VoIP and SIP – What's the difference?

VoIP and SIP are two terms often used in relation to internet telephony. But what do they actually mean, and are they the same thing?

VoIP stands for “Voice over Internet Protocol” and refers to the transmission of voice over the internet or other IP-based networks. It allows for the transmission of voice and multimedia data over the internet and provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional telephone networks. Businesses and individuals can make phone calls over the internet and save money.

SIP stands for “Session Initiation Protocol” and is a protocol used to control communication sessions such as voice and video calls over IP networks. It is an important component of VoIP systems as it allows for the setup, management, and termination of calls. SIP is typically mentioned with VoIP, as it plays an essential role in the transmission of voice and multimedia data over the internet.

Although SIP is closely related to VoIP and is typically used in VoIP systems, they are not the same thing. VoIP refers to the transmission of voice over IP networks, while SIP is a protocol that allows for the control of communication sessions. However, SIP is a significant component of VoIP systems as it allows for the setup, management, and termination of calls.

In summary, it can be said that VoIP and SIP are closely related but do not mean the same thing. VoIP allows for the transmission of voice over IP networks, while SIP is a protocol that allows for the control of communication sessions. Businesses and individuals can benefit from both technologies and make phone calls cost-effectively and flexibly.

All telephony and products such as Virtual-Call's Cloud PBX, SIP Trunk and VoIP Termination are based on the SIP protocol.