These two terms are often used hand-in-hand with one another, but what is the real difference? Are they synonyms for one another, or are they two completely different things?
Keep reading to find out!
What is VoIP?
VoIP is Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is a technology that allows you to make calls over the internet rather than through a phone line. This saves a lot of money on phone bills. You don’t pay for minutes or for long-distance, you only pay for internet access.
In a VoIP call, your voice is turned into packets of audio and sent over the internet to the other person in the call – and likewise, their voice is sent back in audio packets.
VoIP requires some sort of internet protocol to run. SIP is by far the most common, but you can use others such as H. 323. However, VoIP technology is only capable of transmitting voice from phone to phone if you’re using anything other than SIP.
Alongside SIP, you can do much more. We’ll get back to that, but first let’s find out what SIP exactly is.
What is SIP?
SIP (or Session Initiation Protocol) is effectively a set of rules that allow VoIP systems to function. It regulates the transmission of information from one device to another – or many others, and is used in video conferences, forms of text-based messaging, and more.
In simple terms, SIP acts like a language. When you make a call on a VoIP phone, you’re telling your phone to initiate the call.
SIP is the language used to “talk” to the phone. It’s how your phone is able to know to maintain the call when the other person has picked up, and how it’s able to know to terminate the call when you hang up.
While you can have a VoIP system without SIP, SIP is universally accepted as the industry standard, and very few people use an alternative.
So from this point onwards in this post we’ll assume that all VoIP systems use SIP.
VoIP and SIP together
VoIP on its own is only capable of voice calling, but SIP makes it possible to send video, text, and more – pretty much any kind of digital communication will usually use SIP.
Another advantage of VoIP is its mobility. You can go anywhere and make a call – as long as you have internet access. In the event of a sudden emergency, you can switch over to work-from-home with ease.
Not only that, but you save a ton of money on hardware as well – all you need is a phone and a router, rather than all the equipment required to operate a landline system! This also makes it really easy to expand and add more devices to your system as needed.
You might not even need to use the same phone, as many VoIP providers also offer a softphone app – meaning you can use your cell phone instead!
Together, VoIP and SIP allow for the creation of powerful and versatile tools.
The Verdict
So in reality, SIP and VoIP are two different things that work together in order for most internet communications to happen.
VoIP allows people to connect over the internet in many ways, and SIP enables VoIP systems to function by regulating it and telling it what to do.
If you’re looking for the best VoIP solutions, get in touch with us here at Bulwark today!
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Bulwark Security & AV Solutions Ltd is now offering a full featured business phone system
During these unprecedented and rapidly changing times you need cost-effective solutions to work efficiently from anywhere. We are now proud to offer a scalable cloud-based phone system that enables you to work reliably, both in the office and remotely.
We can help your organization maintain vital services for remote staff and customers with a quick, easy deployment, and zero-touch options.
Talk to one of our specialists to get setup today!
- Work Local or Remote w/Mobile Options and Desktop Options
- Video & Audio Conferencing
- Internet Fax
- Call Recording
- In-depth Analytics
- Cost-Effective
- Increased Productivity
- Easily Scalable
- Reliability w/ Zero Downtime
- Voicemail Transcription
Converting from a traditional system to our business phone system is easy and affordable. Your transition will be seamless without downtime.
Why Not Make The Switch?
Still have questions? To find out more about how a cloud phone system will benefit your business, contact us today to learn more!
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Whether you are looking for general advice on upgrading your technology or optimizing your network, we are here to help.
Here are the details of upcoming changes:
[table id=11 /]
For devices utilizing VOICE:
- 4G LTE devices that use the 3G 1900MHz (Band 2) for DATA or VOICE fall-back operation will no longer be able to use the 2G/3G 1900MHz network after March 31, 2021.
- Rogers’ 850MHz frequency (Band 5) will continue to be available as a 2G/3G technology and any 4G LTE devices that use the 2G/3G 850MHz network for DATA or VOICE fall-back operation will continue to operate.
- If fallback by a 4G LTE device to 3G 1900MHz (Band 2) for DATA or VOICE operation is important for the customer’s solution, then these devices should be migrated prior to March 31, 2021 to avoid service disruption.
In order to maintain services, KORE is pleased to offer your organization the latest in network technologies that provide several benefits over older technologies:
- LTE – Available for your high-bandwidth applications.
