Issue TOC Print full article Print this page Download as PDF E-Mail this URL Discuss this article Flame the author     In this article Introduction GoBeam vPBX ICG Communications VoicePipe MCI Advantage Executive Summary & Web Links Don't Want Centrex? The Business Case Report Card

Maybe IP Centrex isn't your cup of tea, but you still want simple-to-use packetized voice. There are several options available, from companies such as CBeyond and Vonage, that place an IAD (integrated access device) at the customer premises. Analog handsets are then connected to the IAD, which packetizes the call and places it on a data network. These services are designed for companies that have five to 100 employees and want to continue using analog phones while enjoying the convenience of IP. CBeyond offers several business plans for data, voice, e-mail and conference calling.

Vonage, which primarily serves the residential market, says it is adding more business customers each month.