When IP endpoints are connected through more than one network region, each region must use the same codec. A codec is the circuitry that converts an audio signal into the digital equivalent and assigns companding properties. Packet delays occur when different codecs are used within the same network region. In this case, the G4xx Media Gateway or Avaya Aura® Media Server acts as a gateway translating the different codecs, and an IP-direct or shuffled connection is not possible.