Lync Server Overview

Lync Server is an integrated suite of communication tools that enable point-to-point or point-to-multipoint communications across various mediums. Even the most basic Lync Server implementations include several core features that are useful for almost any organization. For example, all Lync Server deployments enable instant messaging between two or more users for simple text-based communications, as well as point-to-point voice and video chat between clients. Also included in this core set of features is full-featured web conferencing, combining audio, video, desktop sharing, remote control, and more.

An additional core functionality that exists with all Lync implementations is the concept of Presence, in which one can view the status of other users in real time. Although Presence is a feature that has been widely adopted for use with the majority of communications software on the market, Lync Server presents an advantage in that the Presence information published by Lync is extended into other popular Microsoft applications, such as Microsoft Office, Exchange, and SharePoint. As an example, it is possible to view a document created by a co-worker that is stored in SharePoint, then quickly determine the status of the document owner, and contact that document owner with a single click, leading to an IM conversation or a voice call.

Moving beyond the basic features of Lync Server, this functionality can be extended in various ways depending on the needs of an organization. For example, through the use of media gateways or a qualified PBX, Lync users can participate in voice conversations with users of other voice systems, including the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). Lync Server also enables extended methods of conferencing, such as calling into a conference from a PBX or the PSTN (dial-in conferencing) and integration with dedicated video conferencing systems. For larger conferences, Lync Server has the ability to provide most, if not all of an enterprise’s conferencing needs.