SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol, and a SIP trunk refers to using VoIP (Voice Over IP) services to connect a private network to a worldwide network – aka the internet. With a SIP trunk setup, the users are able to utilize the global connectivity and speed of the internet in order to connect to and communicate with mobile phones and land line telephones. This is accomplished via a trunk, aka a special line that is built to carry multiple signals in both directions — to and from the phones to the originating centers where calls are being made from or to.
In order to implement SIP trunking in your business network, you will need to have a private branch exchange (PBX) established. The good news is that even if you’re not overly familiar with these technical terms, if you’re a business or enterprise, you most likely already have a PBX configured – this is a telephone switch system that allows your setup to have multiple telephone lines for your system, without necessarily having to pay for the leasing of each of those lines from your phone service carrier. You simply have one central phone line from your carrier to your business or enterprise, and then the PBX system that is set up within digitally routes calls to separate numbers that you designate. Of course, these aren’t full numbers like you would have for a home or business line – they’re extensions, with each extension being assigned to a specific device on the network. The PBX routes calls based on the extension they go to – 149 for sales or 235 for technical support, for example.
Choosing to add SIP trunk setup to your company’s communications system is an excellent way to “piggyback” on an existing setup in order to get to the internet, and to use that internet connection to handle phone calls and data transfer. While the setup sounds complicated, an experienced technician can easily take care of it all, and you’ll have an efficient voice and data system that is cost-efficient and cuts down on wires and physical devices.