How do I choose a VoIP phone?

The first choice is determining if you want a hardware VoIP phone or a software VoIP phone.

Hardware phones are generally easier to use and do not require a PC. Software phones are usually less expensive and may offer better options for CTI (Computer Telephony Integration).

Choosing a VoIP Phone

With either a hardware or software VoIP phones, the major considerations remain the same:

* What VoIP call control protocols does the phone support?
o H.323
o SIP
o MGCP
o IAX2
* What VoIP codecs does the phone support?
o G.711
o G.722
o G.723
o G.726
o G.727
o G.728
o G.729
o ILBC
o Speex
o GSM - Full Rate
o GSM - Enhanced Full Rate
o GSM - Half Rate
o DoS FS-1015
* Does the phone support 3-way calling
* Does the phone support Do-Not-Disturb (DND)
* Does the phone support custom ringtones?
* Does the phone provide a method to work behind routers and NAT?
* Does the phone support STUN?
* Does the phone support Symmetric RTP?
* Does the phone support a SIP outbound proxy?
* Does the phone support QoS
* Does the phone support encryption?
o Secure RTP
o AES

Choosing a Hardware VoIP Phone

When selecting a hardware VoIP phone, you should consider these items:

* What connections does the VoIP phone support?
o Ethernet
+ Does the phone support Power Over Ethernet?
o Wi-Fi
o Dialup
o ISDN
* Does the phone support IPv6?
* Does the phone support videoconferencing?
* Is the phone handset corded or cordless?
* Does the phone have a handset or a headset?
* Does the phone have a speakerphone?
* Does the phone have an LCD display?
o Is the LCD display backlit?
* Does the phone have good ergonomics?
* Do you like the style of the phones?

Choosing a Software VoIP Phone

If you choose a software VoIP phone, you should consider these items:

* Does the phone software support my Operating System?
* Is the phone software easy to use?
* Does the software support customizable skins?
* Does the software support videoconferencing?
* Does the software support shared whiteboarding?

And, of course, the final purchasing decision should always include price as a criteria.