Converged Communications Services - VoIP

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the next generation of communications service and the next logical step for updating Northwestern's aging telephone infrastructure, preparing the community for the future.

Though it will take years to complete the vision of the converged communications plan, the first phases are near completion and VoIP services are scheduled to be available on the Chicago and Evanston campuses in fiscal year 2008.

NUIT successfully upgraded the Chicago and Evanston campus networks to IP-enabled service. Next, NUIT is working to merge the networks to a single system. Once this happens, Northwestern faculty and staff will be able to order VoIP service. Alternatively, in many buildings, users may choose to keep their existing phone service.

Common questions about VoIP at Northwestern include:

• How can I obtain VoIP service?
• Can I obtain a VoIP soft client?
• Isn't this just another phone?
• How is the sound quality on a VoIP phone?
• What is wrong with the old phone network?

How can I obtain VoIP service?

Starting in the fall of 2007, users in buildings that have been upgraded for VoIP service can begin to order the technology for general use. These services enable basic voice service, and not the full-featured technology anticipated for the future.

Can I obtain a VoIP soft client?

Soft clients are not available for widespread distribution at this time, but are anticipated to become available for the Northwestern community in the future.

Isn't this just another phone?

Yes, a phone and more — VoIP service enables easier call forwarding, caller ID, instant messaging, and three-way calling. Evenutally, Northwestern users will be able to make calls from a computer with software called a soft client.

VoIP is just one step in enabling session initiated protocol (SIP), making it possible for all Northwestern users to obtain voice and data services from a single access point.

How is sound quality on a VoIP phone?

On properly configured networks, VoIP service will provide high-quality sound, as good as a regular phone.

What was wrong with the old phone network?

Though the network functioned, it is increasingly difficult to maintain because the vendor discontinued support. By implementing a converged communication infrastructure, Northwestern benefits from greater efficiencies and improved technology. In both the near- and long-term, this prepares the University for technology needs of the future.

VoIP Building Conversion Schedule

The existing communications closets on campus require upgrades to enable VoIP technology; an up-to-date schedule for 2006-2008 is below. A 2009-11 building upgrade schedule is also available.

In some cases, buildings are upgraded ahead of schedule due to time-saving and cost-effective circumstances, further benefiting the University.