VoIP Monitor - VoIP Providers|Verizon

Verizon Expands VoIP Services in Asia-Pacific

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:26:26 GMT

Verizon has expanded its VoIP service within the Asia-Pacific region, enabling multinational companies in key commercial hubs across the region to take advantage of a wide range of the latest unified communications and collaboration applications to help increase productivity and efficiency.

By leveraging Verizon's expansive global IP network and feature-rich architecture, the VoIP solution offers customers in Australia, Hong Kong, India and Singapore access to applications including social networking, video chats, mobile-device support, instant messaging and presence.

Verizon is also adding intercompany high-definition voice and video capabilities for select VoIP customers that use the service's popular VIPER feature. This is a cloud-based IP-to-IP routing option that eliminates additional per minute domestic and international charges on calls between VIPER-enabled locations customers.

Verizon VoIP Delivers Value

With Verizon's award-winning VoIP service available in more Asia-Pacific countries, customers will realize a variety of benefits. These include Verizon's Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks capability, which shifts idle trunk capacity at one location to accommodate increased traffic requirements at another; a robust suite of business continuity services; centralized multisite, multicountry design architecture for additional network and cost efficiencies; T.38 faxing capabilities; and online self-service reporting capabilities.

Consumer Reports Survey: Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse Best Choices Overall for Bundled Internet, TV, and Telephone Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:43:34 GMT

Service providers FiOS and AT&T U-verse were top recommendations for bundled telecom services, based on a survey of 70,000 Consumer Reports readers.

The next best choice for many households for bundled services is a highly rated cable company including Cox, Cablevision, or Bright House Networks if they are in your area. If television service is a priority and Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse aren't available in your area, satellite providers DirecTV or Dish Network received above average survey scores. Their TV service is offered in hybrid bundles with DSL and phone service from some telephone providers

The issue also features tips on how to cut your telecom bills. The full story appears in the May issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale April 5th. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.

The survey, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, revealed that most major providers scored about the same in satisfaction as in recent years—ho hum compared with other services the magazine rates. Once again, the most satisfying telecom providers were a few small, regional cable companies, and Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse, the high-speed phone-company offerings.

The trouble is, according to Consumer Reports, most consumers have limited choice. All but a few markets are served by only one cable provider. Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse are available in only one-third of the U.S., and almost nowhere are they both available. Though almost all homes can receive satellite TV, satellite companies—unlike the other types of providers—don't offer their own internet and phone service.

But there are bright spots. Some newer alternatives received favorable marks in CR's survey, including the Ooma phone service, which offers free domestic calling, and dirt-cheap international rates.

Phone

Phone service from a major carrier makes sense for many households, especially if it's bundled with Internet and TV service at a nice discount. But changing or eliminating such home-phone service can be a practical way to slash telecom bills. If you drop home phone services from a major carrier and use one of the options below, you could save $20 a month or more.

Consider low-cost VoIP services. Many homes already have VoIP phone service from their cable company, Verizon FiOS, or AT&T U-verse. Costs usually run about $30 a month as part of a bundle or about $50 a la carte, including a long-distance plan.
Alternative VoIP services including Ooma, Vonage, Magic jack and Skype cost less, from nothing to about $25 a month for unlimited domestic calls, plus an upfront cost for equipment.

Television

TV still represents the biggest chunk of the home telecom bill for most households. More than 90 percent of the respondents to the survey still had a pay-TV provider of some sort. There has been a lot of talk about consumers cutting the cord to their TV service providers. But only 1.4 percent of CR readers have canceled their pay-TV service in the past two years, and another 7 percent of those who now have a paid service are thinking about dropping it.

Drop premium channels. Premium channels, notably HBO and Showtime, increasingly offer original programming, not just movies that have run elsewhere first. If you don't mind playing catch-up, you can watch past seasons of some premium shows as part of an unlimited subscription from a streaming service, or borrow DVDs or Blu-ray discs free from your library. Also ask your carrier about getting premium channels free as part of a limited-time promotion.
Cut the cord to your provider. If you mostly watch broadcast networks and rent movies, get your TV free over-the-air via an antenna and use an all-you-can watch online streaming service. You'll need an Internet-enabled TV, Blu-ray player, set-top box, or game console and a subscription to a service such as Netflix, which has streaming plans starting at $8 a month.

Internet

The small cable operator WOW was top rated across the board for Internet service, significantly ahead of highly rated providers such as Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse for overall satisfaction.

Don't pay for speed you don't need. If your Internet service provider pitches you a "blazing fast" speed—25 Mbps or faster— at an extra cost, don't bite. A consistent download speed of at least 5 Mbps, which is standard from the better cable companies and high-speed phone services, should be fine even for streaming high definition videos.
Use Wi-Fi hot spots. Rather than paying $30 to $60 a month for a cellular data service, use free Wi-Fi in public areas, at cafés, and at hot spots that may be provided by your cable company. Wi-Fi is often faster than 3G and 4G, but you can't venture beyond the hot-spot area.

Skype Mobile to Bring Video Calling to the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:41:50 GMT

Wireless and Skype announce that mobile with video will soon be available on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network. This new version of Skype mobile from Verizon Wireless will be deeply integrated into a wide range of 4G smartphones to be available by mid-2011. With front- and rear-facing cameras, these Android-based 4G LTE smartphones will make it simple for customers to make Skype-to-Skype video calls over Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network.

Customers will be able to see and hear their friends and family when making or receiving Skype-to-Skype video calls on Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network, the fastest and most advanced 4G network in the nation. The new offer expands Skype’s video calling capabilities for millions and provides a great video experience using the speed, low-latency and quality of Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE wireless network.

“Skype mobile with video is the kind of application that truly shows off what a 4G network can mean to consumers. Keeping in touch with friends and family will be more enjoyable because video calling over the fastest and most advanced 4G network is coming. Finally, using Skype mobile with video, ‘you can see what I see, and I can see what you see’ becomes reality, and it’s because of the combination of Skype and Verizon Wireless – and our 4G LTE network,” said Marni Walden, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless.

“We heard the demand for mobile video calling loud and clear from our users and are delighted to meet this demand with a mobile video calling product that takes advantage of Verizon Wireless’ new network in the U.S.,” said Russ Shaw, general manager and vice president of Skype’s Mobile Business Unit. “Skype mobile with video will enable Verizon Wireless and Skype users to share special moments face to face with those who matter most – from wherever they may be.”

Consumer devices with a wide range of applications, including Skype mobile with video, are expected to be available by mid-2011. The low-latency of the 4G LTE network makes it ideal for video calling and chatting across the room to another wireless phone or around the world to a PC or Mac.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless’ 3G network. Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company’s entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

Skype mobile with video represents the next phase in the strategic relationship between the two companies, which began last year when Verizon Wireless and Skype launched the initial version of Skype mobile for Verizon Wireless customers. Skype mobile continues to provide customers with Skype-to-Skype voice calls over Verizon Wireless’ leading network.

More details on Skype mobile with video will be available at CES in Verizon Wireless’ booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center).

Verizon Business Advances VoIP Services, Strengthens Global Platform for Unified Communications and Collaboration

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:58:39 GMT

Business is introducing its voice-over-Internet Protocol portfolio in Switzerland, making it the eleventh country in Europe to benefit from the company's business-class VoIP services.

In addition, Verizon Business will introduce throughout Europe a new VoIP product service-level agreement, which is already available in the U.S. Also, the company has certified Cisco VoIP and unified communications and collaboration gear to work with Verizon IP Trunking in the U.S. and Europe.

"Verizon Business continues to enhance and expand its VoIP offerings to create a powerful unified communications and collaboration platform for multinational enterprises," said Anthony Recine, vice president of networking and communications solutions for Verizon Business. "By expanding our VoIP portfolio in Switzerland, introducing a comprehensive VoIP service-level agreement and certifying the latest Cisco Unified Communications system with our world-class IP Trunking, we continue to advance the state of VoIP for our customers worldwide."

Verizon Business VoIP Services Come to Switzerland

Having the full Verizon Business VoIP portfolio (Hosted IP Centrex, IP Trunking and IP Integrated Access) available throughout Switzerland, with full two-way voice calling services for national and international calling, will enable large enterprises, as well as medium-size businesses, to completely replace traditional voice calling services in any of the countries where Verizon VoIP services are available.

Locations in Switzerland are now also able to take advantage of virtually all the same product features and services available in the other 10 European countries where the service is available. Leveraging the cloud services model, Verizon can make UC&C software and services available from an externally hosted platform, on a pay-per-user basis, so customers can avoid much of the expense and complexity of buying and managing their own equipment.

New VoIP SLAs Launch in U.S., Will Expand to Europe

Effective Nov. 4, Verizon Business made available a new VoIP product service-level agreement for U.S. VoIP customers. The SLA increases the mean opinion score guarantee (a measure of voice quality) to 4.0 and introduces a new four-hour mean-time-to-repair metric. The SLA also covers network availability and jitter (data-packet loss that can degrade or delay voice quality), making it one of the industry's most aggressive VoIP network-quality SLAs. The new SLA is available to all new and existing U.S. Verizon VoIP customers that use Verizon's Private IP or Internet Dedicated Access services, which provide exceptional VoIP call quality on both private and public IP-based networks. A similar SLA will be launched for VoIP services in Europe in the first half of 2011.

New Product Certifications Provides More Choice for Customers Worldwide

Verizon Business has certified the latest Cisco VoIP and Cisco UC&C technologies to work with IP Trunking to provide more choice and flexibility with Cisco. With Cisco Unified Communications Manager, an enterprise-class VoIP call-processing system, customers can take advantage of advanced capabilities, such as video, mobility, presence and conferencing services.

Verizon IP Trunking customers can also use Cisco Unified Border Element, an enterprise-focused session border controller to help control communications costs, improve network interconnections and enable rich collaboration applications. Later this month, Verizon Business customers will also benefit from the certification of Unified Communications Manager with and without Cisco CUBE.

Verizon Business Helps Siemens Enterprise Communications Upgrade and Streamline Its European Communications

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 19:40:03 GMT

Like many multinational companies, Siemens Enterprise Communications needed to streamline its communications network management while setting the stage for advanced services. The company turned to Verizon Business for an integrated communications and networking solution that will enable it to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively as it transitions to a unified communications environment.

Verizon's solution for upgrading Siemens Enterprise Communications' European communications infrastructure integrates voice over IP with centralized, multicountry and multisite IP Trunking to link the company's Munich headquarters with operations across 10 European countries. Additionally, Verizon IP Trunking's Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks feature enables Siemens to essentially scale VoIP network capacity on demand to support its business needs.

Verizon's simple VoIP infrastructure has also enabled Siemens to transition all its voice communications to its own award-winning OpenScape Unified Communications Suite, which includes audio conferencing, presence and collaboration tools – as well as providing a platform on which this can be demonstrated to the company's customers.

Verizon Business Offers New IP Capabilities to Make the Most of Voice Over IP, IP Conferencing

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:02:50 GMT

As companies continue to push for more efficient and effective interaction among employees, customers and partners, Verizon Business is now offering new IP capabilities that make the adoption of unified communications and collaboration simpler and more cost-effective than ever before.

The new capabilities, unveiled Wednesday (June 23) feature:

IP Audio Conferencing for conducting instant meetings that will speed collaboration while eliminating additional per minute charges for calls originating from a Verizon IP-enabled location leveraging the company's expansive global IP network.
VoIP IP Enterprise Routing (VIPER) – a new cloud-based VoIP feature that enables more cost-effective business-to-business voice calls by eliminating domestic or international per minute calling charges when calls are made between Verizon VoIP customers in either the U.S. and Europe that sign up for the VIPER feature. As an added benefit, a customer using Verizon IP Audio Conferencing will not incur additional per minute charges from any VIPER-enabled location dialing into the host conference bridge.
Centralized multi-site designs for Verizon Hosted IP Centrex customers in Europe to aggregate calls through a central "hub" location connected to Verizon's expansive global IP network, including calls from sites in other countries, or using third-party wide area network access, or both. Multi-site customers also benefit from a new pricing structure between countries where Verizon offers VoIP.

These Verizon capabilities are compelling options for enterprises already using Verizon Private IP, VoIP or IP Toll-free contact center services as part of their overall UC&C strategy.

