when the network is slow or unstable, it can lead to call drops, latency, or poor audio quality, which can negatively affect communication. VoLTE, on the other hand, generally offers superior call quality because it uses dedicated 4G or 5G cellular networks optimized for high-speed data transfer. The use of LTE networks means that VoLTE can deliver clearer voice calls with less delay, making it a preferred choice for users who need high-quality voice communications on the go.Businesses that rely on consistent, high-quality calls — such as customer service or sales teams — might find VoLTE to be the more reliable option. MobilityWhen it comes to mobility, both VoIP and VoLTE offer unique advantages, but the key difference lies in how they operate. VoIP is highly versatile, allowing users to make and receive calls from nearly any location with a stable internet connection. This makes it a great choice for remote workers or businesses with employees spread across different locations. However, its performance is directly tied to the internet, so call quality can be unreliable in areas with poor or inconsistent connectivity. In contrast, VoLTE is more seamless for mobile communication. Since it operates over cellular networks, employees with mobile devices don’t need to worry about internet availability to maintain call quality. VoLTE’s integration with 4G and 5G networks provides users with constant, high-quality connectivity, especially for businesses that require on-the-go communication in urban or rural areas. Which is the best option for your business? Deciding between VoIP and VoLTE comes down to the unique requirements and setup of your business. If cost savings and flexibility for remote work are your top priorities, VoIP may be the ideal choice. But if you require high-quality mobile calls with minimal latency and have access to a robust 4G/5G network, VoLTE may serve your needs better. If you’re still unsure about which system would work best for your company or if you need expert advice on setting up a tailored communication strategy, contact us today. Our team will help you make the best technology decisions.
Protecting against VoIP service theft
VoIP systems offer businesses an affordable and efficient way to stay connected. Alarmingly, the risk of VoIP theft is growing as attackers hijack services and threaten business operations. Understanding this threat and how to protect your network is crucial for avoiding costly disruptions. VoIP theft of service: What it is and how it works VoIP theft of service refers to unauthorized access to and usage of a business’s Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service. It occurs when cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities within a business’s communication systems to make calls, send messages, and perform other actions without the business owner’s knowledge or consent. They use various ways to gain unauthorized access, from session hijacking and toll fraud to identity spoofing and call pumping. The consequences of VoIP theft of service Your business may face the following consequences as a result of falling victim to this type of attack: Financial strain With VoIP theft of service, cybercriminals can run up enormous bills by making international calls, committing toll fraud, or using your network to conduct illicit activities. These inflated charges can lead to crippling costs that affect your business’s financial stability and disrupt its operations. Legal liabilities and compliance issues Unauthorized use of communication services is illegal, and you may find your business legally liable for the actions taken by cybercriminals who use your VoIP infrastructure. Legal fees and potential fines add further strain to the already dire situation, along with the risk of compliance violations in case of a data breach. Damage to reputation and trust If a cybercriminal uses your VoIP system to make calls to clients, it can cause irreparable damage to your reputation. That’s mainly because your customers, partners, and investors may lose faith in your ability to protect their data and communications. What’s more, such incidents can quickly spread across media outlets, further tarnishing your brand. Operational disruptions and downtime Cybercriminals often consume bandwidth and resources, which can degrade the quality of legitimate calls or cause complete system failure. Some of the consequences include missed opportunities, delayed responses, and general operational inefficiencies. Exposed data and privacy breaches Cybercriminals can intercept and eavesdrop on sensitive communications, gaining access to private data. This can lead to severe privacy breaches, especially if confidential information such as customer details or business strategies is compromised. How to safeguard your business from VoIP theft of service The good news is that VoIP theft of service is preventable with the right security measures and the following best practices: Use strong and unique passwords – Strengthen your security by creating complex, unique passwords that are hard to guess. Consider using passphrases for added protection. Keep your VoIP devices and apps up to date with the latest security patches – Software updates frequently contain fixes for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. You can reduce the risk of cybercriminals hacking into your system by maintaining up-to-date firmware. Monitor call logs and system activity – Unusual activity such as spikes in call volume, calls made outside normal hours, or connections to unfamiliar numbers should raise red flags. If you notice anything suspicious, report it immediately to your VoIP provider for investigation and resolution. Implement encryption to protect data – Encryption is a key tool in preventing unauthorized access to your VoIP communications. It converts data, including voice calls into an unreadable format so only authorized parties can decode it, minimizing the risk of eavesdropping and data breaches. Educate your employees on security protocols – Train your team on the importance of VoIP security, such as recognizing phishing emails, using strong passwords, and adhering to best practices for data protection. Regular training will equip them to identify potential threats and prevent security breaches. For further assistance in safeguarding your VoIP infrastructure, reach out to our security experts for tailored solutions.
