Setup a small network or LAN for the VoIP Phones.
Familiarize yourself with the actual hardware before you begin supporting this equipment with clients.
Before You Begin:
Look at the pictures bellow for reference.
The Local Area Network (LAN) is a term used to describe all the equipment that is behind a modem that connects your network to the Internet. The specific equipment you will need will depend on the number of IP phones at your location, and the number of devices on your network such as computers, servers and network printers. The equipment listed below is typically used in a LAN.
Modem:
A device that connects to the data connection provided by your Internet service provider. Other network devices such as a router are connected behind the modem. Please do not use a combo modem/router. These devices can cause audio issues. If you have a combo unit, please contact the ISP to request a standalone modem. Resources – All Carrier or ISP Phone Numbers for CEG Support
Router:
A router is a device that routes or splits your Internet connection among multiple devices. A router is an “intelligent” device. It can divide your connection differently depending on how it is configured. Routers commonly have four ports to allow up to 4 separate device connections. If more than 4 ports are needed, a Switch is recommended. Do not use a combo modem/router unit or you may experience audio issues. 8×8 recommends you use a router with QoS settings that can be set to prioritize voice traffic over data traffic.
Switch:
A pass through device that splits your Internet connection among multiple devices. Switches are capable of extending your network to accommodate an additional 4 to 24 devices.
8×8 Phones or Adapters:
IP Phones purchased from 8×8 or analog phone adapters (ATAs). (An ATA is used to connect a standard (analog) phone or fax machine to 8×8 service through your Internet connection.)
Other devices:
Other connecting devices such as computers, servers and network printers.
Setting Up Your Network:
- Connect the router directly to the modem that provides your Internet access.
- Connect the 8×8 phones directly to your router, or connect your 8×8 phones to the router using a switch.
- Always connect the LAN devices to your high-speed switch (local printers, file servers, etc.) rather than directly to your router.
Resources:
Resource – Equipment – Router Configuration D-Link
DIR-655 Emulator for CEG Support Staff
Click on picture to go to emulator for the D-Link 655