Thursday, October 9, 2008

Question of the Week - Secure Conference Calls

"Are you aware of whether or not there is such a thing as a company that offers a 'secure' conference calling service? A company that provides an 800 number that people can call in to and participate in a 'secure' multi-party conference call?"

No one-stop solutions. How about a two-stop solution?

Set up encrypted conference calls via VoIP using ZFone. Combine this with an on-line conference call service which uses Asterisk software.

• Participant requirements
-- Access to the Internet.
-- ZFone software on their computer (lap or desktop). It's FREE.
-- Optional, for added privacy:
---
A plug-in headset $3.99
--- Or,
plug-in ear-buds $23.99

• Teleconferencing requirements
-- Schedule calls with an Asterisk-based provider, like Rondee. It's FREE. (others)
-- Major carriers offer secure 'web-meeting' services for a fee. (example)
Note: Conference providers have access unencrypted calls; CALEA.

Other options
VoIP telephony - Just route all calls through a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Good for inter-company conference calls.

"Very occasionally, there is a half second of delay when you have a few VPN-based users on a conference call together, but that has a nice social side effect of stopping people from trying to interrupt each other." Posted by Bradley M. Kuhn on June 20, 2008.

Polycom Encrypted Video Conference Calling (Point to Point)

As I learn of new solutions I will let you know.
Until then, I hope this helps.

Kevin