# What are the basic requirements for using sipgate?

sipgate's landline service is VoIP-based, but what does that really mean, and what are the requirements? Voice over IP (VoIP) means you make calls via your internet connection instead of using a traditional analog phone line. VoIP refers to transmitting voice data over the internet instead of through conventional phone networks, like ISDN.

#### Internet

The first requirement is a broadband internet connection from a provider of your choice, such as Deutsche Telekom, 1&1, or Vodafone. Speed is key: a single call over the internet requires around 100 kbit/s for both upload and download. This ensures clear voice quality. A low bandwidth can cause dropouts.

**Example**: With a standard DSL connection of 16,000 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload, you can handle up to 10 simultaneous calls.

#### Devices and Softphones

How you choose to make calls is up to you. Want a "real" phone on your desk? Then VoIP phones from snom, Gigaset, Grandstream, and other brands are a good choice. These can be easily connected to your sipgate account. You'll find configuration guides on our website. Alternatively, you can keep using your existing analog phones by connecting them to a VoIP adapter, such as a VoIP-enabled Fritz!Box. Another option is softphones, which are software programs that let you make calls directly from your computer—ideally with a headset. You can choose a softphone from a third-party provider or use the free sipgate softphone.

![](https://1449431311-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FftdJXe39x3wvuZjiDFLY%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-59b1c35dc8404d87f4d78881ebd4945699814b1e%2FGrundvoraussetzung.jpg?alt=media)

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Tip:** You can set up both a VoIP phone and a softphone at the same time. A typical setup: use the VoIP phone at the office and the softphone on your laptop when working from home, while staying reachable on the same phone number for both incoming and outgoing calls.
{% endhint %}

#### Firewalls and Routers – What should you consider?

When using a router with a firewall, make sure the firewall allows all the necessary ports for internet telephony. This is essential to avoid connection issues.

#### sipgate base plan overview

Explore the details of sipgate's plans and pricing:

* **Monthly base price**: [View all plans here](https://www.sipgateteam.co.uk/plans)
* **Outbound call rates**: [Check per-minute rates here](https://www.sipgateteam.co.uk/plans/call-rates)

**Important Notes**

* **International phone numbers** support up to 4 simultaneous calls.
* Each user is supported with:
  * **2 concurrent VoIP phone calls**
  * **2 simultaneous VoIP phone/device registrations**
  * **2 external telephones/endpoints** (non-sipgate numbers).
* The service supports multiple **validated Emergency Addresses** for UK 999 Emergency Services, without limiting the number of locations from which the service can be accessed.


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