What is the Role of RTP in VoIP
Real Time Transport Protocol (RTP) is used to facilitate real-time data transfer. It enables Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication by transporting data flow through two ports in real time.
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Protocol
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There are new ways to make a call. RTP is a protocol, which is a set of rules used to transfer data between computers or devices. VoIP uses a combination of protocols to transmit the phone data between computers or from a computer to a mobile or land-line phone.
Layers
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Imagine layers of protocol. VoIP data is changed from an analog signal to a digital signal. Layered protocols transfer, receive and interpret the signal. RTP is a part of the transport layer.
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UDP
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RTP works in conjunction with the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) to transfer the message. The UDP protocol is used in VoIP communications because it transfers data rapidly.
Packets
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Voice data is inserted into data packets using the RTP protocol. The RTP packets, enclosed inside the UDP packets, are then transmitted to the receiving instrument or computer.
Application Layer
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When the data packets reach the receiving computer, an application layer interprets the signal. The data is then presented to the user as a voice message through earphones or a USB telephone.
Other Protocols
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VoIP communications require the use of several protocols in order to provide clear communication. Some of these include Quality of Service protocols (QoS) and Session Initiation (SIP) protocols.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mark Kobayashi-Hillary Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Dan Brady Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Doug Wheller