Unified Communication

Overview

Unified Communication is the convergence of multiple communication methods over an IP-based network. Its purpose is to optimize business processes and enhance communication by reducing device and media dependencies. UC includes the integration of real-time communication services such as instant messaging (IM), Voice Over IP (Including IP-PBX Systems), video conferencing, e-mail, mobility and texting/MMS.

This group studies technologies for communication systems that integrate voice, data and video services. Currently, they are focusing on software-based PBX systems that support voice-over-IP services. CCENT’s phones will be working under one of these systems as a case study. Additionally, demonstrations of the capabilities and quality of service issues surrounding voice-over-IP technology have been developed for use in iSchool courses.

Work Accomplished

– Installed and maintain an open source Asterisk based IP/PBX
– Provided VoIP services for CCENT via Service Provider hosted SIP trunk channels
– Installed an IP phone infrastructure and extensions for each test-bed in CCENT
– Provided an Access Point for CCENT Vo-WiFi phones
– Researched VoIP security issues in regards to IP packet capture and caller ID spoofing

Current Projects

– Installation and integration of Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft Office Communications Server
– Configuring of an IP-PBX as a gateway for the Exchange Server and OCS to provide extension routing, voicemail, and video conferencing services
– Researching open source Video Conferencing alternatives
– Researching into routing of phone extensions connected via external networks back to in-house hosted IP-PBX
– Configuring Exchange Server and MS OCS to provide test user groups with video conferencing technologies

Faculty Advisor
Bahram Attaie

Student Members
Ashutosh Tusharbhai Bhatt – Graduate Student, TNM Program
Richard Murillo – Graduate Student, TNM Program
Neela Lochani – Graduate Student, TNM Program
Yan Feng – Graduate Student, IM Program
Shivesh Ganotra – Graduate Student, TNM Program
Priya Babukumar – Graduate Student, TNM Program
Nilesh Hirve – Graduate Student, TNM Program