To help answer your questions we have compiled the following Frequently Asked Questions about telecommunications industry products and services. If you are seeking to understand how your business can profit from next-generation telephony, VoIP, broadband, DSL, and more, look here first.

Q: What are the major types of business phone systems on the market today and how do I make sure that a system is the right one at the right size for my company?

A: The three major types of business phone systems are VoIP systems, traditional VoIP-enabled PBX systems, and key systems. The type of system you choose will depend on the number of lines or trunks and extensions you need and the features you require. Most extensions will be for telephones, but do not forget to tally credit card terminals, modems, fax machines, computers, and any other equipment that requires a phone connection.

Q: How can I be sure I am choosing the best phone system for my company?

A: Do not let the worry that you may be purchasing more technology than you really need stop you from investing in a next-generation phone system. Look for a solution that offers all the benefits of a traditional phone system while allowing you to add new features, when they are needed, at your own speed, and according to your budget restrictions. The system you choose should not be dependent on a specific vendor’s proprietary IP infrastructure.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of traditional leased lines vs a private network?

A: Geographically dispersed corporate sites are often interconnected by renting dedicated leased lines between each node on the Wide Area Network (WAN). Leased line connectivity offers excellent quality of service and security; however, it is also expensive. Many enterprises are now migrating to more cost-effective options such as IP-based Virtual Private Networks (IP-VPNs) or Frame Relay. Frame Relay delivers a permanent virtual circuit (PVC), which means that you benefit from what looks like a continuous, dedicated connection, without having to pay for a full-time leased line. Instead you are charged based on actual usage.

Q: Everyone is talking about VoIP. What is it, and is it right for my business?

A: VoIP—Voice over Internet Protocol—is the next generation of technology in business phone systems. VoIP uses your existing data network to cost-effectively transmit your voice traffic. An investment in VoIP may be advisable if your enterprise has offices in multiple locations and substantial annual interoffice communication costs. If you are considering this new technology, it is important that you consult an expert who can completely discuss the logistics, advantages and disadvantages of switching from a traditional phone system to a VoIP system.

Q: How can we protect our company from toll fraud through the remote access features of our PBX equipment?

A: Ask your provider about the security systems and monitoring services available to protect your equipment and telephone service from toll fraud. Make it a standard procedure for your employees to regularly change the passwords and authorization codes they use for remote access and voice mail. The Communications Fraud Control Association, a non-profit organization, serves as a clearinghouse for consumer information and complaints regarding toll fraud:

Q: We have had to build firewalls between our wireless and wireline assets and create separate networks for each. When will wireline and wireless converge?

A: The goal of the Wireless Wireline Convergence Working Group, created by the International Packet Communications Consortium (IPCC), is to provide "feature transparency and seamless mobility across wireline (DSL, fiber, cable) and wireless (3G, Wi-Fi and WiMax) networks." One of the factors driving convergence is that traditional wireline companies have been losing customers and want to regain them by bundling services. New technologies like DSL, cable, VoIP, and low-cost wireless broadband access will bring convergence of wireless and wireline networks and services when they are integrated into a single device that will supply video, voice, data, and mobility, all in one.

Q: How can I find unbiased advice on services from major providers of local, long distance, Internet and data?

A: Simple. Contact Network South. Our no-obligation consultation can save you time and resources, and we will provide your business with a free analysis of all your local, long distance, Internet, and network requirements.