Simple and Cost-Effective Bridge to UC&C

Verizon IP Audio Conferencing enables customers to take advantage of their IP networks for conference calls, providing another access option to boost efficiencies and control costs. Audio conferencing is often a first step in a collaboration strategy, allowing organizations around the world to seamlessly bridge obstacles of time and space in today's global and highly distributed economy.

VIPER Makes VoIP B-to-B Friendly

VIPER, available to Verizon Business VoIP customers in the U.S. and Europe, enables customers to benefit from cost savings for business-to-business IP calling. The new capability is enabled in the Verizon network and does not require additional customer hardware or software. As Verizon Business is a major provider of IP Trunking and VoIP offerings with a large and rapidly growing customer base, the VIPER offer provides a significant savings opportunity for customers. The capability can be leveraged with any VIPER customer, automatically enrolling organizations in a user community.

Centralized Multi-Site Designs for Greater Efficiency

Hosted IP Centrex customers in Europe can now benefit from centralizing a hub in one European location and extending VoIP capabilities – including the enhanced features and benefits of UC&C – to multiple European office locations. The centralized multi-site, multi-country platform eliminates the need for in-country voice trunks and additional TDM/IP gateways and can support emergency calls from any of the remote locations. Also available with this capability is a new rate plan that allows calls between countries where Verizon VoIP is available to be billed at the domestic rate for the terminating country. Given that approximately 30 percent of calls made in Europe are between countries, this option can deliver significant savings for Verizon customers.

Verizon FiOS Customers Can Now Get FiOS Digital Voice

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 19:19:56 GMT

Verizon FiOS customers now have an enhanced digital phone service - FiOS Digital Voice - to go with the ultimate broadband and home-entertainment experience.

Designed specifically for Verizon's advanced all-fiber-optic network, with a brilliantly clear sound quality, FiOS Digital Voice has 21 industry-leading features including live voice-mail screening, an advanced online call manager and Caller ID on TV. Many of these features are not available with the traditional Freedom Essentials voice service.

FiOS Digital Voice is now available in the FiOS markets in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Florida, Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania and California.

More Features, Flexibility and Control

An easy-to-use, online account-management tool is a key element of FiOS Digital Voice, enabling customers to conveniently use a broadband-connected computer to access and manage the service's integrated features. Customers also have the option to add another FiOS Digital Voice line, with its own assigned number and all the same features, for $9.99 a month. It's a great addition for families and others who would like a second voice line in their home.

Other FiOS Digital Voice features include:

Live Voice Mail Screening - Not available from cable, this feature gives users the option to hear voice mail messages as they arrive and then decide whether or not to take the incoming call.
Call Logs - Lists the caller name, telephone number (if available), date, time-of-day, location and duration of every incoming and outgoing call. Users can easily transfer contact information directly into their FiOS Digital Voice personal address book.
Caller ID on TV - Enables FiOS TV customers to see incoming caller ID information displayed for several seconds in the corner of their TV screen. They can decide to pause their TV programming to answer the call or let it go into their FiOS Digital Voice mailbox. The feature can be turned on or off from the customer's set-top box.
Locate Me - Customers can program up to three numbers where they might be reached when not at home, and incoming calls will ring at each of those numbers, one at a time. Unanswered calls are sent to voice mail.

Details about many of the other FiOS Digital Voice features - including Simultaneous Ring, Do Not Disturb, Voice Mail with E-mail Notification and Virtual Numbers - are available at Verizon.com.

Like traditional phone service, FiOS Digital Voice allows users to reach their local emergency services by simply dialing 911.

New customers who sign up by July 24 for FiOS quad- or triple-play bundles that include broadband, TV and FiOS Digital Voice also will receive a guaranteed monthly rate for two years. Starting at $99.99 a month for a triple-play bundle of FiOS TV Prime, FiOS Internet with 15 Mbps (megabits per second) downstream and 5 Mbps upstream and FiOS Digital Voice, the new service bundles are attractive to budget-conscious families and anyone who wants the assurance of knowing how much it will cost each month for TV, Internet and voice services. Other triple- and quad-play bundles with FiOS Digital Voice are available with 24-month price guarantees; many include options for a multi-room DVR free for three months and certain movie channels also available free for three months as part of the two-year plans.

Verizon VoIP Services Show Strong Growth at 10-Year Mark

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 25 May 2010 16:22:31 GMT

Verizon Global Wholesale's VoIP minutes of use grew more than 200 percent in 2009, compared with the previous year. This trend continues a growth trajectory that began with the launch of Verizon's wholesale VoIP portfolio in 2000.

"Since we launched our VoIP portfolio 10 years ago, we've seen steady growth reflecting customer desire for reliable, cost-effective IP voice services," said Mike Millegan, president of Verizon Global Wholesale. "And, as this market grows, we continue to add new VoIP services while enhancing our existing portfolio."

VoIP uses virtual rather than traditional physical call connections, enabling flexible, efficient call processing using packet-based signaling. As VoIP services become widely accepted, new applications such as high-velocity, short-duration calling systems used by call centers and mass notification systems find VoIP to be the platform of choice.

With wholesale customers and network resources around the globe, Verizon Global Wholesale is positioned to support a variety of call origination and termination solutions for customers with multinational needs. New VoIP enhancements planned for 2010 include the deployment of more robust VoIP network interfaces in Europe.

Other VoIP features planned in 2010 are support of Caller-Provided CLI (Caller Line Identity) and greater integration into customer portals. In high demand by wholesale customers that support call centers, Caller-Provided CLI is a caller ID feature that allows a main phone number to appear as the called ID even when a call is made from an extension, branch office, or home-based agent. This feature allows businesses that have staff at more than one office to present a more uniform presence when communicating with their customers.

As companies look for ways to streamline processes and reduce operating costs, Verizon Global Wholesale continues to give customers powerful e-commerce tools through automation with its one-stop customer Web portal, the Verizon Wholesale Center. By the end of the year, wholesale customers outside the U.S. should have the ability to "go green" by electronically accessing their call detail records and directly downloading their monthly invoices - as opposed to receiving paper invoices.

Verizon's VoIP expertise extends to its work with industry standards and committees -- both in and outside the U.S., with the Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions and the International Interconnection Forum. Verizon is helping to develop engineering specifications, interconnection methods, and specific technical and test parameters necessary to ensure IP interoperability for voice services.

Verizon Business Unveils New Fixed Mobile Convergence Offering in Europe

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 11 May 2010 18:01:58 GMT

Verizon Business introduces Global Fixed Mobile Convergence, a new service that can significantly reduce mobile phone roaming charges for European workers who make and receive calls outside of their home service area.

The new service also offers a universal phone number with "find me/follow me" capabilities to reach employees on a wireline or mobile phone for immediate attention, reducing the number of voicemails and spurring productivity.

Using advanced software from MobileMax, Verizon Global Fixed Mobile Convergence determines cost-effective routing for mobile calls. The service dynamically directs calls to either Verizon's cloud-based global voice-over-IP communications platform, powered by Broadsoft, or to the customer's mobile network service if that is the more cost-effective option. This is particularly powerful in helping to contain roaming costs for workers placing and receiving calls outside of their network coverage area, or when making international calls from their home country.

Verizon Global FMC is available immediately to Verizon Business customers in nine European countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. In addition, enterprises headquartered in the U.S. and Asia-Pacific can also take advantage of the offering for employees based in this initial service area.

The new enterprise solution works with an array of mobile devices across most GSM-based mobile operator networks located throughout the initial service area. As a result, new and existing companies can achieve cost-savings for international mobile calls without any additional capital investment and without changing mobile operators or company-issued handsets.

Verizon Global FMC will be integrated next month with the company's VoIP platform, enabling more advanced capabilities afforded by PBX office phone systems and cost savings opportunities for Verizon Global FMC customers who are also Verizon VoIP customers. By combining the power of voice over IP in a mobile, wireless environment, individuals will be able to activate the same familiar office phone features directly from their mobile handset.

Verizon Business' unified communications and mobility consultants can help businesses prepare for and employ Verizon Global FMC in the context of their overall UC&C and mobility strategies. The new service complements Verizon's comprehensive suite of unified communications and collaboration solutions, and is being integrated with Verizon Managed Mobility to simplify management of a multitude of global devices, expenses and applications across multiple carriers around the globe.

In a separate announcement Tuesday (May 11), the company introduced Enterprise Mobility as a Service, a cloud-based solution for businesses to more simply and cost-effectively manage and use mobile devices to access corporate resources.

Verizon Global Wholesale Boosts Functionality and Security for Selected VoIP Services

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 06 May 2010 19:06:37 GMT

Verizon Global Wholesale is now offering additional functionality for three of its product platforms, providing voice-over-Internet-protocol customers with a secure connection for transmitting information over the Internet and other public networks.

This new functionality enables the product platforms -- SIP Gateway Service, Advanced Toll Free IP Termination and Carrier IP Termination Transport -- to share a single, secure virtual private network connection called an IP Security tunnel. Currently, Verizon is the only major provider offering this connection, which provides additional security during call setup. Because IPSec is an industry standard and supported by most major equipment vendors, there is no need to create vendor-specific security protocols.

An IPSec tunnel maintains integrity and confidentiality because all data is encrypted prior to transmission, then authenticated upon receipt to verify the data has not been altered. The source of the data is also authenticated to prevent the possibility of such security breaches as "spoofing" an IP address – a fraudulent network technique in which a program or person masquerades as another.

Verizon's wholesale VoIP products continue to grow as more customers migrate from traditional voice platforms to IP platforms while taking advantage of the quality and extensive reach of the Verizon network.

Verizon's SIP Gateway Service, which carries billions of minutes of use each quarter, comes in four configurations: Inbound Complete, Two-Way Local, Two-Way Complete and Outbound.

SIP Gateway Services are complemented by Carrier IP Termination Service. This offering allows customers to take advantage of the cost savings of originating long-distance traffic and terminating that traffic via SIP protocol over a global network.

Verizon's Advanced Toll Free Service, which has been growing since its introduction in 2008, allows U.S.-based customers to support toll-free calling solutions on a global basis. Verizon's International Toll Free Service supports in-country toll-free dialing outside the U.S. across more than 80 countries and Universal International Freefone Numbers across more than 40 countries, giving customers a superior offering that combines expansive coverage with flexible configurations and robust features.

Verizon Global Wholesale Offers VoIP and Internet Access Packages

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:01:30 GMT

Verizon is offering three new VoIP and Internet packages available through the Verizon Global Wholesale division. The offers are designed to respond to the rapid growth of VoI in the small and medium business realm and the resulting demand for powerful high-speed Internet connections. In addition, the offers support Verizon Global Wholesale customers' marketing efforts to small and medium sized businesses.

NEC IP PBX and SIP Gateway Solution

The first new package combines Verizon's SIP Gateway Service with associated router hardware. SIP Gateway Service transports VoIP traffic between packet-based IP networks and the traditional telephone network, allowing Verizon Global Wholesale's customers to give small and medium-sized businesses a quick and easy way to get into the VoIP world.

In addition to providing access to Verizon's expansive IP local network and its telephone number inventory, wholesale customers can offer small and medium-sized businesses a new NEC UNIVERGE SV8100 IP PBX and its associated installation and maintenance bundle at a discount, simplifying the setup and lowering the cost of entry into the IP market. This enables small and medium-sized businesses to work with a single vendor, receive one bill, and gain access to a feature-rich VoIP solution that delivers cost reductions and the promise of increased productivity.

Both the SIP connection and the NEC UNIVERGE SV8100 PBX are priced at a discount with this new simple, feature-rich package. The service and hardware discounts expire on June 30.

Internet Dedicated T1 Package

The second new package, Internet Dedicated T1, also combines discounted service and hardware. It provides a high-capacity connection for 30 or more users and is designed for transmitting high-volume e-mail traffic, transferring large files, or hosting Web sites from virtually anywhere.

The package, based on T1 technology, combines 24 channels of broadband signal into a 1.544 megabit per second (Mbps) service, with customer equipment available to enable the service. Quality of service assurance is offered as an option, at an additional cost. QoS is important for businesses that consolidate voice, video and key business applications onto a converged IP network.

The equipment offered in this package is either a Samsung Ubigate iBG 1000 for data-only applications or a model 1003 for data and voice services combined. The discounts on service and equipment expire on March 31, 2011.

For small and medium-sized businesses with a larger appetite for Internet access, a third new promotional offer features Internet access with an Ethernet connection at either 5 Mbps or 10 Mbps. This Internet Dedicated Ethernet service is discounted and bundled with a Samsung iBG1000 router, the cost of which is credited back over the initial year of service.

