NCJ Number
213330
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2006 Pages: 22,24,26,27
Date Published
January 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features of Internet Protocol (IP) telephony and its potential benefits for interagency communications.
Abstract
IP telephony is a collection of new communication technologies, products, and services that can facilitate communication across diverse systems. Voice over IP (VoIP) is a subset of IP telephony. VoIP is a set of software, hardware, and standards designed to enable voice transmissions over packet-switched networks, which can be either an internal Local Area Network or the Internet. VoIP is not associated with a physical telephone line, but rather with an IP address that is linked to a phone number. This means that an IP phone can be moved to various points of connection on an IP network and retain its network ID. Thus, workers in the field with IP phones can link to agency communications. Many IP phones contain built-in firewalls that provide security for data and voice communications. This technology allows geographically separated users to communicate and share documents as if they were in the same conference room. A converged IP communications infrastructure is also ideal for video conferencing. Because the video runs on the same IP infrastructure as voice and data, there are no additional networking costs. A video call can be handled just like a voice call; it can be placed on hold, transferred, and be made available to additional participants. Cost savings come from reduced networking costs, free or reduced long-distance charges, the elimination of expensive audio and video conferencing, lower real estate costs, lower travel costs, and other operational efficiency. Steps are outlined for essential predeployment considerations and ensuring a secure use of VoIP.