SUSSEX SIP/IAX TRUNKING – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are SIP and IAX2 trunking?

SIP (Session Initiated Protocol) and IAX2 (Inter-exchange) are two common VOIP protocols used to communicate between VOIP devices.  SIP is a generic protocol (code), while IAX2 is proprietary to the Asterisk family of VOIP PBX's.  The connections between VOIP devices may use either of these protocols, depending on the device.

Can I replace my existing legacy telco trunks with Sussex SIP channels?

Absolutely, and take advantage of significant savings.  What is required is a gateway to interface between your existing digital or analogue equipment, and the Sussex servers, which provide connection to the world.  Sussex supplies various gateways, depending on customer requirements, or you can provide you own.

What is the difference between a “channel” and a “trunk”?

In the VOIP world, not much.  Consider a channel to be equivalent to a trunk in the legacy telco environment.   If your system required five trunks to connect to the telco central office, it will require five channels for a VOIP connection.  Each channel or trunk represents one simultaneous telephone call.

What is the difference between channel pricing and per minute pricing?

The rate you choose to contract for, depends upon your usage.  In per minute pricing, many simultaneous calls are allowed, but each call is rated on a per minute basis; with channel pricing, the rate is fixed, no matter how many calls, but the number of simultaneous calls is limited to the number of channels purchased.

Should I convert my existing key or PBX system to a Sussex Virtual PBX at the same time I am installing Sussex Trunking?

That depends on a number of factors .. age of system, on-going maintenance cost with the existing system and MAC charges, features required, etc.   In many cases, it is cost effective to replace an existing key or PBX system with a Sussex Virtual PBX, for the maintenance and MAC savings alone, let alone the potential additional features.  For a new system, we strongly recommend the Sussex Virtual PBX; its quick to install, there is a minimal up front cost, its fully featured, and there are minimal Moves, Adds, and Changes charges in the future, as you have control over all system changes yourself.   If you do not wish to administer your own system, Sussex, or one of its certified interconnect partners, would provide this service for you, at a modest fee.

Other questions?

Please don't hesitate to call us, if you have any other questions regarding Sussex Virtual PBX.  We can be reached at 1-888-3-SUSSEX, or 613-274-0606, or email sussex@sussexgroup.ca