- LTE-M (Category M1) – Available for your low-bandwidth applications – offering the benefits of extended battery life, improved coverage, and low-cost devices.
By working together quickly and efficiently, our goal is to ensure this 2G/3G Network turndown does not affect your business.
For all questions about this update or requests for support specific to this update, please reach out to [email protected]
]]>Modern manufacturing is all about innovating with digital prototyping and technologies like 3D printing – all of which require a high degree of raw computing power.
Workstations are ideal for providing this resource, where their large processing power can crunch complex formulas and graphics, while a screen provides a valuable visual interface for an engineer or operator.
Workstation evolution
For many years, the engineering workstation was a device category in its own right. Distinct from regular home and business PCs, the workstation was designed and built for high-end computation and graphics applications and included:
- 64-bit processors (when PCs were 32-bit)
- Large amounts of enterprise-grade memory
- Discrete graphics capability
- Plenty of local storage
In addition to the high-end hardware, workstations were also characterized by their Unix operating systems in a world where most people used Windows. As PC technology matured, 64-bit CPUs became a standard and applications were ported to Windows, Mac OS X and Linux.
Nowadays a workstation is functionally equivalent to a high-end desktop, but with more grunt and raw processing power for high end, resource hungry applications.
Why workstations still matter
With workstations now readily available, CIOs must evaluate the use cases for workstations and how they can complement ubiquitous mobile computers. In manufacturing, the business case for workstations remains solid.
1. Processing power, memory and storage
The processing power, memory and storage of workstations are superior to portable computers, and this is important where the immediacy of operational parameters is crucial. Workstations can also be “clustered” to deliver far greater performance than regular PCs.
2. High-end graphics
The high-end graphics capability and large display options of workstations make them well suited to manufacturing where visual design and monitoring are central to operations.
3. Digital prototyping
Manufacturing is moving from traditional physical prototyping to the new era of digital prototyping. Products are designed then tested in a simulated environment using the materials’ known properties. Using workstations for digital prototyping can significantly reduce production costs and the time to market.
4. Security
Workstations have the added advantage of being able to be locked down and located in control rooms away from sensitive manufacturing equipment. Many manufacturing operations restrict mobile devices on site for reasons of fire safety and interference protection.
5. A complete environment
Workstations still have the best support for the widest range of manufacturing and engineering applications. Mobile device platforms are catching up, but the platform support and user experience of workstations is a much more complete environment than what portables offer.
The engineering workstation is alive and well in digital manufacturing and continues to offer a strategic advantage over other computing options. It’s up to CIOs and IT managers to put them to best use, to ensure their operation remains innovative, productive and cost-effective.
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Power-packed and business ready the ThinkCenter M720s is the perfect choice for progressive IT managers looking for high-performance, reliable, and secure desktops.
Easy to set up, deploy, and manage in any office environment, the M720s boasts the latest processing, memory, and storage technology. In addition, it comes with robust security features to safeguard your critical data and the built-in reliability your organization can count on.
Take productivity to the next level
Best Features
Real power, real results
The ThinkCentre M720 SFF is designed to help you get what you need done, quickly and efficiently. Powered by the latest generation of Intel® processors and with lightning-fast DDR4 memory, it takes everything in its stride—from everyday computing to high-end graphic design and multi-tasking to data crunching.
Go green, save green
With its Energy Star® 7.0 and EPEAT™ Gold rating, the ThinkCentre M720 SFF is proven to be extremely energy efficient. In addition, it also has been rigorously tested and awarded the world’s first Ultra Low Noise Certificate by TUV Rheinland.
Ultimate reliability
Windows 10 Pro devices provide you the powerful essentials you need for your business PCs – more security features, enhanced control, and robust and innovative devices – and help stretch your resources to get more done.
ThinkCentre M720s Specifications
$75 REBATE
PN: 10ST002FUS
- Processor: 2.8 GHz Intel Core i5
- RAM: 8 GB DDR4
- Memory Speed: 2666 MHz
- Hard Drive: 256 GB Flash Memory Solid State
- Graphics Coprocessor: Intel UHD Graphics 630
There’s no need to sacrifice performance for the sake of price. This 23.8-inch Full-HD monitor with In-Plane Switching displays brilliant images across the full wide-angle screen, and exceptional response time reduces motion blur on fast-moving images. Ideal for any office environment, the Lenovo™ ThinkVision® E24 Monitor features versatile connectivity, TüV certification to reduce eye fatigue, and an array of tilt-stand and mounting options.
