21st Century Networks(21CN)

Like it or not Telecoms is on the move. Over the last decade most of the focus for this has been the transition of data based services to a networking model based on the technology of the internet protocol (IP).

A more recent introduction has been the merging of voice and data applications within a single site or across a group of sites to deliver voice over internet protocol (VOIP – for more info access and download our free ‘VOIP for dummies’ guide by clicking here).

At the end of 2006, BT started to upgrade the existing network to Next Generation Network (NGN) this will involve the migration of around 30 million UK lines. It is the largest, most advanced network transformation of its kind taking place anywhere in the world. When completed, the NGN will allow businesses to benefit from a wide range of innovative, converged communications services.

Businesses are becoming more reliant on IP for the majority of their communications. Good management of IP based networks is one of the most critical tasks assigned to an individual with a company.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly expecting more of their IT and communications services. Now that they are used to the internet and communications on the move, they want communications to be more joined-up and more intuitive since providing excellent customer service is key to retaining and growing their customer base.

To meet these expectations, 21CN promises a simple, seamless, integrated communications experience for everyone. It will allow SMEs to project a national or global business presence and will give them real choice about which devices they use and how to customise, personalise and change their services in real time.

21CN is about using the power of the digital networked economy and the convergence of the telecoms, IT, media and entertainment industries to create better ways and wider opportunities for SMEs to access their markets and to access content. All electronic equipment today has the potential to be a network device from a personal organiser to a vending machine.

The availability of advanced communications networks and services provides the heartbeat for any modern society in the 21st Century. Communications is one of the keys to innovation and competitive advantage and a fundamental requirement for the UK as a major player in the global economy.

21st Century Networks(21CN)

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