What does a jitter buffer do in a VoIP stream?

What does a jitter buffer do in a VoIP stream?

• A. Encrypts the payload for security
• B. Synchronizes audio and video streams
• C. Smooths variable packet arrival times to reduce gaps and distortion
• D. Changes the codec in use

Answer: (C)

Jitter in a VoIP stream happens when packets arrive at uneven times, creating gaps and distortion in the audio. A jitter buffer addresses this by temporarily storing arriving packets and releasing them at regular, even intervals. This smoothing effect reduces audible gaps and distortion, giving a more continuous playback. The buffer can be fixed in size or adaptive, growing or shrinking based on current network jitter to balance latency against packet loss. It doesn’t encrypt payloads, doesn’t handle AV synchronization, and doesn’t change the codec being used.

Jitter in a VoIP stream happens when packets arrive at uneven times, creating gaps and distortion in the audio. A jitter buffer addresses this by temporarily storing arriving packets and releasing them at regular, even intervals. This smoothing effect reduces audible gaps and distortion, giving a more continuous playback. The buffer can be fixed in size or adaptive, growing or shrinking based on current network jitter to balance latency against packet loss. It doesn’t encrypt payloads, doesn’t handle AV synchronization, and doesn’t change the codec being used.