Complement your purchase with these Lenovo accessories
Lenovo ThinkCentre 1L Tiny Dust Shield
ThinkCentre 1L Tiny Dust Shield is the perfect shield for your ThinkCentre Tiny systems, preventing dust and
keeping clean to your Tiny.
Lenovo 100 In-Ear Headphone-Black
The Lenovo 100 In-Ear Headphone is a half-in-ear headphone with an in-line mic that lets you switch seamlessly between music and calls. It provides premium design features such as mic and headphone noise isolation. It’s 9mm drivers deliver excellent sound quality every time. With 3 sizes of ear cups, users can enjoy long-lasting, all-day comfort. When they’re done listening, the headphone can be stored in the provided pouch.
Lenovo Premier Support
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“As a service” – in our digital age, pretty much anything and everything can come with those three words as a suffix, which is exactly why we have the term XaaS: the mysterious “X”-as-a-service!
But “everything” is the broadest of definitions, so here are 10 of the most important “aaS” offerings:
IaaS (Infrastructure)
One of the three main cloud computing services, IaaS allows you to hire basic computing infrastructure – such as servers, firewalls and data centers – from a cloud-computing service provider.
The main appeal is the ease of scalability – you only pay for what you need, for as long as you need it.
PaaS (Platform)
Second of the three main cloud services, PaaS takes the offerings of IaaS and goes one step further, providing services such as operating systems, development tools and database management.
The big advantage is allowing your business to grow without necessarily having to hire people with new IT skill sets – they’re provided for you.
SaaS (Software)
Third of the cloud services, SaaS incorporates the services of PaaS and IaaS and adds the cherry on top: hosted applications. A common example is email services, which are stored on your service provider’s network, but still host all your information and generally give you – and often your customers – access to top-notch online software.
DBaaS (Database)
In the age of big data, having a reliable database is critical for business. And a reliable database isn’t just one with minimal downtime – it must be easy to access and navigate.
DBaaS provides offsite storage for your data that’s simple to use and generally far cheaper than investing in equipment and infrastructure required.
DaaS (Desktop)
A form of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), DaaS delivers the full desktop suite to your device without having to individually purchase and install the suite of software and apps that most businesses require.
The big advantages include giving employees and contractors access from anywhere in the world, as well as built-in security and updates.
CaaS (Communication)
Communication is obviously critical in any business and is in a constant state of evolution – think email, instant messaging (IM), videoconferencing, your standard phone call, as well as voice over IP (VoIP).
With the range of tools always progressing, CaaS ensures you have both the software and hardware to stay at the cutting edge of communication.
HaaS (Hardware)
Similar to your traditional rental agreement, HaaS sees a business lease their hardware rather than purchase it, however it generally also comes with a guarantee from the vendor to maintain and update the hardware throughout the length of the agreement.
It can also be used remotely – for example, using storage hardware via the cloud.
SECaaS (Security)
Rather than having your IT department install, update and maintain your IT security – including antivirus software, firewalls and spam filters – SECaaS sees the full range of modern security provided over the web.
This means your security is overseen by a dedicated team, ensuring it is always up to date and keeping you and your precious data safe.
HaaS (Healthcare)
Healthcare is in the throes of a revolution, as mobile and teleconferencing tools make “seeing” a medical professional more convenient and less time-consuming.
Seen as a large part of the future of healthcare, HaaS is set to slash waiting times, as less urgent cases are seen to remotely – or even by a chatbot.
TaaS (Transportation)
The rise of rideshare platforms such as Uber, as well as the impending boom of autonomous vehicles, are fueling the rise of TaaS (although, as electric cars become more common, actual fuel is set to be a small part of the service).
It is anticipated that this will result in more users but far fewer vehicles on the road, as cars parked and sitting idle for hours at a time becomes a thing of the past.
The on-demand economy has seen users’ patience levels drop to an all-time low, meaning fast, reliable services delivered over the internet in real-time is no longer the future – it’s the present.
With that being the case, a firm understanding of the power and potential offered by XaaS is central to any business.
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The sleek design and powerful performance of the ThinkPad E595 take productivity a notch higher.
