How to Test a VoIP Line

You need an Internet connection to make a VoIP call.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) allows phone calls to be made from computer to computer, or from computer to phone, via the Internet. Several websites provide free tests to measure your Internet connection performance to ensure you get quality calls with your VoIP service. The typical VoIP service also offers free connection and voice test features to determine whether your line and phone for VoIP use meet the requirements for quality calling.

Instructions

1. Select a VoIP-testing site on the Internet to check your line. Aside from readily available ones online, you may contact your VoIP provider for their recommended testing site, which can be their own or a reliable third-party site.

   Since the connection is highly dependent on the efficiency of the bandwidth available for the connection and the transmission speed of data packets to your services gateway, testing your Internet connection is essential for knowing how to start troubleshooting any connection problem. If you're experiencing slow Internet connection, you may experience intermittent call dropping or static during a VoIP call.

2. Click the "Test" button of your selected VoIP-testing site and wait for the process to finish. This takes anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. Generally, the site will show a performance summary where your Internet performance is measured in Kbps (kilobits per second) or Mbps (megabits per second). The site will calculate variability of the upload and download rates and the overall loss rate. Technically, the upload rate is more important with VoIP calls. Packet loss rate higher than 0.5 percent will result to a noticeable VoIP call connection problem. If the loss rate is higher than 1 percent, the VoIP call will be dropped.

3. Make an "Echo Test" or "Voice Test" with your VoIP service to see if your VoIP phone is working properly. This feature generally requires you to press the "Echo Test" button, then you will call a number and hear a voice prompt stating that you are about to conduct a test call.

   The process works by calling a default number meant for testing the VoIP phone, then after the announcement, you have to speak for a few seconds after hearing the tone. Once done with a few sentences (ideally for 5 to 10 seconds), you end the call based on the instructions coming from the voice prompt. After this, your recorded message is repeated back to you. Your recorded voice quality refers to the actual type of call reception you will get for any VoIP call you make.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have good Internet connection and the echo or voice test is fine, but you still encounter problems with your VoIP call, check your computer's firewall settings to see if it is blocking the VoIP connection.

References

• Bandwidth: VoIP Test
• Visualware: MyConnection Server v9 New Features
• inPhonex: Internet Speed Test -- VoIP Service Test
• VoIP Review: VoIP Speed Test - Test your Internet Connection Speed
• VoIP-Why: How Do I Test My VOIP Telephone to Check if It Works Properly?

Resources

• VoIP Review: Real Value of Business VoIP Phone Service
• VoIP Review: Business VoIP
• VoIP Review: 8 Things You Need to Know About Setting Up Small Business VoIP