How Does Jitter Impact Voice Calls

Jitter refers to the variability in the delay of received packets in a voice communication setup. In Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and other digital voice call systems, the consistency of packet delivery is crucial. Jitter can disrupt this consistency, leading to diminished call quality. Jitter on voice traffic should not exceed 30 milliseconds for the highest quality.

Symptom

Users might experience:

• Broken or choppy audio.
• Dropped calls.
• Echoes or repeated sounds.
• Moments of silence or audio delays.

Applies To

• Voice API
• Vonage Contact Center

Resolution

Check the local area and wide area network connections and consider using the tips below:

1. Use a Wired Connection: Where possible, use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to stabilize your internet connection.
2. Enhance Bandwidth: Upgrade to a higher-speed internet connection or ensure other devices aren't consuming excessive bandwidth.
3. Prioritize Voice Traffic: Implement Quality of Service (QoS) settings in your router to give priority to voice traffic.
4. Use Jitter Buffers: Most VoIP systems come equipped with jitter buffers that temporarily store incoming packets to ensure they're delivered in the correct order.
5. Opt for a Stable ISP: Choose an internet service provider known for reliability and consistent service.

Cause

Jitter is primarily caused by network congestion, bandwidth fluctuations, or other interruptions in the data flow. In voice calls, data is sent as packets. If these packets don't arrive at regular intervals, the consistency of the call's audio can be affected.