HomeCLOUDvol. 1 no. 1 (2013)

A Comparative Study of Basic VOIP Infrastructure setup between Proprietary Devices and Open-Source Tools

Pink Eva B. Cabero | Sarah C. Dumagan | Mariel Dione M. Robles

 

Abstract:

This study focused on the comparison of basic VoIP infrastructure setup particularly between proprietary devices and open-sourced tools in terms of cost, equipment/technology, technical support, reliability and compatibility.

This is a qualitative/descriptive study. Interviews with four representatives from selected companies particularly those who implemented VOIP technology either with the use of proprietary device or open-sourced tools were conducted using interview guide questionnaire. It has been noted that technically, proprietary devices require the same set of equipments however; they differ in some features. The comparison revealed that proprietary devices are advantageous in terms of durability of the hardware, the provision of after-sales services, and its compatibility with other proprietary products. However, they are considered as expensive due to the licensing requirements, cases of erratic relay of data or information caused by excessive collision of network, its limited upgradable hardware feature and its compatibility to open-sourced device relies on the installation of additional gadget. The strengths of open-sourced tools are associated with lower cost due to no license fee required in using it and its compatibility with all generic and proprietary devices.