In this article, we examine the benefits and drawbacks of two "technologies". VPN and VoIP. VPN technology allows us to use the Internet so that we can be a member of a remote network with ease. It also offers security algorithms (security protocols). VoIP on the other hand, allows us to use the Internet in order to make phone or video calls without expense, by using our Internet access. We can also combine these two technologies in order to enjoy their benefits in our everyday lives.

VPN
Overview: VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. By using VPN technology, we can create a secure tunnel by networking two or more remote sites. This will allow you to transfer data by employing secure (encrypted) protocols.There are several secure protocols that can be employed on a VPN connection such as the PPTP. the L2TP and the OpenVPN. The selection of one of these protocols is based on the Operating System that is installed on our VPN-capable devices. Not all protocols are compatible with all devices. For example OpenVPN is not compatible with IOS (by Apple), thus our IPhones and IPads can not be members of a VPN which uses OpenVPN. Also, each VPN protocol supports a different set of encryption levels. Others are easier to set-up and others are not currently stable if your devices do not meet certain technical specifications.
Benefits:

»No need to lease long-distance lines (where access to the Internet is available).

»Long-distance telephone charges are not mandatory (where access to the Internet is available).

»Depending on the network infrastructure, maintenance costs are reduced.

Drawbacks:

»Depending on the quality of your service provider, VPN can have its drawbacks in terms of downtime. You need to choose a provider which guarantees minimal downtime.

»The design and security implementation of a VPN can become very complex. You need to hire a professional in order to choose which configuration is optimal for your equipment and needs.

»Products that are manufactured by different vendors may give you a headache with compatibility.

»By choosing the same vendor for all of your products, you can expect a higher cost sometimes.

»There usually is an overhead on the connection. This is dependent on the security protocol that is involved in a VPN environment. Usually not noticeable.

VoIP
Overview: VoIP stands for Voice Over IP. This technology is used for transmitting mainly voice and multimedia sessions over your Internet Protocol (IP). You need to have appropriate equipment on both (if not more) ends, compatible with each other, in order to achieve a VoIP session. Again, a number of protocols can be employed, such as SIP, MGCP, RVP over IP. Please note that whichever protocol is about to be used, it has to be compatible with all your VoIP enabled devices. Quality of Service (QOS) should also be properly configured on your gateway / router so that you can experience an almost perfect VoIP session.
Benefits:

»Reduce your phone calls to a minimum.

»Can be achieved by employing cheap hardware and software.

»Phone Portability at a low cost: Move your VoIP device anywhere you want (where access to the Internet is available) without paying roaming charges.

Drawbacks:

»Voice Quality is not that good sometimes (depending on a lot of factors, such as the protocol, bandwidth etc.)

»Dependent on BroadBand Connection. If your connection is down, so is your VoIP session.

»VoIP is only allocated a certain amount of bandwidth. If in your network, other users are downloading software / media, you may experience a loss in the quality of your session. This factor is also capable of causing your VoIP session to drop.

Why use VPN with VoIP
For obvious reasons, someone would choose to initiate a VoIP session through VPN to address security issues. With the employment of a VPN protocol your session is transmitted encrypted. Another reason is that SIP, a widely used VoIP protocol is difficult in bypassing through a firewall due to the fact that it uses random ports in order to connect.
So, in order to establish an encrypted VoIP session and to reduce connection issues, we advise you to establish a VPN connection first to your VoIP provider. Your business or home equipment can also become your VoIP provider. This will allow you to call family or friends by using your business's / home's landline, while you are abroad. In this way, you can avoid paying unnecessary roaming charges at your mobile phone's bill. Did you know that most of Android and IOS devices are VPN and VoIP capable?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8015809