New AT&T service could boost US business VoIP traffic

US business VoIP traffic could be set to rise following the launch of a new service by communications firm AT&T.

New and existing AT&T clients will soon be able to run IP telephony solutions over their virtual private networks (VPN) – which allow firms to transfer data to remote locations.

The service will allow companies to merge their data and voice networks, which can reduce maintenance and infrastructure costs and simplify operations onto one common network.

Shawn Conroy, vice president of business solutions at AT&T, claimed customers would experience numerous benefits by converging their networks.

He said: "Customers expect their VoIP service to perform as well as their traditional telephone service.

"Adding voice to the network cloud gives customers the ability to determine their optimal level of security, architecture, cost and performance objectives - key differentiators for AT&T."

The US firm will release two versions of the service – the IP Flexible Reach SIP trunking package and Voice DNA.