VoIP Call Quality - How to Improve It?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls are telecommunication technologies that allow you to make and receive calls over the Internet instead of traditional phone lines. You can use multiple devices for VoIP calls, such as smartphones, computers, and tablets.

The process of VoIP calls is simple and straightforward. First, the audio files are converted into digital data packets and then sent those packets through the internet. Here are the simple steps of how VoIP works:

• First, specialized codecs capture and convert the analog inputs into digital signals.
• Then, VoIP codecs break down those signals into small data packets.
• Now, the VoIP system sends data packets over the broadband connection to the receiver.
• The receiver’s device transforms those packets into original analog, which are played through the headphones or the device’s speakers.
• The process repeats throughout the call.

Issues like network instability, limited bandwidth, high latency, data packet loss and outdated equipment can affect the VoIP call quality.

A stable and strong network connection is required for smooth VoIP calls. Internet issues such as low speed and network congestion directly impact VoIP call quality. Unstable networks are the primary cause of call drops, delays, and low audio quality.

VoIP calls certainly require relatively low bandwidth than traditional phone lines. However, you may experience choppy audio or connection drops if your internet connection has limited bandwidth.

Ideally, a bandwidth between 3 to 5 Mbps is necessary for optimal sound quality.

Latency is the delay that occurs when sending or receiving data through the Internet. It arises when the callers are distanced from each other or when packets are lost.

The acceptable latency for qualitative VoIP calls is around 150 milliseconds or lower.

VoIP calls rely on data packets. If some of these packets are lost during transmission due to network congestion or a weak connection, it results in gaps between conversations and distorted audio.

The packet loss between 0 and 1% is acceptable. If it exceeds this, it may cause connection loss.

If the callers and receivers are long-distance from each other (mainly international calls), this also affects call quality. You may experience higher latency or jitter due to longer travel times for signals. 

Sometimes, poor call quality results from mistakes on the user’s end. An improper configuration of hardware and software, outdated equipment, and improper wiring may lead to connection loss and call drops.

The primary quality issues in VoIP calls are due to choppy audio, robotic voice, echo, and call drops. These issues can be solved by using a strong connection, optimizing bandwidth, and using a wideband codec that reduces packet loss, latency, and jitter to facilitate flawless communication.

Firstly, check your internet connection to see if it is stable. To do this, use an online speed test and ensure it meets the minimum requirements for VoIP calls. A wired ethernet connection can provide higher-quality calls over WiFi. 

Use strong network monitoring tools to identify jitter, latency, and bandwidth range. These tools will determine where the problems occur - whether it is within your local network or with VoIP providers. This will help you to maintain a smooth connection.

Sometimes, unclear sound occurs due to insufficient bandwidth. To resolve VoIP call quality issues due to limited bandwidth, consider upgrading your internet plan to provide more bandwidth, especially if multiple devices are connected to the network. You can also reduce bandwidth for other applications or restrict downloads while making calls.

You can use a wideband codec for crystal-clear call quality. G.722 provides superior voice clarity by capturing a broader range of frequencies up to around 7-8 kHz. However, it needs higher bandwidth, which costs more.

Defective and outdated hardware/software may lead to interference in ongoing conversations.
You must regularly check your VoIP equipment, such as headphones, speakers, and microphones. Ensure that the equipment works properly and replace it if needed.

Firewalls and security software can sometimes block VoIP transmissions due to privacy concerns. Ensure that your firewall or router is configured correctly to allow VoIP traffic through the necessary ports. You can also consult the network administrator or service provider for proper guidelines.

To improve VoIP call quality, use a strong internet connection and prioritize ethernet network over Wi-fi. Also, invest in high-definition equipment, such as noise-canceling headsets and VoIP-optimized routers, to reduce distortion.

Internet connection is one of the main factors that affects the quality of calls. So, you must use a high-speed and reliable network connection. Also, whenever possible, use the wired network for maximum stability.

Always invest in high-definition (HD) equipment, such as noise-cancellation featured headsets, high-quality IP phones, and VoIP-optimized routers. These tools play a vital role in sound clarity and reduce distortions. 
 

Consistently assess the quality of your VoIP calls using different analysis tools or monitoring metrics like jitter, latency, and packet loss. Regular evaluation can help you address issues before they become significant problems.

Quality of Service (QoS VoIP) allows you to prioritize VoIP traffic over other data types. By configuring QoS settings, you can minimize the risk of call degradation due to network congestion. This is mainly useful when multiple devices share the same internet connection.

Among the many VoIP service providers available today, Calilio stands out for affordability and superior voice clarity. Its HD voice technology ensures crystal-clear audio while minimizing background noise. Morevoer, its features, like live call monitoring and call analysis, help to determine the quality of each call. Plus, its high uptime (99.99%) network reliability ensures consistent communication without any interruption. Sign Up on Calilio today for high-quality VoIP calls. 

To prevent VoIP call drops, ensure a stable and strong internet connection, and prioritize VoIP traffic with QoS settings. Also, try using a wired connection if possible.

Poor call quality is the result of network glitches, high latency/jitter, packet loss, and insufficient bandwidth. 

Yes, VoIP call quality is better than traditional landlines as long as you have a strong network connection.