At Intouch Communications, one of the most common questions we hear is, “What is VoIP?” As businesses increasingly adopt hosted VoIP for their telecommunications, understanding these acronyms has never been more important. Like any industry, telecoms come with their own jargon, and we’re here to simplify it for you. Below, we’ve broken down the most frequently asked-about acronyms, so you can confidently navigate the world of modern telecommunications.

What is VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. It may sound technical, but it simply refers to the technology that enables voice calls to be transmitted over the internet. This includes wireless communication via WiFi or mobile internet. Unlike traditional phone lines, VoIP makes it possible to make internet-based calls without additional hardware, offering enhanced features and greater flexibility for businesses.

What is SIP?

SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol, which is essentially the "language" that VoIP devices use to communicate. SIP handles the exchange of information between devices, ensuring they can connect and understand each other during calls. While it can be complex, it’s an essential part of how VoIP systems work behind the scenes.

What is ITSP?

ITSP stands for Internet Telephony Service Provider. This is the service provider that delivers VoIP telephony to your business. ITSPs supply the equipment and services required for internet phone calls, making them an essential link between your business and VoIP technology. Simply put, they ensure your internet-based communications run smoothly.

What is PBX?

PBX stands for Private Branch Exchange, which is a phone system used by businesses to manage internal and external calls. PBX systems can include both hardware and software and are responsible for routing incoming calls to the right departments or extensions. Modern PBX systems often integrate with VoIP, offering advanced features like call queuing, voicemail, and conferencing.

What is PSTN?

PSTN stands for Public Switched Telephone Network. This is the global infrastructure of traditional landline telephony. It’s what connects landline calls, VoIP calls, and mobile calls across the world. While PSTN has been the backbone of telecommunications for decades, it’s being gradually phased out in favour of internet-based solutions like VoIP.

Why These Acronyms Matter in 2025

As businesses continue to adopt VoIP and modern telecom systems, understanding these acronyms is essential for making informed decisions. With the UK moving away from PSTN services entirely by the end of 2025, transitioning to VoIP and related technologies has become critical.

Next time you hear someone mention needing a system for internet-based calls, you’ll know they need a reliable ITSP and that VoIP is the way forward.

How We Can Help

At Intouch Communications, we provide expert guidance and high-quality telecom solutions tailored to your business. If you have questions about VoIP, PBX, or any other telecom acronyms, our team is here to help.

Contact us via our enquiry form or call us on 01252 241000 today to learn more and make the switch to modern telecommunications with confidence.