AI-powered VoIP to take customer communication to new heights
From the telephone to email, technology has continually shaped how businesses connect with customers, with each new innovation building upon the last. Nowadays, artificial intelligence (AI) is enhancing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), leading to more efficient, impactful customer interactions. Let’s examine how AI-driven innovations work with VoIP to raise the bar for customer communication. AI-powered chatbots provide always-on assistance AI-powered chatbots have become a common feature in modern VoIP systems. With their ability to understand everyday language, chatbots offer immediate answers to routine questions and support customers in troubleshooting common issues. What’s more, AI is available 24/7, making businesses accessible at all hours. When businesses automate simple customer queries, they can assign human agents to more complex issues, without increasing customer wait times. Predictive analytics anticipates customer needs Integrating predictive analytics into VoIP systems is another way AI enhances business communications. By analyzing past interactions, AI can predict customer needs and preferences, enabling your team to deliver personalized experiences. For example, it can identify the optimal time for a follow-up call or anticipate common issues before they arise, allowing businesses to offer a seamless, proactive customer experience instead of simply reacting to problems. Call transcription records calls with greater clarity VoIP systems powered by AI benefit from advanced speech recognition and transcription technologies. These tools transcribe phone calls in real time, helping create an accurate record of customer interactions. Businesses can store these transcripts for future reference and analysis. Additionally, transcription AI can summarize call details, such as action items and key discussion points. Sentiment analysis understands what customers are feeling Customer communication involves more than words; it also depends on tone, emotion, and context. Fortunately, there are VoIP-compatible sentiment analysis tools that can evaluate the emotional tone of a customer’s speech. These tools detect emotions such as frustration, confusion, or satisfaction and notify the agent, who can then adjust their approach in real time. This can be invaluable in customer service, where managing frustration and stress can mean the difference between a positive and negative customer experience. Automatic call routing improves efficiency Call routing is a critical aspect of VoIP systems, but traditional methods often rely on manual intervention, which can cause delays. Fortunately, AI-enhanced VoIP systems streamline this process by automatically routing calls based on factors such as the customer’s location, query type, or previous interaction history. The biggest benefit of automatic call routing is drastically reducing wait times, which in turn enhances efficiency and boosts customer satisfaction. Data-driven insights continuously improve processes AI-powered VoIP allows businesses to capture and analyze the extensive data generated during customer exchanges. In much less time and with greater accuracy than human researchers, AI extracts insights on trends, measures customer satisfaction, and identifies areas that need improvement. For example, AI might analyze call lengths and customer feedback to highlight common issues that contribute to longer resolution times. With the rapid advancement of AI, businesses that integrate its innovations will be more capable of meeting rising customer expectations. In the long run, these innovations can help build stronger, more sustainable relationships that will help position businesses for success. For more insights into VoIP systems and how to implement them to meet your business goals, reach out to our experts.
