Remote Workers 1

[daveybc]

I know many have experience setting up remote workers at home and there is probably more than one way to achieve this, but what I would like hear is feedback on the best way to set them up. Currently these workers are using single line cordless phones (from local provider). We would be installing an Avaya IP Office using latest version software (9.x). We are considering switching them from PRI (Norstar) to SIP (Avaya) and consolidating the remote home office workers onto their system.

 

[AACon]

Probably simplest solution is to use softphones. Other solution would be to use VPN based IP phones, or hell, even the h323 remote worker, but those seem to have issues after a couple of users.
If you have the VPN hardware to support it, either give each user a site to site vpn and have the phone ride on it, or have the phones vpn in.

-Austin
ACE: Implement IP Office

 

[gwebster]

Whatever approach you use, your #1 task is to ensure that your IP Office system is protected from hackers.

 

[Westi]

VPN phones will ensure that you have no exposure to the outside that can be exploited (at least nothing you would need to make the phones work) and that is fairly easy to do.You can also just use Remote worker phones and open the ports for it as that will work as well but has no encryption for the voice.
I would just ensure that your 911 calls will be taken care of for your remote sites. There are lots of threads for that topic and I don't want to open that can of worms again.

Joe W.

FHandw, ACSS (SME), ACIS (SME)


“This is the end of the world, make sure to buy your T-shirt before it is too late"
Original expression of my daughter

 

[daveybc]

VPN is currently in place for all remote locations for data. However for the remote users that want to continue with a cordless option,I suppose replacing their analog cordless set with an IP version would be the answer! Any experience on cordless phones in a home office environment? Thanks for the comments. Dave.

 

[gwebster]

If the users have an IP phone in the office, then they will not be impressed with using even an IP cordless phone in the remote location due to difference in operation. You can still use an IP phone (over VPN) at home and add a DECT wireless headset. IP Phones like the 9608 support Electronic Hook Switch operation which will allow the user to walk around the remote location and still be able to answer calls.