GazGuzla

In this example, we configure a NETGEAR SPH200D Dual Mode Skype Phone for optimal voice quality, using a Buffalo WHR-G125 Router flashed with Tomato Firmware. Your configuration may be different, but the concept is the same:

1) Configure Base Station

The Base Station has a Administrative Login. Use the IP address assigned by the router ( Example: http://192.168.1.148). The default User Name is “admin”, the default Password is “password”.

Below is a view after login (defaults to System Information):

• Verify your Firmware Version is the latest. For the SPH200D check here. Download the newer version to your desktop.
• Click on the “System” page. Upgrade the new firmware to the NETGEAR base station, click upgrade, do not interrupt this step! After rebooting move to the next step
• Click on the “Network” page. Verify that your Ethernet link speed is set to “Auto (default is 10mb).
• Using your Hand Set, go to Menu–>Settings–>Advanced–>App. Port. Write that number down for the next step.

Without port forwarding the phones default “App Port” at the router, the phone will use the Web Ports. This can be problematic with problems like short or no rings, problems with connecting and making calls. You can see this setting under “Alternate Ports”. (leave it default just in case)

2) Configure Port Forwarding

After logging in to your router:

• Select “port triggering”.
• Add the port from the handset. You can also use “port forwarding” with src/dst set, if you prefer.

3) Configure QoS

• Select QoS Settings. This may be the most important step of all.
• You need to create a “rule” that gives highest priority to the MAC or IP address of the phone, and depending on the firmware, assign a bandwidth “limit”. Here is and example on a router running Tomato Firmware:

Without QoS, you will experience poor voice quality including echos, and digital noises.

There can be other steps when configuring QoS depending on the firmware. If the router the Skype Dual Phone connects to doesn’t have QoS, you may want to consider a router or firmware change. Read the GazGuzla Choosing a Home Router Article. Review Current Router prices Here. Current Skype Dual Phone prices can be found Here.