There was a time when the big telcos saw VoIP coming down the road, saw it as a competitor, and tried to squash it like a bug. But then VoIP became so big, the prevailing telco wisdom became, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.” And it’s good advice for any big telco–you’re not going to make big bucks selling long distance over the PSTN any more. Yes, it was fun while it lasted, but that gravy train has left the station. Telcos that want to protect their futures are bringing VoIP into the fold.
AT&T gave some good news to users of its VPN services this week. VPN customers are now able to add VoIP service to network solutions delivered over AT&T’s global network cloud.
This is no small thing, and the offering really highlights what the VoIP revolution is all about–and sets the stage for the direction the entire industry is taking. Customers will be able to consolidate separate voice and data networks and use a common infrastructure. Still running separate voice and data networks? What’s the point? Get with the times! More business customers are demanding, and receiving from their providers, a single integrated platform for voice, data, and video.
The telecom giant’s VoIP portfolio is interoperable with most IP-PBX systems and paves the way for unified communications. AT&T offers a good selection of VoIP services, including AT&T IP Flexible Reach (SIP trunking), and AT&T Voice DNA (hosted service). AT&T’s VoIP calling plans include both unlimited and on-net long distance, and off-net international calling, with a good selection of features and management functions.
