SIP vs. VoIP – What are the differences? The terms SIP and VoIP are used together in relation to telephone systems, which don’t use PSTN lines for transmitting or reserving calls. However, this is not the same thing.
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. In simpler terms, it enables voice and multimedia communications to be transmitted over the Internet. This system was revolutionary in business communications, and after 2025 would be the only way telephone systems can operate in the UK, as traditional PSTN lines are going to be switched off.
VoIP increased in popularity in recent years due to its cost-effectiveness and easy installation for remote working.
SIP on the other side, stands for Session Initiation Protocol. It is widely used to start multimedia communication sessions, such as voice and video calls. In short, SIP is one of the specific protocols enabling VoIP, a way of setting up and managing communication sessions over the Internet.
So how does SIP work?
SIP connects two or more devices, such as phones or computers, to enable them to communicate with each other. This protocol works on the top of the internet connection, ensuring that even if two of the devices are not the same, they are still able to communicate.
SIP trunking works as a virtual phone line and, where VoIP supports only voice, SIP trunking also supports video, messaging, and fax. SIP trunking is very flexible, as they are made of multiple channels, and each channel can connect to a single phone call. It allows multiple calls to be handed in at the same time.
One of the main advantages of SIP trunking is cost-effectiveness, when it comes to the infrastructure, as businesses don’t need to pay for a new phone line every time they hire a new employee. Instead, a new channel can be added to the system for a new phone line.
However, the VoIP system must be the backbone of any business communications, as you can add SIP trunking features to create a communication system tailored to your business.
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