With up to AMD Ryzen™ 7 3700U Processors, high-speed memory, integrated AMD graphics, and optional dual-drive storage, this laptop lets you handle just about any business task.
Optimized for on-the-go professionals
Best Features
REMARKABLE PERFORMANCE
Up to AMD Ryzen™ 7 3700U Processors and super-fast DDR4 memory offer a powerful and responsive computing experience, ideal for handling multiple applications at the same time. The AMD integrated graphics card enables rich content creation while the optional dual-drive storage provides more room for multimedia files and software.
UNMATCHED RELIABILITY
With an all-day battery life backed by RapidCharge technology that charges the battery up to 80 percent in 60 minutes1, this device ensures there is enough power to last you through the workday—and beyond.
IMPROVED USER EXPERIENCE
The ergonomic backlit2 keyboard with number pad and precision touchpad makes it convenient to work in low-light environments. The optional full-HD IPS display reduces eye-strain while working for extended hours.
Ultimate reliability
Windows 10 Pro devices provide you the powerful essentials you need for your business PCs – more security features, enhanced control, and robust and innovative devices – and help stretch your resources to get more done.
ThinkPad E595 Specifications
PN: 20NF0018US
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro 64
Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
Memory: 1x 8GB DIMM DDR4-2400
Storage: 256GB SSD
Complement your purchase with these Lenovo accessories:
Lenovo Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo
ThinkPad USB C-Dock
Lenovo Premier Support
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The premium M920z is everything it promises to be — reliable, efficient, and secure. Boasting the latest 8th Generation Intel® Core™ vPro™ Processors and robust DDR4 memory, it can meet business needs and maximize productivity. Optional SSD or Intel® Optane™ memory via the PCIe slot enables users to handle large files, images, and videos with ease. Content creation or consumption is convenient and comfortable with the 23.8-inch full-HD borderless, anti-glare display. Secure business data with the embedded TPM 2.0 chip, BIOS-based Smart USB Protection, ThinkShutter camera cover, and facial recognition with Windows Hello and RGB IR camera
COMPETITIVE PERFORMANCE
The powerful 8th Generation Intel Core vPro Processor coupled with DDR4 Memory ensures that the M920z is no slouch when it comes to getting things done. The optional SSD or Intel Optane Memory allows the system to be responsive even when working on heavy files. And with a range of USB Ports, users can expand their capabilities and be more productive at work.
VERSATILE AND COMFORTABLE
Get 8 percent more space in comparison to non-borderless monitors with the 23.8-inch full-HD borderless M920z screen. The rotatable camera module provides users the flexibility for front and rear camera usage. The Intelligent Cooling Engine (ICE) 3.0 Plus ensures the reliability of the AIO by maintaining internal temperature when used for extended hours.
DATA AND DEVICE PROTECTION
The M920z AIO is armed with the Trusted Platform Module 2.0 chip that encrypts data and prevents malicious attackers from accessing sensitive information and passwords. No more using a post-it tape for privacy. Easily cover the camera with the ThinkShutter Camera Cover.
Ultimate reliability
Windows 10 Pro devices provide you the powerful essentials you need for your business PCs – more security features, enhanced control, and robust and innovative devices – and help stretch your resources to get more done.
ThinkCentre M920z AIO SPECIFICATIONS
$50 REBATE
PN: 10S6002CUS
- Operating System: Windows 10 Pro 64
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Memory: 8GB
Complement your purchase with these Lenovo accessories:
ThinkPad USB 3.0 Ultra Dock
The ThinkPad USB 3.0 Ultra Dock is a universal USB docking solution that not only delivers a premium display experience (up to 4K2K resolution via DP port), but also provides quick and easy connection to all of the workspace peripherals you use every day. The dock can also charge your mobile devices via two always-on USB ports. Dock requires AC power to operate.
Lenovo Pro Wired Stereo VoIP Headset
Today’s ever-changing workplaces demand dynamic devices. The Lenovo Pro Wired Stereo VoIP Headset is just that. In ‘work mode’ you’ll enjoy a Skype for Business certified noise-canceling microphone, crisp HD audio via USB, and in-line call control. In ‘play mode’ you’ll have easy 3.5 mm plug-and-play connectivity to any device and robust sound for your favorite tunes.
Lenovo Premier Support:
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Whether you are looking for general advice on upgrading your technology or optimizing your network, we are here to help.