These security concerns are being addressed by service providers and equipment manufacturers to make VoIP calls secure and to give buyers peace of mind. Furthermore, as the broader issue of security on and over the Internet is being addressed by the industry, global standards bodies and governments, so we can expect positive impact in the issue of secure VoIP. Meanwhile, and even after these security enhancements become commonplace, businesses must take steps to secure their VoIP network, as they should secure any point of access to the business, its intellectual property and its data

Simple Steps For Network Security

VoIP networks are vulnerable to exactly the same security risks as traditional IP data networks and VoIP security needs to be at the same level. This is a relatively straightforward exercise for businesses that already operate secure IP networks.

Protecting VoIP Systems

Organizations should adopt a multi layer comprehensive security strategy. The network can be segmented into secure zones protected by a firewall, intrusion prevention should be added, as well as other layers of security. Although there is no such thing as totally secure IP network, a company can secure the voice network by putting in place layers of security to protect telephones, conversations, computers, and servers. A competent IT department, together with support from the VoIP service provider or solution reseller should be able to implement Authentication, control access (passwords and firewalls), encryption, an audit trail of calls and, where necessary, recording those calls.

Dont forget internal Security

Protection should of course also be put in place for internal traffic flowing over a VoIP system. An increasing number of workers use VoIP to communicate with company staff from wireless phones or soft phones. It is a sensible precaution to encrypt VoIP traffic moving internally over a corporate network to prevent attacks from insiders. The use of desktop-based soft phones to make and receive VoIP-based telephone calls can create a hole in firewall security. The best way to address this problem is to restrict access to the network. In addition, all inbound VoIP traffic that flows through a firewall should be routed through a proxy server, thus eliminating a direct connection to the Internet. Again, these are relatively simple and low cost steps to secure the network.

Peace of Mind With VoIP System

Many corporate users are discouraged from using VoIP systems as they feel they are not secure however, this is like saying it is not safe to use a computer on the internet. Securing VoIP systems is like securing any IP network. Just as you would look to set up protection on your PC including virus software, firewalls etc, so to do you need to protect a VoIP system in a similar fashion. VoIP can and is secure, providing certain security steps are taken. Security is not a server issue, it is a network issue.

Further information on the latest VoIP products news and for specific questions on securing a VoIP network contact us at http://www.vegastream.com.