Targeted at businesses that intend to consolidate voice, video and key business applications onto a converged IP network, this offer delivers a single-vendor solution that end-user customers can leverage to fit their business model. The Ethernet service discount and the monthly credit offer for the cost of the router are scheduled to expire on March 31, 2011.

Verizon Business Named North American Service Provider of the Year by Polycom

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:16:49 GMT

Verizon Business has been named Global Service Provider of the Year, North America, by Polycom. The award, given in conjunction with the 2010 TEAM Polycom, the company's annual partner conference, recognizes Verizon Business for its outstanding sales performance and excellence in meeting customer solution, service and support needs.

"This recognition reinforces our ongoing commitment to providing our customers with the best possible integrated communications solutions," said Kerry Bailey, Verizon Business chief marketing officer. "Collaborative technologies such as conferencing, telepresence and unified communications tools are essential for enabling connectivity for employees, customers and partners across today's globally extended enterprises. Our relationship with Polycom helps us to develop world-class solutions that have a significant impact on our customers' business operations."

Mark Roberts, Polycom vice president of partner marketing, said: "This is an exciting time in the communications industry, and Polycom sits squarely in the middle of this ever-changing, rapidly growing market. Our partners are absolutely critical to our success, and we're proud to be represented by some of the best, most experienced partners in this industry. We're also excited to recognize our top-performance partners for continued excellence in meeting customer needs."

Verizon Business is a leading provider of collaboration and unified communications services, enabling organizations to conveniently and effectively collaborate, virtually anytime, anywhere, helping them improve response time and productivity without the costs and carbon emissions associated with business travel. With 30 years of experience delivering conferencing services, the company uses its global IP network to provide a wide array of advance collaboration and mobility tools to large-business and government customers around the world, including audio, video and Web conferencing; VoIP; contact center services; and managed and hosting solutions, as well as professional services capabilities.

Partnership Brings Skype to Verizon Wireless Smartphones in March

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:18:04 GMT

Skype and Verizon Wireless announce a strategic relationship that will bring Skype to Verizon Wireless smartphones in March. The new Skype mobile product enhances Verizon Wireless' smartphones for users who have data plans by offering a new way to call around the globe, while also giving hundreds of millions of Skype users around the world the opportunity to communicate with friends, family and business colleagues in the United States using Verizon Wireless.

The two companies have created an exclusive, easy-to-use Skype mobile offering for 3G smartphones. Verizon Wireless 3G smartphone users with data plans can use Skype mobile to:

make and receive unlimited Skype-to-Skype voice calls to any Skype user around the globe on America's most reliable wireless network;
call international phone numbers at competitive Skype Out calling rates;
send and receive instant messages to other Skype users; and
remain always connected with the ability to see friends' online presence.

Initially, Skype mobile will be available on millions of best-selling Verizon Wireless 3G smartphones with data plans, including the BlackBerry Storm 9530, Storm2 9550, Curve 8330, Curve 8530, 8830 World Edition and Tour 9630 smartphones, as well as DROID by Motorola, DROID ERIS by HTC and Motorola DEVOUR.

John Stratton, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless, said, "Skype mobile on Verizon Wireless changes the game. For Verizon Wireless' more than 90 million customers, Skype mobile adds great value because we're effectively giving customers with smartphones and data plans the option to extend their unlimited calling community to hundreds of millions of Skype users around the globe. And you're not limited to using a single type of phone; we'll have nine smartphones ready right at launch in March."

Josh Silverman, chief executive officer of Skype, noted, "People want to take their Skype conversations with them wherever they go, whether it's on a PC, TV or increasingly mobile phones. Verizon Wireless will give U.S. consumers the best Skype experience on mobile phones and will truly change the way people call their friends and family internationally."

Verizon Business Helps European Companies Maximize their IP Networks

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:30:53 GMT

More businesses can now maximize the potential of their IP-enabled communications, thanks to Verizon Business. The company's award-winning Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks feature is now available in Europe, enabling customers to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of their IP networks by allowing capacity to be allocated on demand to support business needs across customers' VoIP locations.

The BEST feature, available with selected Verizon VoIP services, lets enterprises use idle trunk -- or communication line -- capacity from one location to support an increase in traffic elsewhere. Organizations are therefore able to optimize their IP network utilization and achieve cost efficiencies.

The BEST feature is available with Verizon Hosted IP Centrex, Verizon Integrated Access and Verizon IP Trunking. Verizon Hosted IP Centrex is Verizon Business' premier "in-the-cloud," network-based, VoIP service. Verizon Integrated Access is an option for businesses that wish to keep their existing key telephone system or PBX but still want to leverage the benefits of VoIP technology. Verizon IP Trunking allows customers with an IP PBX to leverage direct SIP connectivity into their equipment, minimizing customer premises equipment gateway costs.

With the introduction of BEST in Europe, global enterprises can individually tailor their communications capacity to allow all their VoIP locations to contribute to, and borrow from, a virtual pool of voice trunks that can be shared across their enterprise, across Verizon VoIP service offerings and across national boundaries. The BEST feature is made even more powerful when it is coupled with Verizon Business' centralized multisite, multicountry IP Trunking design option. This provides businesses with the flexibility to implement a centralized IP PBX hub in one European location and to extend VoIP services -- including the enhanced features and benefits of unified communications and collaboration -- to other sites across multiple European countries.

The BEST offering is available immediately in 10 European countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the U.K. as well as in the U.S. Availability in the Asia-Pacific region will commence late next year.

Verizon Business Tops in Customer Satisfaction for Large-Enterprise Voice Services

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:39:31 GMT

J.D. Power and Associates, recently gave Verizon Business a leading ranking for customer satisfaction among large-enterprise data service customers, has now ranked Verizon Business highest in overall customer satisfaction among large-enterprise voice services providers.

Respondents to J.D. Power and Associates' 2009 Major Provider Business Telecommunications Study -- Voice Services determined that Verizon Business sets the benchmark for five of the six factors used to measure customer satisfaction: performance and reliability, sales representatives/account executives, billing, cost of service, and offerings and promotions. Verizon Business' overall score of 684 on a scale of 1,000 was 22 points higher than the large-enterprise segment average score, and the company ranked particularly high in both the offerings and promotions and billing factors.

J.D. Power and Associates' 2009 Major Provider Business Telecommunications Services Study -- Voice Services surveyed U.S. home-based, small- to midsized- and large-enterprise business customers to measure customer satisfaction with providers of telecommunications voice services such as VoIP, call center technologies, toll-free services, voice mail/voice messaging, Centrex services, call forwarding, and local and long-distance services. The surveys were conducted in January and April 2009.

Verizon Business Tops Infonetics Research's Business VoIP Services Leadership Matrix

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 21:54:10 GMT

Communications market research firm Infonetics Research launched a new North America Business VoIP Services Leadership Matrix that analyzes and ranks the top service providers in the VoIP business services market.

"In the aggressive North American business VoIP services market, Verizon Business stands out as the market leader in both IP Centrex and IP connectivity services. Still, in this highly competitive market, a number of providers, such as New Global Telecom and Cbeyond, are finding success in offering compelling solutions for businesses," said Diane Myers, Infonetics Research's Directing Analyst for Service Provider VoIP and IMS.

MATRIX REPORT HIGHLIGHTS

Verizon Business scores highest in Infonetics' leadership matrix for IP Centrex services and IP connectivity services due largely to its strong financial stability
New Global Telecom ranks second overall for IP Centrex services, with the largest number of IP Centrex subscribers in North America and an outstanding market strategy
In the IP connectivity services market, closely following Verizon Business, are Cbeyond and Paetec
Other service providers in the leadership matrix rankings: 8x8, Alteva Networks, AT&T, BroadView Networks, BroadVOX, Comcast, Covad, Global Crossing, iCore Networks, Level 3, Time Warner Telecom, and XO

REPORT SYNOPSIS

The VoIP service provider leadership matrix is a new addition to Infonetics' VoIP and UC Services and Subscribers biannual market share and forecast report; all subscribers to this report have access to the leadership matrix.

The leadership matrix ranks the top 10 IP Centrex service providers and top 9 IP connectivity providers in North America based on criteria critical to determining market leadership, including number of IP Centrex subscribers and/or installed base of IP connectivity lines/trunks, financial stability, market strategy, service capabilities, and support options.

In addition to the new service provider leadership matrix, Infonetics' VoIP and UC services and subscribers report provides worldwide and regional market size, forecasts through 2013, and analysis of residential and SOHO VoIP services, business VoIP and UC services, and residential/SOHO VoIP subscribers. Business voice services are tracked by hosted IP Centrex, hosted UC, managed IP PBX, and IP connectivity (voice VPN/IP access, SIP trunking, and IP integrated access).

Verizon Business and Avaya Expand Enterprise VoIP

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:42:54 GMT

Businesses and government agencies will immediately be able to take advantage of the latest certifications of Verizon Business' VoIP and contact center services with Avaya's complete line of equipment and software.

The two companies have completed certifications of Verizon IP Contact Center suite of services and Verizon IP Trunking with Avaya Communication Manager 5.1.1/SES 5.1.1 and Avaya Communication Manager Branch to enable the most current capabilities of both companies across Verizon Business' complete suite of VoIP and Contact Center Services.

The training program will support an expanded global Verizon-Avaya enterprise resale relationship, the continued introduction of the most current certified offers, and Verizon's status as a Platinum Avaya Partner and Platinum DevConnect Partner.

IP Contact Centers Cost-Effectively Speed Call Resolution

Verizon Business and Avaya have enabled one of the industry's first pure end-to-end SIP-based contact center solutions through the powerful combination of Verizon Business' leading contact center and VoIP portfolios and Avaya's advanced equipment. As a result, organizations can immediately benefit from upgrading an existing contact center to IP, or setting up a new center, to reduce their total cost of ownership and increase their return on assets.

The Verizon IP Contact Center suite incorporates Verizon VoIP Inbound Toll Free and IP Intelligent Voice Routing services working in tandem with Avaya Intelligent Communications (User-to-User Information, Network Call Redirection and Avaya Agent Deskphone 16CC-Communication Manager5.x and SIP Enablement Services 5.x).

Global VoIP Fuels Enterprise Operations

Verizon Business and Avaya continue to help companies transition to VoIP for enhanced enterprise communications and business operations.

Verizon IP Trunking, compliant with Avaya Communication Manager 5.1.1 and Avaya Communication Manager Branch, provides direct SIP connectivity into an IP PBX, eliminating the need for gateway equipment at the customer's premises.

IP Trunking helps businesses simplify network design and control costs resulting in lower operating overhead, power consumption and maintenance costs. It also delivers features such as BEST (Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks) which enable customers to share local and long distance trunks across their enterprise providing unprecedented business efficiencies. IP Trunking is available in United States and 10 European countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Sweden, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Texas A&M University Extends Verizon VoIP Relationship

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:35:49 GMT

Texas A&M University faculty, students and administrators will benefit from the reliability and flexibility of advanced communications services provided by Verizon Business. Under a three-year, $20 million renewal of its master services agreement, Verizon Business will provide traditional voice and data network services, cabling, and managed services. Under separate agreements, Verizon Business will also migrate the majority of Texas A&M's operations to VoIP while also providing the university with advanced audio-conferencing services.

The agreements build on Verizon Business' decades-long relationship with one of Texas' flagship universities.

Verizon Business is currently working with the university on the first phase of installing VoIP to new buildings on campus. The university has a goal of installing 3,000 lines in a half dozen buildings this year and in about 10 more buildings targeted for next year. Ultimately, Verizon Business will help the university migrate the majority of its campus from its existing time division multiplex network to a next-generation VoIP platform.

"Our traditional copper infrastructure was more than 50 years old in some areas, and we needed a long-term solution," said Dr. Walt Magnussen, director for telecommunications at Texas A&M University. "By deploying state-of-the-art voice-over-IP technology, we can meet the long-term needs of students and faculty at the university for years to come."

As part of the upgrade of the campus infrastructure, Verizon Business will install advanced switching gear and provide on-site technical support, and managed and professional services.

The new converged VoIP platform can handle large amounts of traffic -- voice, data and video -- while eliminating the need for separate voice and data networks.

