Abstract: A communications system includes a plurality of communities each associated with a service provider. Text-based messaging sessions, such as chat sessions, may be established between users in the communities. A request is received from a user in a first community, the request indicating a desired text-based messaging session with a user in a second community. The user in the second community is notified of a request, and it is determined if the user has accepted the request to establish a text-based messaging session. If so, the text-based messaging session is established between users in the first and second communities. If the user is not available, predetermined information stored in a server may be accessed to determine a plurality of devices that may be employed for communicating with the user. A message is sent to at least a selected one of the plurality of devices.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing voice communications between two parties using computer controlled telephony hardware which is separate from the PSTN is described. The voice communications may be voice over Internet or PSTN voice connections, or any combination of the two. The apparatus includes a WEB server, a computer telephony server, a Voice over IP gateway and an operations, administration and maintenance server. The apparatus is suitably installed and operated by a service provider such as an Internet Service Provider. The advantage is unexcelled control over call setup, transfer and conference functions. A further advantage is the rapid, unfettered development of new services without compatibility issues with the PSTN.