Skype has expanded testing of their Skype for SIP beta, opening it to any interested business.
What is Skype for SIP?
Skype for SIP allows businesses to integrate Skype VoiP calls with supported PBX systems. This allows employees to make regular calls from their desktop phone, and behind the scenes the PBX will route the call via Skype. Skype has very competitive international rates, so if your company has a need for a lot of international calling, it could result in substantial savings.
Businesses may also choose to purchase online numbers wherever they are located to let customers in that country call them at local rates. By adding click to call buttons on web pages and emails all registered Skype users worldwide can reach your business, reception or call center for free using Skype.
What is SIP?
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is a standards-based protocol that is implemented by all leading communications equipment vendors to enable conversations over the internet. SIP is a defined standard described in RFC 3261 and is predominantly used in business environments.
Caveats
The Skype for SIP beta is free, but you will pay for any local numbers and calls placed at prevailing Skype Out rates. And you will need to have a compatible PBX that meets the following requirements:
- Protocol: SIP (rfc3261)
- IP Transport: UDP
- Authentication: SIP DIGEST or IP Authentication
- Channels: Maximum of 300 simultaneous channels
- CODECS:G.711, G.729 and SILK*
- DTMF: Inband and rfc2833
- E.164: International number format for all calls (local, national and international)
Finally, remember that this is a beta. Don’t rely on it as your only link to the world. Test it and expect the usual problems you’d find with any beta software.
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