What Networking Protocols Are Used?, System Guide

Chapter 1 An Overview of the Cisco Unified IP Phone

What Networking Protocols Are Used?

Cisco Unified IP Phones support several industry-standard and Cisco networking protocols required for voice communication. Table 1-1provides an overview of the networking protocols that the

Cisco Unified IP Phones 7960G and 7940G support.

Table 1-1	Supported Networking Protocols on the Cisco Unified IP Phone

Networking Protocol		Purpose	Usage Notes

Bootstrap Protocol		BootP enables a network device such as the	If you are using BootP to assign IP addresses to
(BootP)		Cisco Unified IP Phone to discover certain	the Cisco Unified IP Phone, the BOOTP Server
		startup information, such as its IP address.	option shows “Yes” in the network configuration
			settings on the phone.

Cisco Discovery		CDP is a device-discovery protocol that runs on	The Cisco Unified IP Phone uses CDP to
Protocol (CDP)		all Cisco-manufactured equipment.	communicate information such as auxiliary VLAN
		Using CDP, a device can advertise its existence to	ID, per port power management details, and
		other devices and receive information about	Quality of Service (QoS) configuration
		other devices and receive information about	information with the Cisco Catalyst switch.
		other devices in the network.	information with the Cisco Catalyst switch.
		other devices in the network.

Dynamic Host		DHCP dynamically allocates and assigns an IP	DHCP is enabled by default. If disabled, you
Configuration Protocol		address to network devices.	must manually configure the IP address, subnet
(DHCP)		DHCP enables you to connect an IP phone into	mask, gateway, and a TFTP server on each phone
		DHCP enables you to connect an IP phone into	locally.
		the network and have it become operational	locally.
		the network and have it become operational
		without you needing to manually assign an IP	Cisco recommends that you use DHCP custom
		address or configure additional required network	option 150. With this method, you configure the
		parameters.	TFTP server IP address as the option value. For
			additional supported DHCP configurations,
			refer Cisco Unified Communications Manager
			System Guide.

Hypertext Transfer		HTTP is the standard way of transferring	Cisco Unified IP Phones use HTTP for the XML
Protocol (HTTP)		information and moving documents across the	services and for troubleshooting purposes.
		Internet and the web.

Internet Protocol (IP)		IP is a messaging protocol that addresses and	To communicate using IP, network devices must
		sends packets across the network.	have an assigned IP address, subnet, and
			gateway.
			IP addresses, subnets, and gateways
			identifications are automatically assigned if you
			are using the Cisco Unified IP Phone with
			Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP).
			If you are not using DHCP, you must manually
			assign these properties to each phone locally.

Real-Time Transport		RTP is a standard protocol for transporting	Cisco Unified IP Phones use the RTP protocol to
(RTP)		real-time data, such as interactive voice and	send and receive real-time voice traffic from
		video, over data networks.	other phones and gateways.

Session Initiation		SIP is an emerging standard for setting up	Cisco Unified IP Phones use SCCP for call
Protocol (SIP)		telephone calls, multimedia conferencing, and	control. You can configure the Cisco Unified IP
		other types of communications on the Internet.	Phone to use either SCCP or SIP.

Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G/7940G Administration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager 7.0 (SCCP)

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7960G, 7940G specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in creating innovative networking and communication solutions. Among their range of Voice over IP (VoIP) phones, the Cisco 7960G and 7940G stand out as robust, versatile devices that cater to the needs of modern businesses. Released in the early 2000s, these models respectively combine functionality, ease of use, and key features tailored for effective communication.

The Cisco 7960G is a high-end model designed for users who demand advanced features and functionalities. It comes with a large backlit LCD display that not only enhances visibility but also provides easy navigation through various options. The phone supports up to six lines, allowing users to manage multiple calls effortlessly. Its user-friendly interface includes programmable feature buttons and a 10/100 Ethernet switch, enabling seamless integration into existing networks.

On the other hand, the Cisco 7940G is a more basic model designed for users who require essential features for their business communications. It includes a monochrome LCD screen and supports a maximum of two lines. Despite its simplicity, the 7940G is equipped with several key features such as integrated speakerphone and mute options, making it ideal for day-to-day communication needs. Both models support Power over Ethernet (PoE), eliminating the need for separate power adapters and ensuring a cleaner, more organized workspace.

In terms of technologies, both the 7960G and 7940G leverage the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) for signaling and media exchange. They also support secure communication through protocols like Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS). This ensures that businesses can engage in confidential conversations without the risk of interception.

The characteristics that make these models appealing include durability, ease of configuration, and reliability. Organizations can benefit from Cisco’s reliable support and regular updates, ensuring that their communication infrastructure remains robust and secure. With features designed for scalability, both phones can easily integrate into larger systems while maintaining high call quality.

In summary, Cisco’s 7960G and 7940G VoIP phones are exemplary devices that cater to a variety of business communication scenarios. With their blend of functionality, support for essential technologies, and reliable performance, they continue to serve organizations effectively in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether used in a bustling office or as part of a dynamic telecommunications strategy, these models offer excellent value and performance.

Cisco Systems 7960G What Networking Protocols Are Used?, Networking Protocol Purpose Usage Notes

Models: 7960G 7940G

What Networking Protocols Are Used?

Networking Protocol

Purpose

Usage Notes

(DHCP)

refer Cisco Unified Communications Manager

System Guide.

(RTP)

7960G, 7940G specifications