Well-informed vnunet.com readers will be familiar with the terms IP convergence and voice over IP (VoIP). But, while a lot of readers will recognise that it is possible to run voice systems over an internet protocol-based network, some may still have questions about how this technology can actually help real businesses in the real world.

Visit the Networked Office for more on VoIP technology

Thankfully, those who don't know all the ins and outs about VoIP are in safe hands. Over the next few weeks this site is going to fill in all the blanks and show you exactly why the industry is buzzing about VoIP and IP convergence. Even those who do understand the technology will find in-depth information that will let them know whether it is right for them.

In simple terms, VoIP allows telephone voice signals to be carried over a traditional data IP network. The messages are sent in digital form in packets, rather than using the circuit-switched system traditionally found in the public switched telephone network.

Even though the rapid uptake of VoIP is getting a lot of press at the moment, don't think for a moment that the technology is in any way untested. In fact, BT installed its first IP private branch exchange and IP phones at its Adastral Park laboratories back in 1997.

The technology has certainly matured considerably since those pioneering days, but as part of our discussion this site will take a glance back through the development and rollout of services to show you the origins of IP convergence.

With the detailed information about its history, even those who are cautious about new technologies will be able to see that VoIP stakes a compelling claim to be the future of networking.