SBC, Lucent Partner for VoIP Solution

May 29, 2002 -- (WEB HOST INDUSTRY REVIEW) -- Communications service provider SBC Communications Inc. (SBC.com) announced on Tuesday that it has introduced a new IP telephony solution in conjunction with communications equipment developer Lucent Technologies (Lucent.com), designed to allow businesses to use Voice over IP without having to invest in new equipment.

Delivered as an outsourced, central-office based service, say the companies, the new telephony service is a way for businesses to migrate to VoIP communication without investing in and maintaining telecommunications equipment or dealing with the implementation or replacement of solutions.

While VoIP technology is a growing alternative to traditional communications networks, the solutions are usually implemented and managed by companies on their own data networks. Because SBC’s solution is monitored and maintained in the service provider’s central office, business telephone systems are protected against potential disasters and can take advantage of increased levels of physical and network security.

As part of a multiyear deal with Lucent, SBC will deliver the SBC Centrix IP service, based on Lucent IP Centrix technology, as part of a suite of services including VoIP calling, DSL access, Web-enabled services and caller display information.

"This agreement with SBC is a significant milestone in the evolution of circuit-to-packet technology," says Janet Davidson, president, Integrated Network Solutions for Lucent. "We are excited to support SBC as it expands the capabilities of its existing network to allow businesses access to cost-efficient, reliable and secure Centrex services."

The companies have tested the technology in a trial supporting more than 1,600 stations used by Lucent employees, and say that the Centrix service can support IP telephony for a customer with up to four satellite offices.