ABSTRACT
Voice communication is in the midst of an evolution toward network convergence. Over the past several decades, the coalescence of voice and data through the circuit-based, voice-centric public switched telephone network (PSTN) has been limited. Interconnected networks exist today, each maintaining its own set of devices, services, service levels, skill sets, and security standards. These networks anticipate the inevitable and ongoing convergence onto packet-or cell-based, data-centric networks primarily built for the Internet. Recent deregulation changes and cost savings, as well as the potential for new media applications and services, are now driving a progressive move toward voice over some combination of ATM, IP, and MPLS. This new-generation network aims to include novel types of telephony services that utilize packet-switching technology to receive transmission efficiencies while also allowing voice to be packaged in more standard data applications. New security models that include encryption and security services are necessary in telecommunication devices and networks.
