Security a 'key concern' for VoIP providers

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) considering deploying a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network in their workplace have been reassured that the providers of the systems view security as paramount.

Recent reports have highlighted supposed emerging problems which could allow unauthorised people to listen in on calls, but secure networks provider Enterasys Networks has said that these are easily preventable by providers using existing security technologies.

Luckily for SMEs thinking of using VoIP for their office communications, this will likely be the case by their provider as Brian Riggs, research director for enterprise communications at Current Analysis, said: "Security is among the top concerns of enterprises deploying voice over IP systems today."

Best practice according to Mr Riggs is to make sure the network uses software which "detects unauthorised use of VoIP systems, prevents service disruption and eavesdropping and monitors voice networks for new threats".

Companies may find that they receive an added boost to their security by integrated their data and voice services onto the same network.

By having such a unified communications solution, their network administrators and VoIP providers can run checks on both systems from one location and keep tabs on activity to make sure it remains secure.