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Best Practices for VoIP and Unified Communications Network Security
[October 29, 2007]

Best Practices for VoIP and Unified Communications Network Security


TMCnet Associate Editor
 
In order to take full advantage of unified communications, many enterprises are extending their VoIP networks for use with softphones, dual-mode phones, and other mobile devices. Simultaneously, many of these enterprises are connecting to service providers using SIP trunks in order to create federations with other companies, and integrating various applications (multimedia, collaboration, presence, etc.).


 
The advantage of leveraging an IP PBX for unified communications is that, in doing so, an enterprise can improve the effectiveness of collaboration, cut costs, and ensure business continuity even in extenuating circumstances.
 
The downside of unified communications initiatives, however, is that implementing them may create security vulnerabilities. This can happen when VoIP and UC applications utilize public networks that may be untrustworthy.
 
Enterprises need not shy away from UC just because of potential security holes, however. Best practices exist that allow enterprises to benefit from UC and maintain secure networks. These best practices are the topic of an upcoming Webinar, “VoIP Security Best Practices: Preventing Attacks and Managing Risk,” hosted by Sipera Systems.
 
The Webinar, led by Eric Winsborrow at Sipera and Erik Linask (News - Alert) at Technology Marketing Corporation, is scheduled for Tuesday, November 6, 2007, at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT).
 
Webinar attendees will learn about the unique threats that can target enterprise VoIP/UC networks, best security practices for VoIP, UC and data networks, shortcomings of existing data security products and the requirements for a comprehensive VoIP/UC security solution.
 
For more information about this Webinar, and to register, please click here.
 

Want to learn more about the topic covered in this article? Check out TMCnet’s White Paper Library, a collection of in-depth information on relevant topics affecting the IP communications industry. This information is free to registered users.

 
Mae Kowalke is an associate editor for TMCnet, covering VoIP, CRM, call center and wireless technologies. She also blogs for TMCnet here.
 


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