Verizon Business to Provide Services to Federal Agencies in Mid-Atlantic Region

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 18:49:02 GMT

Verizon Business will provide a range of local voice and data services to federal agencies in five Mid-Atlantic states under a new agreement, valued at as much as $120.8 million, with the U.S. General Services Administration.

The agreement, known as the Mid-Atlantic Local Services Acquisition contract, covers three years and four renewable option years. Under terms of the deal, the GSA and other federal agencies in the Mid-Atlantic region -- which covers Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia and West Virginia -- can immediately buy local voice and data services. They include Centrex, ISDN services, network-based voice messaging, private line data services, and related managed and professional services.

The LSA contract also provides an option to add advanced services, such as VoIP, in the future.

The contract replaces three Metropolitan Area Acquisition agreements that Verizon Business had in Philadelphia, Baltimore and Norfolk, as well as the Mid-Atlantic Access Contract for Centrex Services.

Verizon Business is the largest provider of communications services to the U.S. federal government and one of the largest providers of advanced communications and information technology services globally. The company offers local-to-global network capabilities coupled with a broad range of telecommunications products and services -- including advanced IP services, professional services, managed network services and systems integration -- to all levels of government.

With this broad portfolio of services, Verizon Business can provide federal agencies with one-stop shopping for their communications or connectivity needs. The company has built the next-generation services that are helping to transform the way government customers -- and their constituents -- do business.

Verizon Hub Touch Screen Home Phone Available on Feb. 1

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:28:55 GMT

In a dynamic move sure to rattle devotees of plain old home phones, Verizon Wireless will introduce the new Verizon Hub on Feb. 1. Only Verizon Wireless can launch a new touch screen home phone system designed to replace old-style home phones with a souped-up home communications system, bridging wireline and wireless connectivity in one simple service, that runs on any broadband connection – whether supplied by Verizon FiOS Internet or DSL or any other high-speed service provider.

Families with active lifestyles and virtually anyone who wants to stay current and connected need a tool that helps manage their communications, contacts and calendars simply and smartly – all from one easy screen. The Verizon Hub is poised to help pave the way for people to stay in touch and up to date with the information they need to navigate their increasingly busy days and nights.

The Verizon Hub uses your existing broadband connection, and it’s quick to get it up and running. It will work with any open broadband connection from virtually any broadband provider – telecommunications or cable – anywhere in the United States.

Out of the box, the Verizon Hub will have all the calling features users expect from the most advanced home phones, plus visual voicemail and robust contact list management. Verizon Wireless has also added exciting messaging options, including text message calendar alerts and audible turn-by-turn directions delivered to Verizon Wireless phones from the Verizon Hub – with just a few simple taps on the screen.

Information will be at a family’s fingertips, literally from an easy-to-navigate touch screen with clear icons on the Verizon Hub. Families will start and end their days with nuggets of customized information from the Verizon Hub:

Check local traffic and weather in the morning before leaving the house
Update your calendar and automatically receive a text when an appointment changes or as a reminder not to be late
Get directions to the new site when the location for soccer practice is moved
Find the number of the new pizza parlor to order a pie
Preview the trailers from an upcoming movie that you might want to take the family to over the weekend, then purchase tickets using the Verizon Hub

Families on the go can access all the information and functionality of the Verizon Hub remotely from a companion Web site, even adding calendar entries for family members and inputting new contacts from the Web site. The home-based Verizon Hub is instantly updated.

Verizon Wireless customers who bring the Verizon Hub into their homes can connect to popular applications including VZ Navigator and Chaperone, as well as incorporate their wireless devices through text, picture and video messaging between wireless phones and the Verizon Hub. New and exciting V CAST content will also be available on the Verizon Hub, and when not in use, the Verizon Hub doubles as a digital picture frame displaying all of your favorite photos.

Verizon Business Brings Advanced Services to School District in North Texas

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:25:34 GMT

Students, teachers and parents in the Sherman Independent School District in North Texas are leveraging the power of advanced communications in and out of the classroom, using new services from Verizon Business. The services will be provided under a new agreement that expands the company’s decade-long relationship with the district, which is located about 60 miles north of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, near the Oklahoma border. The Sherman ISD serves about 6,100 students at 12 locations.

Verizon Business is currently completing the installation of a new VoIP platform and is deploying wireless LANS for each school campus to expand the district’s communications capability and reach. The new services are provided via the district’s existing high-capacity Ethernet network, which also carries the district’s Internet, data and voice services.

In addition to the new VoIP and wireless capabilities, Verizon Business expanded the district’s existing Ethernet capabilities, enabling it to use its data network for a wide range of administrative and educational functions including processing cafeteria transactions, tracking library books, and distance-learning activities in the classroom. The wireless-access points being installed provide students and teachers with greater flexibility by enabling them to access the network, using laptops on district campuses.

Some of the new services and network expansion are made possible through the federal E-rate program. The program, created as part of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 and managed through the Schools and Libraries Division of the Universal Service Administrative Company, provides assistance for eligible schools and libraries to obtain affordable telecommunications services and Internet access. Verizon Business is one of the nation’s leading participants in the program, with more than 10 years of E-rate experience in working with K-12 clients nationwide.

Report: Fiber-Optic Providers Are Leading Choices for Internet, Television, and Telephone Service

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 22:03:27 GMT

Consumers looking to cut costs without sacrificing satisfaction for Internet, television, and telephone service should consider bundling with Verizon FiOS or AT&T U-verse. In Consumer Reports' latest survey of major telecom providers and bundled services, featured in the February issue, Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse, whose networks are fiber-optic based, were the most consistently satisfying providers for their Internet, television, and telephone services.

Because Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-verse are not available everywhere, many consumers must consider other options for Internet, phone and TV services. The article also includes Ratings of these three services, which are typically bundled, from various providers.

In areas where telco-delivered service is not available, a highly-rated cable company is the next-best choice for many households. Consumers may not have an option when choosing a cable provider because a majority of homes only have one cable company available in their area. According to Consumer Reports' survey, better cable companies include Cox, Cablevision and the smaller Bright House and Wow, which are fine alternatives to fiber-optic service providers for all three services in areas that they are available and also offer Internet and telephone services.

If television service is a priority and fiber-optic service isn't available, satellite service may be a fine option. Consumer Reports suggests opting for a bundle that includes DirecTV. It scored higher than all the major cable companies and Dish Network, the other major provider of satellite service, for TV picture, sound and channel selection. It is also offered in hybrid bundles along with DSL Internet and landline phone service from some telephone providers.

Bundling Prices Decline

Intense competition for cable and satellite customers between AT&T U-verse and Verizon FiOS high-speed fiber providers has driven down rates for Internet, phone and TV service and is likely the reason that companies allow these savings to continue past the promotional period. In the past year, bundles of the three services have dropped in price by up to 20 percent, to as low as $80 a month.

Bundling makes sense for many households, especially for those consumers who are served by one of the fiber carriers or one of the better cable companies. Consumer Reports' latest survey found that subscribers were very satisfied with Internet, phone and TV from the best telecom providers. However, bundling doesn't come without some problems. The survey revealed a high incidence of complaints about billing, and fees with some providers' triple-play packages. Despite its high marks overall, Verizon FiOS was below average for customer service to its triple-play customers. Cable companies that bundle services had fewer customer-service problems overall.

How to Choose

Check alternatives. Only a small percentage of homes have two cable companies to choose from; most only have one. Satellite is more widely available, provided a home has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the southwest. DSL is widely available in urban and suburban neighborhoods. While fiber-optic service, such as Verizon FiOS and U-verse from AT&T, is spreading fast, it is still only available in about 8.5 million homes in about one-third of the states.
Weight the case for bundling. With most providers, signing up for more services equals more savings. Bundles allow for integrated services, such as display of callers' phone numbers on the TV screen, which is offered with some phone/cable packages. Triple-play offers often come sweetened with more extras, such as free installation. Consumers may also be guaranteed low rates for a longer period of time with triple-play than when subscribing to services one at a time.
Don't rule out a la carte. Taking fewer than three services from any one provider allows flexibility. Spreading service among a few carriers also eliminates the possibility that a network or equipment failure will knock out all telecom services. Although bundles usually ensure maximum savings, Consumer Reports found at least one instance where the cost of the service taken individually was actually lower than when it was part of a package.
Consider phone safety. Cable VoIP and fiber phone service require a battery back-up to use during power outages. These battery backups may be provided or have to be purchased for an additional fee. Additionally, if an outage lasts longer than the battery backup, consumers may be left without a phone for the remainder of the outage. Emergency 911 service varies among technologies. Consumer Reports recommends supplementing VoIP service with basic landline service for use in 911 calls.
Fine-tune by other attributes. Consumer Reports Ratings reveal that providers differ in more than their customers' overall satisfaction. Consumers should determine which TV providers carry programming they desire. Keep in mind that fiber and satellite usually have a termination fee but cable does not.

How to Get the Best Price

Check rates, then check again. Consumers should scour the provider's Web site for the best deals, and ask a customer rep if the price quoted is the company's absolute best offer. Consider checking again. Consumer Reports found that rates could change, seemingly by the representative who took the call.
Negotiate. It can pay off, particularly in areas where there's competition between a cable provider and a traditional telephone company, and when a promotional rate is expiring. Ask for a reduced price or free extras, such as installation or a premium channel at no cost.
Ask for sample bills. Before finalizing a deal, ask for a summary of all charges for the first and subsequent months. Confirm that the figures include all taxes and fees, and one-time expenses such as a charge to keep an existing phone number. Try to get all the information in writing. Check the figures later against the actual bills.
Fine-tune extras. As a rule, consumers shouldn't pay more for higher-speed Internet service unless they are doing a lot of downloading or sharing of lengthy videos or other very large files. Most VoIP and fiber-based phone plans include caller ID, answering service, and unlimited local and long-distance calling in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, and sometimes other countries. Check that these features don't disappear or that the bill doesn't increase once the promotional period ends.

The complete report and Ratings are available in the February 2009 issue of Consumer Reports.

Verizon Business Rolls Out Enhancements to VoIP

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:39:12 GMT

Enterprise customers will be able to get a bigger bang for their VoIP buck by leveraging several enhancements to Verizon Business' leading global VoIP portfolio.

New capabilities announced Thursday (Dec. 4) include:

A new Verizon VoIP Interoperability Lab where customers can test drive the compatibility of their premises equipment with Verizon's VoIP or IP Contact Center products.
Certification of an additional Nortel IP PBX for Verizon's IP Trunking offering.
Availability in Europe of automatic call rerouting for VoIP customers, to provide business-continuity benefits unavailable in a traditional voice-communications environment.

Verizon VoIP Lab Offers Test Drive

To help U.S. customers advance the use of VoIP, Verizon Business is introducing a lab environment next month where they can test the compatibility and capabilities of customer premises equipment that has not been certified with the Verizon VoIP or IP Contact Center portfolios. By participating in the Verizon VoIP Interoperability Lab, a company can test drive virtually any piece of equipment -- for example, an IP PBX or a Premise Session Border Controller -- during a two-week trial period, using a simple Internet connection and Verizon VoIP or IPCC service (including IP Toll Free and IP Interactive Voice Response). Following a successful trial, customers can then elect to contract for VoIP or IPCC, using their CPE. The Verizon VoIP Interoperability Lab supports multiple services across the enterprise for large-business and government customers.

New IP PBX Platform Affords Greater Choice and Capability

For customers who choose to work with IP PBX equipment that has already been rigorously tested and certified as compatible with the Verizon VoIP portfolio, Verizon Business is adding a new IP PBX platform from industry leader Nortel. The Nortel Communications Server 1000 Release 5.5, a cornerstone of Nortel's Unified Communications platform, offers customers a mobile and highly flexible unified communications technology designed to be the most energy efficient available. Nortel delivers industry-leading unified communications solutions and is the only company to have delivered more than 80 million voice lines and 80 million data ports to its global customers.

The new offering is available to customers in the U.S. and Europe, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Ireland, Italy and Sweden.

Automatic Call Rerouting Helps Maintain Business Continuity

The company is also expanding the availability of its Inbound Failover feature, enabling Verizon IP Trunking and Verizon Integrated Access customers in Europe to benefit from this capability, which previously had been available only to U.S.-based companies. The feature is now available in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Ireland, Italy and Sweden to customers who use Private IP with VoIP.

Inbound Failover automatically forwards calls to another IP address in the event of unforeseen circumstances, a cost-effective feature that will provide business-continuity benefits not available to customers using traditional TDM services.

