Did you know that Skype Connect is a fantastic VoIP service that can provide SIP connectivity between your business phone system and the Skype network?
By adding Skype Connect to a SIP-enabled PBX such as the Avaya IP500, your business can save on communication costs with little or no additional upgrades required.
With Skype Connect, you’ll not only be able to make great value Skype calls from the office, you’ll also be able to receive Skype calls from your customers on your desk phones.
Customers can also contact your business for free by using Skype through Skype buttons, by calling the Skype business accounts associated with your SIP-enabled PBX, and by dialing any Skype Numbers you may have purchased.
There are a number of phone systems compatible with Skype Connect, including:
- Avaya
- Cisco
- LG Ericsson
- NEC
- Siemens
What do you need to start using Skype with your SIP phone system?
Before you can start enjoying the convenience of Skype connect, there are a few things you’ll need to have in place.
1. Skype Manager™
You’ll have to install Skype Manager, the program that’s used to manage Skype Connect
2. A SIP-enabled PBX system
We recommend that you use a Skype Connect certified PBX or gateway.While a non-certified PBX may work with Skype Connect, we cannot ensure that all features and functions will operate correctly.
3. A quality internet connection
The ability of your internet connection to handle Skype calls is crucial. In some cases, a single data connection in your office may e able to handle both your general internet use and your VoIP calls, however, in many cases it pays to have a separate data service, to guarantee uninterrupted calls. Your service provider should help you make the right decision for your business.
Your data service should provide less than 200ms Round Trip Delay (RTD) between your business LAN and sip.skype.com. You can check the suitability of your internet connection by checking the RTD from your business network (LAN) to Skype Connect. You can do this by sending a ping to sip.skype.com and noting the average time shown in the ping results.
4. A publicly reachable IP Address…
If your PBX is located on a private network behind a NAT firewall or router, you can still use Skype Connect by using the SIP Registration method of authentication.
Alternatively, if your PBX does not support registrations or you don’t wish to use the SIP Registration method, you can use the IP Authentication method.
5. A means to pre-pay for Skype products…
You’ll need to be able to top up your Skype Credit using a PayPal account, credit or debit card, or a bank transfer.
6. A traditional fixed telephone line…
Skype is not a replacement for traditional telephone services and cannot be used for emergency calling. Skype Connect is meant to complement existing traditional telephone services used with a corporate SIP-enabled PBX, not as a stand-alone solution.
Skype Connect users need to ensure that all calls to emergency services are terminated through traditional fixed line telephone services, connected to the local exchange, or through other emergency calling capable telephone services.
