VoIP telephony
VoIP telephony
UOL's telephone system is outdated and no longer state of the art. Nevertheless, new connections are constantly being added. The current telephone system (originally installed around 1997) can no longer reliably cope with this. The UOL telephone system needs to be modernised to ensure that employees can be reached without disruption. A modern modernisation means switching to VoIP telephony - i.e. telephoning via the Internet.
FAQ
The project to convert the telephone system and roll out VoIP telephony across the university is just picking up speed. We can already answer some questions and have listed them in the FAQ below. Over time, we will be able to refine the answers and add more questions.
VoIP in preparation
What is VoIP telephony? How does VoIP work? And what is the difference to the current telephone system?
VoIP stands for "Voice over Internet Protocol". Even though the name says "Internet Protocol", telephony connections within the University of Oldenburg remain in our campus network. Instead of using separate telephone lines (the current white telephones), telephones will only be connected to existing network sockets and can even share these with the computer.
The introduction of the new system will take this one step further. With so-called SoftPhone clients, which can be installed on almost all platforms, the new system enables us to make calls beyond the PC, laptop or SmartPhone, regardless of whether we are at university or at our home office workplace. All connection data is encrypted and transmitted from the user's end device to the IT services Data Centre, from where it finds its way to the desired connection partner.
Why make calls via VoIP? What advantages does VoIP offer?
The UOL telephone system is outdated and will soon no longer be able to be repaired. With VoIP, you can make calls via the Internet, regardless of location and very easily via work computer, tablet or smartphone. VoIP telephony simplifies telephony, especially for mobile work and increasingly flexible on-site workplaces. The sound quality of calls is better. The Cisco Call Manager also offers additional functions that Xpression does not.
Which VoIP system will the UOL use?
UOL uses a combination of Telekom and Cisco: German Telekom will remain our transfer point to the public telephone network even with the introduction of VoIP. Redundant connections in Wechloy and Haarentor ensure that telephone calls can continue to be received and set up even if one of the lines should fail.
The telephone system itself will be supplied by Cisco. Cisco is a well-known network equipment supplier and is also used, for example, by the Jade University of Applied Sciences and the University of Bremen.
A special feature of this solution is that we can completely dispense with a cloud solution. This means we can guarantee that internal calls do not leave our networks and are not routed via external Data Centres.
VoIP in transition
What else needs to be prepared?
Before employees can use the new system, we still have to make a number of software and hardware adjustments. We are also testing the stability of the system and setting up processes that will hopefully ensure that everything runs smoothly for the users. In addition, we still have to adapt all the processes in the telephony environment and involve the main users in the process.
VoIP in use / in everyday working life
Which telephone lines are involved?
It is essentially about the telephone connections of employees. Every employee is issued with a VoIP licence and can use VoIP telephony, whether via the Jabber softphone app on a laptop or a desk phone. Students and student assistants can use so-called "public area telephones" for business calls, but will not receive their own connection.
How do I make a call if the Internet / network connection is down?
If the local network connection is disrupted and your computer / laptop no longer has access to the services of the University of Oldenburg, the Jabber client or desk phone will also no longer work. However, the IT services have attached great importance to the redundancy of the systems during the design phase. For example, the function of the actual telephone system is split across several servers. Furthermore, we use separate Internet connections for incoming and outgoing telephony connections, which are only used for this purpose.
Will I get a new phone?
"Traditional" desk phones can be made available. However, we are enthusiastic about the flexibility of the Cisco Call Manager (app on existing end device). We therefore recommend that you try out using the app first. Desk phones are also available if required.
What is the Jabber client?
The Jabber Client is the app that allows you to make calls over the Internet without the need for a telephone. The app can be installed on computers, laptops, tablets or smartphones. The sound is output via the speakers and microphones of the end device or via a connected headset. The Jabber Client is operated via a user interface on the screen of the respective end device.
Who can explain the new features and operation to me?
We will provide you with the most important information at an early stage and also offer training courses.
Is there a new phone book? What happens with Find and Phone?
There will be a new phone book. Find and Phone will be replaced.
Will Xpression remain as an answering machine?
No, Openscape Xpression will be replaced. The answering machine is accessed later via the Jabber app.
Will VoIP telephony also be available to students?
No. Student assistants will have access to so-called "public area telephones" in group rooms or laboratories.
How can telephones be used in laboratories, workshops, group work rooms or warehouses?
Via the Jabber app, if a laptop or mobile device is available. Or via so-called "Public Area Telephones".