How to prevent costly VoIP downtime
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems have emerged as a vital communication tool for businesses of all sizes. However, when these systems fail, it can negatively impact operations, productivity, and customer relationships. To prevent costly downtime, consider these seven strategies for keeping your VoIP system running smoothly and your business connected. Pick a dependable VoIP service provider A reliable VoIP system starts with selecting the right provider. The quality of service among VoIP providers can vary significantly. Some may struggle with uptime reliability or lack robust security features. Partner with a provider offering strong uptime guarantees, regular maintenance, and comprehensive security protocols. Reviewing their service level agreements and reading customer reviews can help you gauge their reliability and performance. Keep your hardware and software up to date Outdated hardware and software are often the culprits behind VoIP service disruptions. That’s why it’s important to regularly update your network devices, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, to the latest models and software versions. Additionally, always run the most current version of your VoIP application. Staying up to date not only enhances performance but also strengthens security by addressing vulnerabilities that hackers frequently exploit in outdated systems. Set up a secondary internet connection for backup When your VoIP system depends on a single internet connection, any unexpected outage can bring business communications to a complete halt. To avoid this, implement a secondary internet line with a different service provider. This way, if your primary connection goes down, your VoIP system can automatically switch to the backup, ensuring uninterrupted communication. Set up call forwarding and failover protocols In the event of a VoIP system outage, having a reliable plan to reroute incoming calls is critical. Implement call forwarding protocols so you can redirect calls to alternative destinations such as mobile phones, backup VoIP lines, or voicemail. Automatic call forwarding keeps your team connected with clients and partners, minimizing service interruption. Perform routine network health checks Effective network monitoring is key to preventing VoIP downtime. Regularly assess your network using tools such as network analyzers or VoIP-specific monitoring software. Doing so helps you identify and proactively address potential issues, such as bandwidth limitations, network congestion, or latency problems, that could degrade VoIP call quality and disrupt communication. Prioritize VoIP traffic with quality of service (QoS) protocols Network congestion can impact VoIP call quality. To make sure VoIP calls remain crystal-clear and uninterrupted, implement QoS protocols on your network. QoS works by prioritizing VoIP traffic, allocating sufficient bandwidth to prevent issues such as dropped calls, delays, or poor audio quality caused by heavy network usage. Use mobile apps for VoIP communication When your primary internet connection fails, use mobile apps to stay connected. Many VoIP providers offer apps that turn smartphones into portable VoIP devices, allowing calls through mobile data. While this option might incur additional charges, it keeps you connected when other backup plans are unavailable. Don’t wait for downtime to disrupt your operations. Take proactive steps today so your business stays connected and communication runs seamlessly. If you’re looking to optimize your VoIP system, get in touch with our experts for tailored guidance and support.
Essential strategies to defend your VoIP system against TDoS attacks
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers a range of benefits for organizations, including enhanced call quality, greater scalability and mobility, and reduced operational costs. However, it also introduces specific security risks, and among them are telephony denial-of-service (TDoS) attacks. These attacks can significantly disrupt business communications and operations. Gaining a clear understanding of TDoS threats is essential to strengthening your VoIP system’s resilience and maintaining service continuity. What is TDoS? TDoS is a specific type of denial-of-service (DoS) attack directed at VoIP systems. Unlike typical DoS attacks aimed at IT systems, TDoS is more specialized and is often used against critical services such as hospital phone lines and emergency services. Considering that these phone lines are crucial to saving people’s lives, TDoS is a pressing concern. And even more disturbing, some TDoS attackers go as far as demanding ransom, akin to the tactics employed in ransomware attacks. TDoS attacks are characterized by their efficiency, requiring fewer resources than traditional DoS attacks. In its simplest form, a TDoS attack involves an automated phone dialer repeatedly calling a specific number and disconnecting, preventing others from accessing the line. What makes TDoS a challenge to trace and identify is that attackers use cryptocurrencies and caller-ID spoofing, effectively hiding the identity of the attacker. What should organizations do to prevent TDoS attacks? Any business that relies on VoIP for communication must take proactive steps to protect its system against TDoS attacks. VoIP security measures work best when implemented long before an attack happens to effectively ensure your organization is protected from any potential TDoS storm. Make sure to include security measures when your VoIP system is first installed. However, while fortifying your VoIP system with complex security measures may seem like the best solution, it may hinder business operations. Most businesses rely heavily on seamless communication with customers, partners, and third parties, and stringent security measures can impede this essential function. Instead, you should find a good balance between security and usability. Here are some strategies to achieve this balance: Call monitoring: One of the easiest ways to prevent a TDoS attack is by implementing call monitoring to analyze and track call traffic. Once call traffic breaches an established limit, it can be directed to other organizations. IP address verification: Set up your VoIP to only receive calls from select and verified IP addresses, such as within your service area. Anti-fraud software: Implement fraud prevention software designed to autonomously analyze multiple phone calls at once for signs of a TDoS attack, such as too many calls from the same origin points or directed at the same destination. Once the software has identified a possible attack in progress, it blocks or reroutes the calls. Call overflow reserve: Maintain or prepare additional call capacity that can be activated in response to sudden increases in call volume. Periodic assessment: Perform regular assessments to ensure your VoIP systems have the necessary call capacity (both primary and reserve), no matter the volume of traffic. Use the results of these assessments to identify and correct weaknesses in your VoIP system. Education: Train your employees to recognize the signs of a TDoS attack and implement the necessary protocols to mitigate it. Continuity of operations agreements: Organizations that handle healthcare or emergency service calls need to establish agreements with similar organizations to ensure service continuity during a TDoS attack. Protect your VoIP from TDoS and other threats. Connect with one of our IT specialists today.