What is SIP ALG?
SIP ALG (Application Layer Gateway) is a feature included in some routers and firewalls. It's intended to help with NAT traversal (allowing devices behind a router to communicate with the outside internet).
Why SIP ALG is problematic for VoIP
Although well-intentioned, SIP ALG implementations on many routers are flawed. They attempt to modify SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) packets, which are essential for setting up and managing VoIP calls. This modification by SIP ALG often breaks core VoIP functionality, leading to issues such as:
One-way audio (you can hear but not be heard, or vice-versa)
Dropped calls
Registration problems (phones unable to connect to the VoIP service)
Inability to call certain...