Cisco gets into IP telephony

Networking giant Cisco Systems has unveiled a new internet protocol telephony product in its voice, video and integrated data range.

Networking giant Cisco Systems has unveiled a new Internet protocol (IP) telephony product in its voice, video and integrated data range.

It allows IP services in branch offices to be remotely managed, reducing technical and support demands.

Cisco's integrated communications system (ICS) 7750 uses Windows 2000 and supports all types of application programming interface standards. It will be available to businesses from next month.

"It's targeted at these enterprise branch offices that require high levels of availability and fault tolerance. It can provide them with the same look and feel as larger companies," claimed Chris Haslam, IP telephony marketing manager for small and medium-sized businesses at Cisco.

Analysts have predicted that the IP telephony market will take off in a big way, but feel that some companies may be quicker to adopt the changes than others.

Stewart Anderton, group consulting director for technologies and networks at analyst Ovum, believes that, as with any new technology, initial uptake will be subject to factors such as quality and reliability of service, cost, and integration capabilities.

"There is no doubt in my mind that IP telephony will become the predominant form of carrier for voice traffic. In general, an evolutionary approach for those who already have infrastructure is often more attractive," he said.

Cisco maintains that the initial outlay of at least $765 per user is cost-effective for offices with more than 20 users.