November 18, 2014
All methods of communication within businesses should be secure, including voice communication. The increased adoption of technology and communication channels has not come without questions and concerns. The number one concern that businesses have is information security. Businesses manage massive stores of data, from employee records to detailed client/subscriber lists; in addition to the data itself, the exchange of and the discussions about this information needs to be secure.
When it comes to information security, VoIP answers the call every time.
What is VoIP and How is it Used?
VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, phones look exactly the same as traditional handsets; they have all the same hardware, with a handset, cradle and buttons. However, VoIP phones connect to your company’s IP data network via Ethernet cables rather than plugging into the standard phone network established by your local provider.
VoIP systems bring an unprecedented level of maneuverability, flexibility and scalability to your office. When the office undergoes remodeling or employees shift to different workstations, VoIP phones can be unplugged, moved to a new location and plugged back into the network without requiring rewiring or reconfiguring. Wherever a network connection point exists, your VoIP phones are ready to go.
VoIP also gives your business new levels of flexibility and control. You can add new features via web-based programs that offer your employees access to voicemail-to-text translation, call conferencing and even video conferencing (depending upon your provider). This can all be managed with a few clicks of a mouse, rather than spending hours discussing with your provider.
Most importantly, adding new employees to your system is easier with VoIP, than traditional phone systems. When your company grows, new phone connections can be added by simply plugging in a new VoIP phone, rather than running more cable and installing new wall jacks.
VoIP and Information Security
VoIP systems come with inherent security risks, which you should be aware of; but more importantly, know that solutions to these risks exist. Unsecure VoIP networks make it possible for hackers to access your network and engage in a variety of harmful activities. These activities range from minor strikes such as using your network to make long-distance calls (at your expense) to more sophisticated attacks that capture VoIP traffic data and convert it to plain audio files for future reference.
All of this is avoidable with proper security measures. In fact, your VoIP system can be even easier to secure than a traditional phone network, because it is linked into your private network. The enterprise security software you use to protect your servers and data traffic can also be used to protect your VoIP communication, because it all runs on your network.
In other words, because voice data packets are transmitted on your network, the information shared during teleconferences or video conferences can be saved and stored on those secure servers. Even when employees need to conduct business calls from remote locations or on the road, they can access the company’s network to make secure calls to coworkers and clients.
How is This Possible?
The answer is simple. Your VoIP phone system exists on your company’s private network, which means that it operates behind your business firewall and is protected by your enterprise security software. Your corporate security software programs can keep updated patches in place to provide consistent security, detect network intrusion protection and block hackers from accessing information transmitted through your VoIP systems.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Voice Communication Security
VoIP phone security is just as important as secure email communication and data storage. With the help of a technology services provider, your company can install a VoIP system that is easily secured on your company’s private network. Not only will you have an efficient and flexible phone system in place, a necessary tool for conducting business today, but you’ll be able to communicate without concerns about information security. If you are ready to talk to a specialist to discuss your options, request an assessment of your current phone system.
