Cisco Systems Inc. and VocalTec Communications Ltd. today announced they are teaming up to deliver IP (Internet Protocol) products to ISPs (Internet service providers) and ITSPs (Internet telephony service providers). The agreement covers future joint plans for product development, marketing and sales.
The two companies have a history of working together, specifically though the VoIP Forum, which established and is now promoting the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) H.323 standard for voice over IP protocols. As a result, the companies developed interoperability between Cisco's voice and data gateways and VocalTec's voice over IP software, including Gatekeeper.
Voice over IP products that work on the H.323 protocol are expected for general release by the end of this year, Cisco and VocalTec said in a press release.
The Cisco VocalTec agreement also establishes VocalTec as a licensed dealer of Cisco hardware for voice over IP and data communications and lays the groundwork for cross-promotion and integration of the voice-over-IP hardware and software products between the two companies.
Cisco, primarily known for its voice and data communications gateway equipment, has recently sought to strengthen its software holdings with the acquisition of WebLine Communications Corp. in a stock deal worth US$325 million. [See "Cisco Buys into Online Customer Management," Sept. 22.] WebLine develops business management and billing software for ISPs.
Cisco, in San Jose, California, can be reached at +1-408-526-4000, or on the World Wide Web at http://www.cisco.com/. VocalTec Communications Ltd, based in Israel with offices in New York City, can be contacted at +1-201-228-7000, or