VoIP News: May 2008

The rapid growth experienced by the VoIP industry could slow as a result of fears over security, according to an industry expert. Research from Newport Networks suggests that the technology is attracting more attention from hackers, with private VoIP calls being accessed to steal usernames and passwords. This information can then be used to connect to the telephone service for free by transferring the costs on to the bill payer.

A growing number of firms are installing VoIP hardware as they strive to improve the efficiency and functionality of their telecommunications systems, according to an industry expert. Eric Thomas, founder and CEO of FreedomVOICE, claims that Hosted PBX services offer better reliability and audio quality than indirect VoIP alternatives. He said: "Many businesses are attracted to the savings and the capabilities offered by Hosted VoIP PBX services, such as connecting multiple remote offices on one PBX.

VoIP providers should focus on delivering better quality of service (QoS) levels in order to build on recent increases in subscriber traffic, according to a new study. Research by Keynote suggests that the VoIP industry recorded a 75 per cent rise in the number of subscribers last year. Ben Rushlo, senior manager with Keynote's competitive research group, argued that improved reliability and audio clarity will be needed to challenge traditional telephony methods.

Supermarket giant Tesco has launched a pilot scheme that will give customers the chance to make free voice over internet protocol (VoIP) calls. The firm has expanded its Tesco Internet Phone service, which is managed by Australian telecoms provider Freshtel. The VoIP solution now covers new handsets with Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be used to contact other Tesco customers for free.

Technology companies should focus on innovative strategies that will help them to deliver effectively managed IT services, according to a new study. Research conducted by Unisys Corporation shows that one quarter of firms in this sector focus on new practices that enable IT resources to be appropriately allocated. Bart De Maertelaere, vice-president of IT outsourcing strategy at Unisys Global Outsourcing and Infrastructure Services, argued that businesses need to to take advantage of outsourcing and other successful methods to ensure they are not left behind by their competitors.