As a result, customers can leverage load-balancing capabilities that enable them to distribute traffic between IP terminations, enhancing utilization of failover resources. Together, Inbound Failover and load balancing can provide a cost-effective business continuity solution.

Verizon Business is a leader in developing and delivering IP solutions helping large businesses and government agencies transition to VoIP on their own path and pace. Verizon VoIP solutions enable high-quality voice communications in a converged network environment, leveraging Verizon Business' vast national and international footprint and a wide range of innovative features. The Verizon VoIP portfolio also allows customers to use their existing infrastructure, enabling them to mix and match services, whether network or premises-based.

Verizon Adds Features to Streamline Processes and Expand Choice

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 20:26:44 GMT

Wholesale customers now have more choices when they purchase Verizon Business' Advanced Toll Free service. Verizon Business is adding an IP termination service, available immediately on a limited basis, to the company's switchless-termination and dedicated-termination toll free services, which use traditional telephony technology.

Wholesale telecommunication providers sell each segment of a telephone call -- access, transport and termination -- individually.

The move to offer an IP-based toll-free termination option comes as wholesale customers and their customers transition to an all-IP network architecture, driven by growth in IP applications such as VoIP.

This service comes with new online features -- via Verizon's wholesale Web portal, Portfolio -- that allow access to electronic order-entry systems, call-detail records and online bill presentation.

With these enhancements to Advanced Toll Free service also come new rating options: Access-Based Billing and Operating Company Number-Based Billing. OCN rates are based on the underlying local exchange carrier and geographic region for delivering voice and IP calls over the Verizon Business global network. Both these billing services enable wholesale customers to better manage costs.

The recently upgraded Toll Free Order Management system is available through Portfolio to Advanced Toll Free customers to enable them to easily view, create, manage and deactivate toll-free records in near real-time. In addition, Portfolio provides access to Toll Free Network Manager, which allows customers to view current call routing plans and customize features on a near real-time basis.

Advanced Toll Free service also now provides electronic call-detail records, available either through Portfolio (on a daily or more frequent basis) or through a direct network connection that allows continuous streaming of information.

With these changes, customers now have the choice of receiving bills either in paper format or the more environmentally friendly electronic invoice format, which supports a company's green initiatives.

Product features for Advanced Toll Free service include call blocking, national toll free listing, disconnect message referral, automatic number identification delivery and dialed number information service. Advanced Toll Free customers also can select from a number of call-routing features such as geographic routing, time-of-day routing, percent-allocation routing and sequential routing.

Service availability for Advanced Toll Free includes calls that originate from all 50 states and Canada with extended service to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, and terminate on a global basis.

Verizon Business offers a wide array of wholesale voice and data services sold by Verizon Partner Solutions and Verizon Business International Partner Solutions.

Verizon's International Calling Plan Lets Consumers Call 118 Countries

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:38:09 GMT

Verizon customers who make frequent calls from their home phone to other countries can now add the Verizon International Single Rate plan to their service and get great rates for up to 500 minutes of calling a month.

Customers with a Verizon Freedom voice plan can add the International Single Rate plan for $10 per month for 300 minutes (five hours) or $15 per month for 500 minutes (more than eight hours). Verizon Freedom Essentials is a common component of Verizon's bundled offerings of voice, broadband Internet and video services.

Customers who do not have a Verizon Freedom voice plan can enroll in the International Single Rate plan for $14.99 per month for 300 minutes or $19.99 per month for 500 minutes.

The International Single Rate plan allows customers in the U.S. to make calls to 118 countries, including those that are called most frequently - Mexico, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Italy, Germany and Israel. (Unlimited calls to Canada are included in Freedom calling plans.)

On average, more than 8 million international calls are made per month on Verizon's landline network - with 99.9 percent reliability. In a recent study conducted by KRC Research for Verizon, nearly 100 percent of respondents said voice quality, audio volume, voice clarity and tone are important reasons why they prefer to place calls from a fixed landline phone.

Customers with the Verizon International Single Rate plan who exceed their minutes, call wireless phone numbers served by a cellular carrier in another country, or call countries not included in the plan will pay additional charges at competitive rates, on a per-minute-of-use basis.

Verizon Adds SIP Gateway Outbound Service to VoIP Portfolio

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:10:57 GMT

Verizon wholesale customers can now enjoy quicker service turn-up, simplified network configuration, expanded calling options and increased flexibility when ordering. These benefits are provided by Verizon Business' newly introduced SIP Gateway Outbound Service.

This latest addition to the company's VoIP product suite uses virtual rather than traditional physical trunking, enabling faster initiation of service, faster changes in capacity and faster long-distance call processing.

Jim Tyrrell, vice president of voice product management for Verizon, said, "As the VoIP market becomes more mature, we're broadening and strengthening our VoIP product offerings. SIP Gateway Outbound Service is another step toward enabling our wholesale VoIP customers to benefit from increased productivity, efficiency and convenience."

This latest VoIP product allows calls to originate from Internet formats URI and URL as well as the traditional numbering format.

SIP Gateway Service Outbound also adds the security mechanism Remote Party ID as an accepted signaling configuration to the P-asserted ID signaling configuration, which is already available.

In addition to SIP Gateway Outbound Service, Verizon Business SIP Gateway Services are available in three other configurations: Inbound Complete, Two-Way Local and Two-Way Complete. Since Verizon launched its wholesale VoIP products in 2005, growth of VoIP minutes has reached billions of minutes annually.

Wholesale products are sold by Verizon Partner Solutions and Verizon Business International Partner Solutions.

Verizon Business VoIP Receives Top Honors from Frost & Sullivan

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 20:16:02 GMT

Verizon Business has earned the 2008 North American Frost & Sullivan Award for Product Line Strategy for its leadership in developing and delivering hosted IP telephony and voice-over-IP access services. The award is presented by the leading analyst firm each year to a company that has demonstrated the most insight into customer needs and product demands.

The award also singles out Verizon Business for working with customers to offer hybrid solutions -- combinations of services from the company's VoIP portfolio that enable customers to create a single, network-based solution to meet their business needs. The award notes the particular benefit this versatility presents to customers with more complex networks.

In selecting Verizon Business, Frost & Sullivan also credited the company for offering a unified communications platform that integrates voice communications. Verizon Business' Integrated Communications Package -- available for customers of Hosted IP Centrex, part of Verizon Business' VoIP portfolio -- provides a dynamic hub where employees can access voice mail, control incoming and outgoing calls, manage their online presence, send text messages, and synchronize contacts and calendars. Ideal for managing communications and enhancing collaboration and productivity, Integrated Communications Package is available in the U.S. and will soon be available in Europe.

Moreover, Frost & Sullivan cited the wide array of professional and managed services available to Verizon Business customers. Verizon Business' professional services experts are instrumental in helping organizations navigate the complexity of moving from the traditional legacy voice world to voice over IP. In addition, the company provides a complementary set of managed network, managed hosting and managed services offerings, managing and maintaining more than 4,000 customer networks and over 260,000 communications devices around the world.

Finally, Verizon Business' service level agreements and a wide range of customer premises equipment options and vendors were named as contributing factors for Frost & Sullivan's recognition.

Verizon Business Enhances Traditional Voice and VoIP Call Records

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 18:09:36 GMT

Verizon Business wholesale customers now can take advantage of new enhancements to traditional voice and VoIP call records, providing greater granularity of call information. Wholesale customers can gain additional detail about the costs of a call for their international termination services, enabling added control over expenses. These rating enhancements take into account the rising number of international vendors and provide increased granularity of costs related to international mobile termination and special charges within specific geographic regions.

Wholesale customers also can take advantage of added information in the call-detail record as well as improved layout. Changes include expanded field lengths as well as new fields for additional detail that, in turn, increase the wholesale customers' ability to manage their e-billing activity, track costs, and match their daily CDRs to their monthly invoice. As a result of these CDR refinements, wholesale customers will have the ability to increase their competitive edge.

Later this summer, Verizon Business also will begin providing consolidated invoice reports for wholesale international termination services, allowing customers to view, monitor and audit call information -- all from one report. This report will be consolidated for both traditional voice and VoIP calls, saving wholesale customers valuable time by streamlining their call analysis process.

Verizon Business offers a wide array of wholesale voice and data services sold by Verizon Partner Solutions and Verizon Business International Partner Solutions.

Verizon Business Recognized for Outstanding VoIP Innovation

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 21:07:38 GMT

A new on-demand networking service that enables Verizon Business IP Trunking customers to improve the efficiency of their VoIP networks has been recognized by Technology Marketing Corporation's publication INTERNET TELEPHONY as a 2008 TMC Labs Innovation Award winner.

The Verizon Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks (BEST) service enables IP Trunking customers in the U.S. to use idle VoIP trunk capacity in one location to accommodate an increase in traffic from another location. The BEST service capability helps customers better manage their local and long-distance traffic by sharing capacity on demand. This offering, introduced in December 2007, is currently available in 350 U.S. metropolitan markets to customers with select IP Trunking plans.

Verizon IP Trunking, a service that connects switching systems, uses SIP signaling and an IP private branch exchange to translate VoIP to time division multiplexing (TDM) and TDM to VoIP calls. This flexibility allows customers to harness the power of VoIP by easily replacing traditional TDM trunk lines provided through the public-switched telephone network.

"Verizon has demonstrated to the staff of TMC Labs that BEST for IP Trunking is indeed truly innovative in the IP communications industry," said TMC President Rich Tehrani. "BEST for IP Trunking has made contributions which have resulted in significant advancement to the industry."

Tom Keating, chief technology officer and editorial director of TMC Labs, added, "The Innovation Awards exemplify the best and the most unique products and services that this industry has to offer. Verizon Business has proven its commitment to quality and the further development of the IP communications industry through its BEST for IP Trunking. I look forward to seeing more innovative solutions from Verizon Business as it continues to contribute to the future of IP communications."

The TMC Labs Innovation Awards honor products that display innovation, unique features, and significant contributions toward improving communications technology. The TMC Labs Innovation Awards are granted not necessarily to the best-selling products, but instead to those demonstrating ground-breaking contributions to the industry.

The INTERNET TELEPHONY TMC Labs 2008 Innovation Award highlights will be published in the July and August issues of INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine.

Verizon Business offers an extensive VoIP portfolio comprised of IP Flexible T1 (available only in the U.S.), IP Integrated Access, IP Trunking, Hosted IP Centrex and Managed IP PBX. These services enable high-quality voice communications in a converged network environment, leveraging Verizon Business' vast national and international footprint and a wide range of innovative features. Multinational companies can take advantage of Verizon VoIP services in the U.S., France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom, with further expansion planned over the next two months to Italy, Spain, Sweden and Ireland.

Verizon Business is a leader in developing and delivering IP solutions that help large businesses and government agencies transition to VoIP on their own path and pace. By offering new and advanced capabilities such as BEST, Verizon Business can help customers more simply adopt VoIP while making their IP networks work harder and smarter to meet their business objectives.

Verizon Business Expands VoIP portfolio

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:54:44 GMT

Verizon Business is expanding and strengthening its unified communications services to help multinational companies, faced with dramatically rising travel costs, collaborate better and improve their business processes.

Unified communications uses Internet protocol networks to integrate various systems, media, devices and applications, allowing for more effective and efficient communications. At the NXTcomm'08 trade show, Verizon Business is announcing the following new features and capabilities of the company's suite of unified communications and collaboration offerings:

Expansion of the Verizon VoIP portfolio, which provides a foundation for unified communications, to four more European countries -- Spain, Italy, Ireland and Sweden -- bringing the total to 10.
International expansion of the company's Integrated Communications Package, part of the UC platform, to 10 countries in Europe in local languages and integration with Verizon Conferencing for more efficient collaboration. The service was originally introduced to U.S. customers in August 2007.
Employment of the newest Microsoft Office Live Meeting platform for Verizon Net Conferencing, including a redesigned interface and support for live video. In addition, Verizon Business is introducing enhanced Web-based tools to better manage conference calls.

With the expansion of its VoIP portfolio in Europe rolling out over the next two months, Verizon Business will make its enhanced ICP offering available to hosted-VoIP customers in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg, Spain, Italy, Ireland and Sweden. The enhancements will allow corporate employees to more efficiently manage their voice and data communications. From a single user interface, workers can control incoming and outgoing calls, access a single unified voice mail, manage their online presence, send instant messages, synchronize their contacts and calendars, and expand their mobility and teleworking capabilities, including softphone functionality.

