VOIP.com - Internet Phone Service

VoIP offers unparalleled flexibility in telecommunication for both individuals and multinational enterprise. Every technology, however, has its own set of security issues and voip is no exception.

Vulnerabilities

Because voip uses IP networks to transmit voice data, its security risks mirror that of regular IP data networks. Denial of Service (DOS) attacks create access nightmares; Viruses, worms and malware can cause trouble for voip users, just as they do on IP data networks. Software weaknesses can be exploited to extract sensitive information, while unauthorized access to administrative tools and toll fraud are real problems.

Traditional security measures that work well for IP data networks don't always translate to viable VoIP solutions because they cause lags and packet bottlenecks that can negatively affect a user's Quality of Service.

Solutions

Fortunately, VoIP service providers and telecommunications security firms offer a variety of options to keep your VoIP secure, without sacrificing voice quality or reliability.

Best practice recommendations call for dynamic defenses that are powerful and multilayered. Firewalls block unauthorized access to IP phones, while encryption keeps private information, like credit card numbers, safe from hackers. Stringent authorization measures and responsible administration practices help secure voice over IP networks. Networks are often divided into separate security zones for data and voice, allowing tailored security solutions for each zone.

VoIP's explosive popularity has caused a similar expansion in available defenses for the IP community. This gives companies the luxury of choosing robust security systems that are easy to implement and user-friendly.