Lync 2010 and the SBA White Paper

Microsoft originally released what is now known as Lync in December of 2003 under the name Live Communications Server (LCS). It was primarily an enterprise presence/IM engine with limited voice services. LCS was upgraded with subsequent releases and service packs. In July of 2007, a new version came with a new name of Office Communications Server (OCS) providing general improvements and its capabilities expanded into web conferencing with basic voice and video services. In December 2008, OCS R2 introduced improved stability, dial-in conferencing, and additional voice features. OCS R2 gained traction and a fan base, but still had significant restrictions that limited its appeal as an enterprise voice solution. Lync Server, released in November of 2010, represented a major upgrade, the product portfolio is now positioned as a comprehensive unified communications solution.

What sets Lync apart is how it integrates its tools together and with other Microsoft solutions. The user experience centers around the Lync 2010 client which offers four intuitive tabs: Contacts, Conversations, Activity Feeds, and Phone. Each tab provides presence and communications information with different perspectives. The Lync 2010 solution offers numerous significant upgrades to OCS R2. Potentially the biggest being the design and architectural improvement for branch office connectivity via the new Survivable Branch Appliance (SBA). That is the primary focus of this document.

For more information, download the complete white paper below.