ICP users will also be able to manage conference-call scheduling and manage presence to initiate Instant Meeting and Net Conference calls by seeing who is available to invite and participate. They will also be able to import conferencing meeting subscriptions, "drag and drop" conference participants into a meeting scheduler, and schedule single or recurring audio and Net conferences.

Net Conferencing powered by Office Live Meeting makes it easier for large businesses and government organizations to experience the benefits of Web conferencing, whether users are conducting simple impromptu collaboration sessions, formal Web-based meetings, advanced online training or large communication events. Verizon Business is rolling out the new version in phases, and it should be available to all Net Conferencing customers by the end of the summer.

To make conferencing even easier, new Web-based audio conferencing tools will replace the need to download software or plug-ins. Web Moderator for Instant Meeting and Meeting View for moderated conference calls are now available in HTML format. These enhancements are available to customers around the world, with versions in French, German and Japanese becoming available later this summer.

Verizon Business this year will continue to build upon its portfolio of solutions to bring together industry-leading customer premises equipment, software and network-based components to enable enterprises to take full advantage of unified communications and collaboration services.

Verizon Business' IP Networking Powers Thing5 SaaS Offering

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:06:47 GMT

Thing5 is leveraging Verizon Business' industry-leading VoIP and hosting services to offer voice and messaging services for hotel employees and guests. Under an agreement with Verizon Business, Thing5 is providing its hosted platform via a software-as-a-service model to approximately 1,300 hotels, covering more than 275,000 phones. Hospitality chains such as Extended Stay Hotels, La Quinta and the luxury boutique hotel collection LXR Luxury Resorts & Hotels outsource the provisioning, management and maintenance of voice and messaging platforms that serve corporate end-users and guests at each individual property.

With the SaaS model, applications such as voice mail, automatic call distribution, audio conferencing, faxing and instant messaging are hosted by a vendor rather than the customer, and delivered as managed IP services over the Web, helping to control setup and operational costs. Customers pay for the computing resources utilized, making the model highly attractive to the hospitality industry.

Verizon Business provides the IP trunking that connects hotel properties to Thing5 data centers. A newly available Verizon Business service, Burstable Enterprise Shared Trunks, enables on-demand sharing of under-utilized trunk capacity. Verizon Business is the only major North American service provider to offer this VoIP capability to quickly shift bandwidth capacity.

Thing5 also uses Verizon Business hosting to augment its own facilities, thereby enabling load balancing of traffic and providing redundancy to strengthen business continuity.

Verizon VoIP solutions enable high-quality voice communications in a converged network environment, leveraging Verizon Business' vast national and international footprint and a wide range of innovative features. Verizon Business is a leader in developing and delivering IP solutions helping large businesses and government agencies transition to VoIP on their own path and pace. The VoIP services also allow customers to use their existing infrastructure, enabling them to mix and match services, whether network or premises-based.

Verizon Helps Connect Iraq-Based Troops with Families at Home

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:35:39 GMT

Verizon Business is expanding its use of technology to help U.S. military personnel based in Iraq stay in touch with their families at home. The company, for the fifth consecutive year, is providing free calling for Iraq-based troops May 8-14 in honor of Mother's Day; June 12-18 for Father's Day; and July 2-8 for Independence Day. The calls home are made possible through a state-of-the-art Verizon Business mobile communications vehicle currently deployed in Iraq.

Face-to-Face Reunions

Verizon Business also is teaming with Cisco, Wal-Mart and the USO to provide free video connections between two bases in Iraq and two Wal-Mart stores. Verizon Business is providing the Internet protocol connections for Cisco's lifelike immersive video technology, known as Cisco TelePresence. Special Cisco TelePresence rooms are available at Wal-Mart stores located near Camp Pendleton, Calif., and Fort Drum, N.Y., between April 2 and July 6.

Cisco TelePresence replicates face-to-face interaction so realistically that it feels as if everyone is sitting in the same room. The high-quality audio and high-definition video will operate over the Verizon Business Private IP network.

Support for USO Expands

In addition, Verizon Business is joining Thursday May 8 with the USO of Metropolitan Washington for the opening of the organization's new lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.The USO provides services and programs free of charge to enhance the military community's quality of life. Verizon Business is a Premier Partner of the new lounge and is also a USO-Metro Partner at the USO International Gateway Lounge at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, as well as the newly opened USO Lounge at Washington Dulles International Airport.

In addition to helping fund the lounges, Verizon Business also provides free phone calling anywhere in the world via Wi-Fi wireless phones using Verizon Business voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) service available in the USO lounges. Verizon Business also provides free dedicated Internet access at both Dulles and Reagan airports so members of the armed services can stay in touch with their loved ones via e-mail or pass time surfing the Internet.

Verizon Business is the first USO-Metro Partner to provide financial support to the USO lounges in all three Washington DC-area airports.

View a video on Verizon Business's work with the USO.

Verizon Business is the largest provider of communications services to the U.S. federal government and one of the largest providers of advanced communications and information technology services globally. The company offers local-to-global network capabilities coupled with a broad range of telecommunications products and services - including advanced Internet protocol services, managed network services and systems integration - to all levels of government. With this broad portfolio of services, Verizon Business can provide federal agencies with one-stop shopping for their communications or connectivity needs. The company has built the next-generation services that are helping to transform the way government customers - and their constituents - do business.

Survey Shows Consumers Continue to Rely on Landline Voice Services

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:27:49 GMT

American consumers have a wide array of choices for personal communication services, but, when it comes to their home, an overwhelming majority -- including those who have a cell phone -- say they plan to keep and continue using their landline home phone indefinitely. Most often the service's proven reliability and safety were given as reasons in a new nationwide survey commissioned by Verizon.

The telephone survey, conducted by KRC Research last month, polled more than 800 consumers aged 18 and over who pay their landline phone bill. It found that:

Eighty-three percent of the respondents intend to continue using their landline home phone indefinitely -- a strong vote of consumer confidence for landline voice service in a survey group that included a large number of participants who also have a cell phone (74 percent).
Ninety-four percent of the respondents cited reliability and 91 percent cited safety as the key factors for retaining landline service.
Seventy-six percent of landline phone owners use their landline phone every day.

Verizon's landline network processes more than 1 billion calls a day, with 99.9 percent reliability.

Consumers Value Voice Quality, Reliability and Consistency of Service

Reflecting the significant amount of technological improvements and preventive maintenance that Verizon routinely performs on its landline network, 92 percent of respondents said they are satisfied with their landline phone service.

Ninety-eight percent of landline users consider their connection to be reliable on a typical day, and 91 percent rate their connection as reliable even on days when the weather is inclement. In 2007, Verizon invested $11 billion in its landline network, and has pumped $43.4 billion into its landline network over the past five years.

Not surprisingly, nearly 100 percent of those surveyed said voice quality - audio volume, voice clarity and tone - is important when making phone calls, and eight of 10 landline owners said voice quality is very important.

Survey respondents included users of many different cell phone services. Three-quarters (74 percent) said their landline home phone trumped their mobile phone in terms of voice quality, reliability and consistency of service.

Landline Loyalty Key to Verizon Bundling Strategy

In order to realize the most value for their spending, nearly two-thirds of consumers -- including people who live in urban areas, younger adults and those who earn more than $75,000 annually - say they would consider bundling their landline home phone with television, Internet services and wireless plans. In fact, those who have both a landline and cellular phone are more likely than those without a cellular phone to bundle their communication services, the survey found.

Verizon offers competitive pricing on bundles of broadband and entertainment services including its High Speed Internet service, FiOS Internet and FiOS TV, along with a convenient billing option for Verizon Wireless customers. By year-end 2007, bundled services continued to attract and retain Verizon customers, with more than half of all new customers choosing a bundle.

Dependability a key quality of traditional service

Nearly half of the landline phone owners surveyed said they would feel unsafe if their home did not have a landline connection, reflecting the importance of having a phone they know will be ready to dial at a moment's notice.

Typical reasons those surveyed gave for staying true to their landline home phone include: "My telephone line is my lifeline." "That's the one I use the most and it doesn't have to be recharged." "It's most ready in case of an emergency." "It gives me security that I can reach 911." "When the electricity goes out I can still use the landline phone." And, "I can depend on it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."

The survey revealed that women, senior citizens, middle-income earners ($50,000 to $75,000 annually) and those living outside of metropolitan areas are more likely to continue using their landline phones indefinitely.

Eighty-eight percent of respondents in the survey said they owned cordless landline phones; 61 percent own a corded landline phone; and 49 percent own both types. Consumers who use only a traditional corded phone in their residence are more likely than those with only a cordless phone to want to keep their phone indefinitely, and they could not imagine living without their landline phone, according to the survey.

Eighty-seven percent of females, versus 80 percent of males, plan to continue using their landline phone for the foreseeable future, whereas 90 percent of persons older than 65 said they will keep their landline phone forever as opposed to 82 percent of those under the age of 65.

Aastra Certified by Verizon Business for Hosted VoIP

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:55:44 GMT

Aastra announced that Verizon Business has certified Aastra’s award-winning line of 5xi SIP telephones based on the Session Initiation Protocol for use with its Hosted IP Centrex service offering. Adding Aastra’s SIP phones to Verizon Business’s portfolio of VoIP Customer Premises Equipment provides new and existing Verizon Business customers with greater flexibility and choice.

All of Aastra’s open standard SIP telephones underwent stringent lab testing required by Verizon Business to meet the high performance and reliability standards for products certified for its Hosted IP Centrex platform.

Products approved for launch will include Aastra’s entire 5xi family of telephones which is highlighted by the 57i CT; Aastra’s large screen 57i telephone with a built in Cordless Telephone. The 57i CT allows an end user the ability to use the CT within a 300 foot radius of the 57i CT telephone. Combining CT and IP phone technology is ideal for warehouse managers and retail workers or anywhere an in-building mobility solution is required.

The field launch of the Aastra SIP telephone family expands an ongoing CPE relationship that Aastra has developed with Verizon Business for over 15 years. Customers around the world enjoy using Aastra Digital Centrex terminals on the Verizon Business network and now those same customers can choose Aastra SIP phones as they transition to Hosted IP Centrex.

Pasadena City College Taps into Verizon Business VoIP

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:52:05 GMT

Pasadena City College students and faculty will be able to tap the power of converged VoIP communications and wireless Internet access under a two-year, $6.7 million agreement. Under the contract with the Pasadena Area Community College District, Verizon Business will install and manage a new campuswide network that will support the current and future needs of about 30,000 students and faculty. The pact also includes deployment of a premises-based VoIP platform, as well as on-site technical support, and managed and professional services. Additionally, Verizon Business will provide the student population with Wi-Fi access throughout the campus, which covers 53 acres and 30 buildings. Installation of the new converged IP network is under way.

Verizon Business will help the college migrate from its existing time division multiplex network to a next-generation VoIP network. This new converged IP network can handle large amounts of traffic -- voice, data and video -- while eliminating the need for separate voice and data networks. As part of the upgrade of the campus infrastructure, Verizon Business will install advanced switching gear and a unified communications system for voice mail and e-mail on campus.

The Pasadena Area Community College District, established in 1966, is located in the West San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County.

Verizon Business to Provide Free Calls on Valentine's Day for U.S. Troops in Iraq

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 19:37:50 GMT

Doing its part to help spread the love on Valentine's Day, Verizon Business is again providing free phone calls for U.S. Armed Forces personnel stationed in Iraq. The calls home are made possible through a state-of-the-art Verizon Business mobile communications vehicle currently deployed to Iraq. Verizon Business will make the facility available to military personnel on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, and during the entire week -- from Feb. 12 through 18.

"For our troops serving in Iraq, hearing the voice of a loved one on special days can go a long way to lift the spirits," said Susan Zeleniak, group president, Verizon Federal. "Verizon Business has made it a tradition to help the troops stay connected with their families and friends in appreciation for the sacrifices they make every day."

Verizon Business, as a leading communications provider to the federal government, makes technology, resources and employee support available throughout the year to military personnel and their families around the world.

Verizon Business Simplifies Move to IP

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 21:09:59 GMT

Verizon Business is expanding its already extensive portfolio of managed network services that simplify the transition to Internet protocol communications.

