subject: Sip Works Well With Other Protocols To Improve Business Communications [print this page] The real test of the usefulness of any specific protocol is its ability to integrate and 'play nicely' with other protocols. SIP, or Session Initiated Protocol, is one of the best tools out there for enabling communication in tandem with other tools. SIP is currently the de facto standard protocol used for signaling in the Internet telephony industry, meaning that its purpose is to set up, modify, and terminate communication sessions that take place within IP networks. The technology's incredibly flexibility means that SIP can be integrated seamlessly with current and future communications tools. This integration creates the ability to implement unified communication, allowing for voice calls, data transfer, and other forms of communication to take place in real time through a reliable and trusted platform.
With the rapid advance of technology, complex or insular methods quickly become outdated. SIP's advantage is that it does not try to do everything; SIP based systems have the luxury of relying on other tools to handle specialized tasks. It can be implemented on a scalable level with nearly any type of modular network.
SIP can be used in a flexible overlay that allows traditional telephony methods (where calls move on a single level, with stops and switches in between points) to become a fluid, universal communications system. VoIP works with SIP seamlessly to allow multiple users to communicate via phone, email and IM.
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This forms a unified communications network that encourages new methods of business interaction. SIP acts as a catalyst for other protocols, allowing for all types of communications applications to be integrated into user friendly interfaces. When SIP, hosted VoIP and web based applications are used together, communication becomes a multifaceted experience.
SIP can easily be built into web applications that show your call status, allow you to initiate calls with the click of your mouse and transfer calls with easy drag and drop features. You can enable HD voice calling for global calls to improve audio capability. You can have voice messages transferred to your PC to listen to and forward or save, and even have your calls follow you from device to device until a connection is made.
SIP is expected to hold its position as the primary universal protocol for session initiation, modification, and termination for the foreseeable future. As part of a modular network, it is helping to bring telephony into the Internet age and provide a stable platform for unified communications.
