What is a codec in cloud based telephony?
A codec, short for coder decoder, is a technology that compresses and decompresses digital audio or video. Within UCaaS, codecs convert voice calls into data packets that can be sent over the internet, and then back into audible sound for the receiver.
Common voice codecs include:
- G.711, uncompressed audio with high quality but needs more bandwidth.
- G.729, compresses the audio and saves bandwidth but with slightly lower quality.
- Opus, a flexible codec that adapts to network quality and is often used in modern solutions such as WebRTC.
The choice of codec affects call quality, latency and how well features such as call recording, transcription and noise reduction work.
How lynes ensures good call quality
At lynes, codec handling happens automatically in the background. Whether you call over wifi or mobile data, the most suitable codec is chosen for clear and stable sound, without you having to think about it. That gives high quality calls with minimal latency, even in demanding network environments.
Frequently asked questions about codecs
What does codec mean?
Codec stands for coder decoder and is a technology that encodes and decodes audio or video.
Which codec gives the best sound quality?
G.711 gives high quality but needs more bandwidth, while Opus adapts to the network and often gives the best balance.
Does the codec affect call quality?
Yes. The codec determines both sound quality and latency, especially on a weak connection.
Do I need to choose a codec myself?
No. At lynes the right codec is chosen automatically based on your connection.
Want to know more about how lynes handles calls? Explore our call features or contact us for a demo.