Verizon Business now offers Managed IP PBX on the Nortel IP telephony platform, combining the reliability, flexibility and simplicity of Nortel's portfolio with Verizon Business' end-to-end network management, PBX expertise and advanced monitoring systems. This new managed IP PBX offering provides large-business and government customers another strong option for smoothly moving to an advanced and integrated IP-based communications system by simply adding a new server and updated software. The offering will be available to U.S.-based large-business and government customers next month.

The Nortel-based offerings, leveraging the Nortel Communication Server 1000 IP-PBX, Business Communications Manager and CallPilot platforms, enable advanced voice applications such as "find me, follow me," and integrated communications that allow for multimedia collaboration. They also help companies move to a unified communications platform to simplify and integrate a variety of business communications functions such as voice mail, e-mail and instant messaging. For example, end-users can see who is online, or they can prompt the system to prioritize incoming messages and send alerts to end-user devices.

Verizon Business' support for the offering includes full implementation, as well as management of fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security functions. The company's managed approach enables businesses to help reduce the complexity associated with a converged IP telephony environment.

Vonage and Verizon Resolve Patent Dispute

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 21:37:40 GMT

In June 2006, Verizon brought a lawsuit against Vonage to enforce several Verizon patents relating to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.

In March 2007, a jury held that Vonage is infringing three valid Verizon patents. The jury awarded $58 million in damages. The trial judge subsequently issued an injunction which was stayed pending Vonage's appeal.

In September 2007, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the trial court's decisions on infringement, validity, and injunction as to two of the Verizon patents (the '574 and '711) and remanded as to the third patent (the '880). Vonage filed a petition for rehearing which is pending in the Court of Appeals.

Today the parties have agreed to resolve the patent lawsuit. The terms of the resolution depend on how the Court of Appeals decides Vonage's pending petition for rehearing regarding two of the Verizon patents (the '574 and '711). If Vonage wins rehearing on either the '574 or '711 patent or if the injunction is vacated as to the '574 or '711 patent, Vonage will pay Verizon $80 million. If Vonage does not win rehearing on either the '574 or '711 patent, or if the stay is lifted reinstating the injunction, Vonage will pay Verizon $117.5 million.

The parties are pleased to have resolved this matter.

Verizon Earns Top Spot as Wholesale VoIP Provider

VoIP Monitor — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 19:19:21 GMT

Verizon received high marks from its customers to secure the spot as top wholesale VoIP provider, reflected in research by ATLANTIC-ACM, a leading telecommunications research consultancy and benchmarking firm. The company earned the top ranking in the Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier category of the Best in Class Wholesale Metro products. The announcement was made Monday (Oct. 8) at the CompTel PLUS Fall 2007 Convention and EXPO in Grapevine, where ATLANTIC-ACM announced its 2007 Global Wholesale Carrier Excellence Awards.

The awards, presented by Dr. Judy Reed Smith, CEO of ATLANTIC-ACM, were based on results from the 2007 edition of the ATLANTIC-ACM Metro Report Card and reflected input from more than 850 individual customers on the performance of wholesale providers in such areas as product quality, price, quality of service and ease of doing business.

"Verizon more than doubled their '06 metro score for wholesale VoIP," said Fedor Smith, vice president for ATLANTIC-ACM. "It is great to see a major carrier receiving high scores for their contribution to this relatively new and rapidly expanding product segment."

Verizon announced its VoIP product suite in August 2005 with the accelerated introduction of its Carrier IP Termination product and SIP Gateway Service. A month later, Verizon added the SIP-based Carrier IP Termination product. The company continued to enhance its VoIP products over the next two years, adding such features as eBonding and Web-based capabilities, directory assistance, operator services, Foreign Telephone Number Assignment, robust fraud detection and seasonal pricing.

"Verizon launched this product suite two years ago in response to wholesale customer demand," said Mike Yancey, director of wholesale voice product management for Verizon. "We're pleased by our No. 1 ranking, which confirms our efforts are successful in meeting the customers' needs. We'll continue to look for ways to improve these award-winning VoIP products."

Wholesale products are sold by Verizon Partner Solutions and Verizon Business International Partner Solutions.

Verizon Links Landline and Verizon Wireless Services

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:10:31 GMT

The best in landline calling and wireless services are now combined for customers who choose the newest calling plan from Verizon. Beginning today, customers within Verizon's landline service area can bundle home and wireless calling in a simple package and get cool calling features and unlimited calling between their home and their Verizon Wireless phone - all on a single bill at prices starting at $59.99 a month.

"The new calling plans provide the convergence that lets customers who are new to wireless or those who have been all-wireless create a total connection for themselves and their families," said John Stratton, Verizon's chief marketing officer. "Modern living demands total connectedness voice and data, home and away and this new initiative delivers."

The plans offer new levels of simplicity and affordability. The single bill for both services is a key convenience factor frequently requested by customers. Verizon has added additional value by offering unlimited calling between the landline and the Verizon Wireless phone.

"Making calls on the two best networks in the country at a great price locks in the value customers want from a combined calling plan," Stratton said.

The integrated calling plans can be coupled with Verizon's broadband and entertainment offers as well, creating three- and four-service bundles.

The plans start at $59.99 a month in most markets. The wireless service includes 200 minutes of calling on a Verizon Wireless phone with unlimited IN (in-network) Calling between Verizon Wireless customers, and unlimited home-to-mobile phone calling. The landline service is the Verizon Freedom Value calling plan, which allows unlimited nationwide landline calling. All services appear on a single bill. Prices can vary by state.

For about $15 more per month, customers can instead get 450 any-time minutes, Unlimited Night and Weekend Minutes and Unlimited IN Calling from Verizon Wireless; and Verizon Freedom Essentials, the landline unlimited domestic-calling plan, which includes the top three calling features - Caller ID, Call Waiting and Home Voice Mail. Other Verizon Wireless services, such as Family Share calling plans, can be linked to the landline offer at additional cost.

The new calling plans can be ordered through Verizon call centers, Verizon Wireless stores, Verizon Experience Stores, Verizon Plus Stores and online at www.verizon.com/together3.

Verizon Business Sharpens Its Edge

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:21:53 GMT

Verizon Business is once again enhancing its already industry-leading suite of service level agreements for Private IP customers by extending its performance commitments for real-time applications, including VoIP and video, beyond the edge of Verizon Business' network all the way to customers' physical locations. Specifically, the company will offer extended jitter, packet delay and packet delivery ratio SLAs to the customer edge, including local access lines.

The new Customer Edge SLAs apply to U.S. and international locations and are available at no additional cost to U.S.-based managed or customer-managed Private IP customers, with availability planned for all Private IP customers by year-end. Verizon Business offers a credit of 20 percent of a customer's monthly recurring charges if any Customer Edge SLA is not met.

"Verizon Business continues to set the pace for excellence in IP networking, and we're standing by our products and customers to deliver one of the most solid and robust foundations for IP success," said Mike Marcellin, vice president of product marketing with Verizon Business. "By building these SLAs directly into our Private IP service and not requiring additional costly equipment, our customers benefit from some of the most stringent service level commitments available today."

Courtney Munroe, vice president with IDC, an industry analyst research firm, said, "Continued growth in real-time voice and video applications over the wide area network has resulted in a need for stronger performance level SLAs. Verizon Business' new Customer Edge SLAs provide a strong commitment to deliver the robust end-to-end performance that global enterprises are demanding."

Jitter represents the variation in packet arrival time between customer locations and can commonly affect a user's satisfaction with real time application performance, such as VoIP and video over IP. Verizon Business' new Customer Edge Jitter SLA provides that the monthly average jitter in the network will remain at an acceptable quality level for voice and video across the enterprise.

Packet delay represents the efficiency of packet delivery between customer sites and can affect the perceived wait-time for users operating specific applications on a network.

The new Packet Delay Customer Edge SLA combines the existing Provider Edge Packet Delay SLA with the length of a customer's local access line to determine a more comprehensive threshold.

Packet delivery ratio measures the effectiveness of transport when taking into account packet loss. The ratio expresses the percentage of packets successfully delivered between customer sites compared with any packets dropped.

The new Packet Delivery Ratio Customer Edge SLA provides additional commitments that priority traffic takes into account packet loss between the Verizon Business network and the customer sites in an effort to retain acceptable packet loss for real-time application transmission. For example, all traffic marked for highest priority (real rime voice), such as VoIP, will receive a 99.99 percent SLA commitment, meaning that customers are eligible for a credit if more than just 0.01 percent of the traffic is dropped.

These new SLAs join Verizon Business' recently announced SLAs available to all Private IP customers, including a mean opinion score SLA of 4.0 to measure voice quality based on an industry-accepted method of listener ratings, and an enhanced time to repair SLA based on the amount of time taken to restore service during an outage, rather than the average or mean time to repair service outages commonly used in the industry.

Verizon Business' Private IP service, available in more than 121 countries and territories, is an ideal platform for converged services, as it allows for prioritization of applications via six classes of service. An organization can customize prioritization so that business-critical applications receive a higher priority across the organization's network. Real time CoS makes Private IP ideal for carrying latency-sensitive traffic such as VoIP and digital video.

Verizon VoIP Product Faster and Easier for Customers

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 20:42:11 GMT

Wholesale customers who use Verizon Business SIP Gateway Service will be able to order service more quickly and efficiently, starting next month. Verizon Business is adding a series of eBonding and Web-based enhancements to the service, enabling customers to easily place, modify and check on their orders. SIP is an Internet-based signaling protocol used for creating, modifying and terminating sessions between two or more users on the Internet.

"Each of the new features we've added to our SIP Gateway Service, part of our comprehensive VoIP product suite, is aimed at streamlining the order and activation process for our wholesale customers, whose needs are robust as well as time-sensitive," said Jim Tyrrell, vice president of voice product management for Verizon. "Making their customer experience as positive as possible is top of mind for us."

One of these enhancements will give wholesale customers round-the-clock access to Verizon Business' eBonding system so they can more quickly and easily place new orders, change existing orders or receive updated status information. (The term "eBonding" refers to the integration of systems between two companies that allows one system to communicate directly with the other.)

Wholesale customers also will have the ability to place orders and check order status on a secure Web site via Portfolio, a Web-based platform. From the secure site, customers can place a majority of their orders, send changes on bulk orders, as well as easily check order status from any computer, at any time, from any location.

With Portfolio's bulk-file upload function, wholesale customers will be able to significantly speed up large orders by sending transactions on a spreadsheet all at once, rather than keying in numerous service orders.

To expedite certain orders even more quickly, wholesale customers will be able to receive a group of allocated telephone numbers that enable them to provide phone numbers to a customer at the time that customer places an order. Previously, wholesale customers only could receive phone numbers after their order was confirmed by Verizon Business.

In addition, wholesale customers with appropriate approval will receive turnkey activation of new telephone numbers in hours rather than days by taking advantage of Verizon Business's fully automated 24 x 7 flow-through ordering process.

Customers also will have the flexibility to designate, either individually or by batch, port activation on the day of installation, giving customers the ability to activate the exact number of SIP Gateway Service ports as needed.

Verizon VoIP Powers Microsoft Windows 'Live Call for Free'

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 20:21:46 GMT

Consumers searching online at http://maps.live.com for businesses such as area restaurants, hotels or car dealerships can now conveniently click to make free PC-to-phone calls to many advertisers, using the power of the Verizon Business IP network.

Windows Live Call for Free from Microsoft uses Verizon Business' advanced VoIP capabilities and expansive global network to give consumers an easy-to-use, convenient and no-cost way to find services they need.

"We continue to deliver on the promise of our strategic alliance with Microsoft by developing and delivering next-generation services," said Nancy Gofus, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Business. "This new service, which adds value for Microsoft advertising partners while enhancing the Live Search experience, is the latest in a long string of innovations that Verizon and Microsoft have brought to market since entering into a global strategic relationship in May 2004."

Brian Arbogast, corporate vice president of the Windows Live Developer & Communication Platform at Microsoft Corp., said, "Together, Microsoft and Verizon Business have built standards-based Web solutions, bringing new applications to life. Because it is a Web-based solution, Windows Live Call for Free allows for the easy integration of voice with other multimedia Web services such as Live Search. These voice-based services are filling a real need today while paving the way for future enhanced service offerings."

