how does voip work with routers?

[randomint]

is it just a matter of connecting the voip adapter/hub to the router just like you would a computer?

is it secure because i've heard most voip providers don't use encryption.

 

[Reel]

I have mine connected behind my router just like a computer. It works fine. I did use QoS to ensure bandwidth for the VoIP device though.

I would never consider any phone secure aside from those military grade fully controlled phone systems. Normal consumer grade phones (cell phones and land lines) are typically insecure from a variety of points.

 

[SSSnail]

Skype is end to end encrypted.

 

[randomint]

thanks for the responses.

one more question: would voip be ok with a 750kbps connection. it's not exactly near the high end as far as broadband goes.

 

[SSSnail]

Depen s on the con ection, you s ould be perfe tly fine.

 

[Reel]

Originally posted by: randomint
thanks for the responses.

one more question: would voip be ok with a 750kbps connection. it's not exactly near the high end as far as broadband goes.

The bandwidth necessary depends on the carrier. Some offer compression algorithms to reduce that. I don't remember a ballpark figure for the numbers though to give you. I use a cable connection with about 400 kbps upstream if I remember correctly.

 

[Goosemaster]

The bandwidth usually isn't the issue. It's guaranteeing that bandwidth. IF you start using bittorrent or uploading a lot whilst making phone calls and don't have a great router expect bad things.

 

[Goosemaster]

short answer:

because your router's NAT blocks all unsolicited traffic, the VoIP adapter simply keeps a connection with the provider open indefinitely.