Wireless VoIP : Are you in for it?
Wireless VoIP is VoIP running over a Wireless LAN (WLAN). These WLANs are typically compliant with the 802.11 standard. As long as callers are within range of a WLAN access point and using a VoIP enabled handset, they can make and receive calls over the wireless network. Wireless VoIP is gaining adoption in certain vertical industries, such as health care and retail, where worker mobility is critical to a productive workforce.
However, there are certain drawbacks of using wireless VoIP. First, the 802.11 standard poses scalability challenges for enterprise class VoIP deployments. Second, Quality of Service has been lacking in wireless networks. The 802.11(e) version of the standard is specified to include QoS support. Third, implementing and maintaining a Wireless VoIP solution can be expensive and time consuming. Fourth, fast roaming is required for Wireless VoIP to operate in a seamless manner, something promised by the 802.11(r) standard.
However, the future is bright for wireless VoIP. Changes on many fronts will impact the delivery of a wireless VoIP solution. If you are in for it, it will be important to focus on the following areas:
• Define the exact wireless telephony requirements within your company. These become the baseline from which evaluation and selection of various wireless VoIP options are made.
• Understand and incorporate any corporate wireless LAN strategies/polices into selection of a final solution option (security and QoS).
• Identify and focus on any specific PBX (or PSTN) connectivity features that are required, as they will impact any final solution configuration.
• Fully understand the current and future support plans from the selected vendor to supply the wireless VoIP components. This will allow for making future transition plans for expected changes that impact either firmware or hardware.