Verizon Helps U.S. Troops in Iraq Call Mom and Dad

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:17:41 GMT

In an ongoing effort to help military families and loved ones stay connected around the world, Verizon Business is providing free phone calls during the weeks around Mother's Day, Father's Day and U.S. Independence Day for U.S. military personnel stationed in Iraq.

Verizon Business will provide the free calls from May 10-16 in honor of Mother's Day in the United States; June 14-20 for Father's Day in the United States; and July 1-7 for U.S. Independence Day.

Verizon Business has deployed to Iraq a state-of-the-art mobile communications facility, enabling military personnel to make calls 24-hours-a-day anywhere in the world.

As a leading communications provider to the federal government and the Department of Defense for nearly two decades, Verizon Business leverages its leading-edge technology and global capabilities to support military personnel and their families around the world throughout the year. The company has provided free telephone calls for Iraq-based U.S. Armed Forces personnel for major holidays during the last four years.

In addition, Verizon Business supports the USO of Metropolitan Washington, which provides services and programs free-of-charge to enhance the military community's quality of life.

Verizon Business is a USO-Metro Partner at the USO International Gateway Lounge at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, as well as the newly opened USO Lounge at Washington Dulles International Airport. The company also has teamed with the USO of Metropolitan Washington as the Premier Partner of the new USO Lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. That lounge is expected to open later this year. Verizon Business is the first USO-Metro Partner to provide financial support to the USO lounges in all three area airports.

In addition to providing funding for the lounges, Verizon Business also supports the lounges with free phone calling anywhere in the world via wireless phones using Verizon VoIP service.

Verizon Freedom Calling

Vonage Confident in Appeal

VoIP Monitor — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 20:08:44 GMT

Vonage reaffirmed its confidence in prevailing on appeal and in continuing to meet the needs and expectations of its over 2.2 million subscriber lines despite a ruling March 23 in Verizon's favor and a disproportionately-negative reaction from the market.

"To paraphrase Mark Twain, the rumors of Vonage's death have been greatly exaggerated," said Mike Snyder, Vonage's chief executive officer. "Friday's events represented one small step in what is sure to be a long legal battle.

"The fact is we've been preparing for this verdict and the possibility of an injunction for months," Snyder added. "For the market to react the way it did to the recent rulings shows an unfortunate lack of understanding of the judicial/appellate system, a lack of appreciation of Vonage's resourcefulness, or, perhaps, both. Anyone who's counting Vonage out is making a huge mistake."

If, as expected, the judge enters a permanent injunction against Vonage on April 6, 2007, but fails to grant the company's request to stay the injunction pending its appeal, Vonage will immediately file for a stay with the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. In addition, the company reconfirmed its plan to file a notice of appeal to the Circuit Court of Appeals to set aside the jury verdict which was handed down on March 8, 2007.

"No matter what happens on April 6, the reality is this litigation is going to take years to make its way through the legal system," said Sharon O'Leary, Vonage's executive vice president and chief legal officer. "We are optimistic the trial court judge will stay the injunction. If he doesn't, however, we're very confident the Circuit Court of Appeals will stay the injunction through the entire appeal process.

"And once the case is up on appeal, we are confident that the appellate court will overturn the verdict based on the faulty claim construction of the patents involved." The Circuit Court of Appeals, which will hear the case shortly, has reversed prior verdicts involving flawed claim constructions approximately 40 percent of the time, noted O'Leary. Verizon's overly broad construction of the patent claims was adopted across the board which is unprecedented, given the large number of claim terms.

Vonage's accomplishments continue to validate its business model and strategy. The company has achieved 19 consecutive quarters of double digit revenue growth, doubled revenues to $607 million in 2006 alone, and added nearly 1 million net subscribers last year.

"We're continuing to innovate and provide reliable, affordable phone service to millions of customer lines. And that isn't going to change," Snyder added.

Vonage vs Verizon: $58 million in Damages Plus Royalties

VoIP Monitor — Thu, 08 Mar 2007 21:05:20 GMT

A federal jury dealt a blow to Internet phone company Vonage, ruling that it infringed on patents held by Verizon. Vonage was ordered to pay $58 million in damages, plus royalties on future sales.

However, Vonage is delighted that the jury rejected Verizon's meritless claim that we infringed their two billing patents. Of the seven patents Verizon originally sued on, they prevailed on only three and we expect that verdict to be reversed on appeal. The jury's damage award represents a 70% reduction from Verizon's $197MM claim. The jury also unanimously rejected Verizon's claim that Vonage willfully infringed its patents.

In addition, we don't believe there is any basis to support Verizon's request for an injunction and we will have the opportunity to present our position to the trial court shortly. If the trial court does impose an injunction, we will seek an immediate stay from the Federal Court of Appeals. Vonage's customers should see no change to any aspect of their phone service.

It appears the Vonage Fan Van isn't running on four flat tires and will continue to terrorize people by throwing Vonage boxes at peoples heads.

Study Ranks Verizon Business VoIP No. 1

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 18:24:00 GMT

Verizon Business ranks first in overall strategy for VoIP, according to a recently released Forrester Research study.

The study, "Forrester Wave: US Enterprise-Class VoIP Services, Q1 2007," found that "Verizon Business is best in class on overall voice over Internet protocol VoIP strategy, leading others on technology strategy, planned performance and customer service enhancements, and price."

The findings are particularly significant since businesses are increasingly seeking help transitioning from traditional telecommunications services to IP communications.

"This recognition reinforces our strong performance in this emerging growth area of the telecommunications market," said Tom Roche, vice president of marketing for network voice and data services with Verizon Business. "Verizon Business' expansive global IP network and comprehensive suite of VoIP services enable our customers to make the move to VoIP and leverage IP communications to achieve their specific business goals at their own path and pace."

According to the Forrester Wave report, Verizon Business "offers the broadest portfolio of VoIP services; this provider is the only one among its peers to offer session initiation protocol trunking, hosted VoIP services, managed IP private branch exchange services, IP conferencing, IP toll free, and hosted IP contact center services today. Verizon Business leads its peers on VoIP reliability, scalability, and sales capabilities."

"When taken all together, these factors make Verizon Business a good choice for customers that seek a flexible array of both inbound and outbound VoIP services today and that want a provider that has one of the strongest commitments to enhancing service performance in the months ahead," the report said.

Verizon Business was among the select companies that Forrester invited to participate in its Q1 2007, Forrester WAVE report, "US Enterprise-Class VoIP Services." For its study, Forrester evaluated the strengths and weaknesses across 123 criteria of five nationwide facilities-based service providers.

Check out Verizon VoIP Service .

Verizon's Fuzzy Math

VoIP Monitor — Sat, 09 Dec 2006 00:05:00 GMT

I always love reading and hearing audio clipets of customer service rep's talking to customers. Here's a new one thanks to Verizon and George Vaccaro.

Here's an excerpt of his blog and you can read more at the link above along with hearing the audio conversation.

I have a Verizon unlimited data plan in the U.S. and recently crossed the border to Canada. Pior to crossing the border I called customer service to find out what rates I'd be paying for voice and data. The data rate I was quoted was ".002 cents per kilobyte."

I was surprised at the rate so I confirmed it with the representative I spoke to, and she confirmed it "point zero zero two cents per kilobyte." I asked her to note that in my account.

Verizon Receives Innovation Award for VoIP

VoIP Monitor — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 23:48:50 GMT

Frost & Sullivan has selected Verizon Business to receive the 2006 North American Enterprise VoIP Services Customer Value Enhancement Award. In addition, the firm recently published a report naming Verizon Business as the leading Web conferencing reseller services provider.

"Verizon Business continues to deliver compelling IP-based solutions for the enterprise market," said Lynda Starr, senior analyst, IP communications, for Frost & Sullivan's information and communication technology services. "This sort of focus is essential for service providers to effectively compete by addressing the IP transformation under way today. Businesses benefit from working with a provider that can translate the new capabilities afforded by IP into applications that will enhance business' day-to-day operations and productivity."

Tom Roche, vice president of marketing for Verizon Business' network voice and data services, said: "This recognition by Frost & Sullivan reinforces our IP leadership in delivering next-generation services for large-business and government customers. "We've been a pioneer developing and delivering one of the industry's most comprehensive VoIP portfolios, and, as the leading Web conferencing reseller service provider, we continue to help our customers collaborate more effectively and enhance productivity."

VoIP Customer Value Enhancement Award

The Frost & Sullivan award recognizes Verizon Business' ability to effectively integrate its products and services following the Verizon-MCI merger.

"Verizon continues to show its commitment to the market through product innovation, improved sales and customer processes, and its global IP network," Frost & Sullivan stated. "While some merged companies may slow new product rollouts just prior to and immediately following the close of a merger, this is not the case with Verizon, which continues moving ahead with what its customers need."

Frost & Sullivan said service providers competing for the award for the enterprise VoIP market were judged on their ability to expand their existing customer base by adding new, innovative offerings and how they have positioned their services to create satisfaction among a diverse potential customer base.

Web Conferencing Market Leadership

Frost & Sullivan, in its "World Web Conferencing Markets" study (#F764-64), published in October, named Verizon Conferencing as the leading Web conferencing reseller services provider.

Earlier this year, Verizon Business sponsored a Frost & Sullivan study, "Meetings Around the World: The Impact of Collaboration on Business Performance," that determined that collaboration is a key driver of business performance. The study -- which defined collaboration as an interaction between culture and technology such as audio and net conferencing, e-mail and instant messaging -- also found that professionals around the world see their collaborative efforts as highly productive and believe that collaboration through communications technologies can provide a competitive advantage. Full details of the report can be found at http://newscenter.verizon.com/kit/collaboration/.

Verizon Business is an industry innovator in providing advanced products and services for today's rapidly changing business environment.

Verizon Business' global portfolio of VoIP services includes IP Integrated Access, IP Trunking, Hosted IP Centrex and Managed IP PBX. In addition, Verizon Business offers IP Flexible T1 in the United States. These services leverage a robust, flexible platform that provides a high-quality voice experience, vast international footprint and rich feature set, all of which afford customers a smooth transition to VoIP at their own path and pace with great flexibility. It also allows customers to use their existing infrastructure, allowing them to mix and match solutions, whether network or premises-based.

Verizon Business, through its expansive global network, is a leading provider of conferencing and collaboration services worldwide, enabling organizations to conveniently and effectively collaborate, virtually anytime, anywhere, and helping them improve response time and productivity, without the costs associated with business travel. Verizon Business is a pioneer in the conferencing business, with more than 20 years' experience delivering conferencing services. Verizon Business today handles millions of meetings a month, offering the convenience of one-stop shopping and a wide range of global customized products and services, including audio, video and net conference services, IP-based services and some of the most advanced meeting tools available.

Verizon to Give Away 50 Alienware Computers in 50 Days

VoIP Monitor — Fri, 10 Nov 2006 21:08:06 GMT

Verizon launched its “50 Aliens in 50 Days” computer giveaway sweepstakes to promote the company’s PlayLinc online game messenger. Beginning today and running for 50 days through Dec. 29, Verizon will give away one Alienware Aurora 3500 gaming computer with 17-inch flat-panel monitor to one Verizon PlayLinc user each day. Participants can find out more about how to register for each day’s giveaway
at www.verizon.net/50aliens.

Always free, extremely entertaining and very easy to use, Verizon PlayLinc is a superior game browser and messaging service that allows consumers to use free private servers to play games online and communicate with friends. PlayLinc can be used with any broadband connection, but customers of Verizon’s fiber-based FiOS Internet Service will benefit from the power of a super-high-speed fiber connection directly to their homes.

“From beginners to experienced players, Verizon PlayLinc is the ideal product for anyone who wants to play games online,” said Jason Henderson, games product manager for Verizon. “Our ‘50 Aliens in 50 Days’ computer giveaway gives online gamers a great incentive to try PlayLinc and experience its benefits for themselves. We’re sure that once gamers try PlayLinc, they’ll be hooked.”

Designed to help PC and console gamers find, play and chat with each other online, Verizon PlayLinc’s innovative features include:

Free Private Servers: Gamers can set up and use high-speed private servers for free and invite only the people they want to play with. This makes PlayLinc perfect for novices just starting out, or for serious players who want a certain level of competition.
VoIP Functionality: PlayLinc’s VoIP capability lets players talk directly to their friends, both in and out of a game. This helps teammates communicate during popular squad-based games or MMOs.
AOL Instant Messenger Integration: PlayLinc lets players easily round-up and chat with friends on-screen with AOL Instant Messenger.