Bay Networks Bets Growth On Voice-Over-IP Solutions
July 28, 1998
Corporation : Santa Clara, Calif. -- With its recent
acquisition of a German manufacturer and the unveiling
of a three-phase strategy, Bay Networks Inc. has
become the latest vendor to look toward cable networks
to deliver voice-over-IP.
The networking vendor also unveiled a stackable
workgroup switch that, in combination with its routing
switch, targets the midsize-enterprise Ethernet-switching
market.
The first phase of Bay Networks' voice-over-IP strategy
involves the acquisition of NetServe GmbH, a
Berlin-based maker of packet-based voice products that
run on coaxial cable networks. NetServe, which will
become part of Bay Networks' Broadband Technology
division, also makes VoiceHub and VoiceServer.
VoiceHub converts analog phone signals into data
packets and sends them to a server at a cable operator's
site. VoiceServer is a gateway to a public switched
telephone network and makes it possible to provide
management and billing functions.
Phase two of the strategy focuses on integrating
voice-over-IP into cable networks. The vendor, based
here, plans to ship products later this year. Bay
Networks will develop an IP-based VoiceHub internal
card for its LAN-city cable modems and an IP server
gateway for the cable operator to connect to the PSTN,
said company executives.
The plan's third phase focuses on fully integrating these
technologies. In mid-1999, all VoiceHub features
will be melded into a standards-based cable modem, Bay
Networks officials said.
Targeting a more traditional networking market, Bay
Networks' BayStack 450 switch, designed for use with its
Accelar routing switch, offers built-in Web-based
management agents and remote monitoring technology.
"Putting these two products together allows resellers to
add value to their customers' networks because of the
aggressive price point," said Mark Weiner, senior
manager of channel marketing for Bay Networks. "We
are trying to provide enterprise-level performance and
functionality at a workgroup price."
The BayStack 450 is available now for $3,595 or $149 per
port.
Three-prong approach:
- Buys German manufacturer.
- Focuses on voice-over-IP solutions.
- Ships BayStack 450 switch.
Copyright - 1998 CMP Media Inc.
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