VoIP glossary - I
The HipTel VoIP dictionary (VoIP glossary) was created to help our users understand common VoIP terminology. Use the search feature to look up VoIP terms, or look up terms alphabetically. Have a question, still unsure what something means? Feel free to
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IEEE 802.16 — In 1999 the IEEE Standards Board foresaw the upcoming capabilities of wireless broadband technology. To ensure its survival and ability to remain consistent throughout the world 802.16 was set as the standard for wireless broadband technology. 802.16 includes an entire group of standards including 802.16f — 802.16k. Initially it was referred to as WirelessMAN but later changed to WiMax technology.
Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC) — In 1974 the U. S. Department of Justice filed an anti trust suit against AT&T for operating as a telephone monopoly. AT&T and other circuit switched telephone network operators co-branded their affiliations with each other under the name Bell System. In 1984 the Bell System was broken up into Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOCs). ILEC refers to local telephone company that were in existence at the time of the Bell System break up, meaning the Baby Bells. ILECs now compete in an over saturated market against many CLECs.
Internet Protocol (IP) — Is a set of standard for the ways in which data is sent from one computer to another across a packet switched network, known as the Internet. Each computer has its own unique IP address, which is Internet’s way of identifying and finding your computer; similar to your home address.
Integrated Lines — A high-speed fiber optic cable that carriers a mix of data and telephone lines. Integrated lines can be purchased on T1 and faster connections. They are ideal for companies requiring high bandwidth for both phone and Internet capabilities.
IP Telephony — Is the process of transferring voice data over the public Internet. IP telephony is a more efficient, low cost way of communicating with others. Over the next few years, analysts predict that the IP telephony market will increase exponentially. There are a variety of different industry terms for IP telephony, such as: Broadband Phone, VoIP, Internet Telephony, Broadband Telephony, Digital Phone, etc.
Internet Service Provider (ISP) — A business that provides access to the Internet. During the time of dial up there were hundreds of ISPs, but as broadband internet has increased popularity it has created a high cost entrance barrier for many ISPs. As a result, many still offer dial up access, have turned to DSL lines or removed themselves from the business.
