Traditionally, video conferencing was done over a ISDN line.   Depending on the number of participants users either made a point to point connection or a multipoint connection using a bridge.  If there are only two locations, the users can simply dial each other and make the connection that way assuming the equipment is compatible.  If the equipment is incompatible the users will have to use a bridge, which both locations will dial into.  The bridge is charged on a per minute basis much like audio conferencing.  If there are more than two locations a bridge will also be required.  Historically, video conferencing required a dedicated ISDN line due to the large amount of data that a video conference and the need for a constant level of bandwidth, however with the widespread deployment of high speed internet connections that is beginning to change. 

IP Based Video Conferencing

     With video conferencing beginning to migrate to the internet, what once was a product reserved for high profile situations, is now beginning to become a product that can be used on a regular basis.  By using network connections that are paid for on a fixed cost basis, the marginal cost of a video conference becomes zero.  The ability to have a high quality videoconference using the internet along with company's desire to reduce cost and increase productivity has lead to an huge increase in the amount of video conferencing going on.  Due to the real time nature of video conferencing, it is important that the users be using a internet service provider that can offer a high speed connection with low latency.

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