Abstract: Telephone calls are handled via the Internet between an interworking unit relating to the calling subscriber and an interworking unit relating to the called subscriber. At least the telecommunications network to which the calling subscriber belongs as well as the interworking units are operated by the same provider. Access by a calling subscriber to the interworking unit and the passing on of the dialed telephone number of the called subscriber to the interworking unit are made dependent on the identification of the call as an Internet telephone call and dependent on the result of an access authorization check. Charging for use of the telephone network and of the Internet for such a call does not commence until the connection is made, as in the case of a call which uses only the telephone network.

Abstract: The invention enables a telephone subscriber to be advised via his telephone line of the arrival of a new e-mail. This is achieved by the e-mail server informing the point of presence (POP) of a subscriber to the Internet of the presence of mail, the POP passing this information to the local exchange of the subscriber, which in turn informs the subscriber of the presence of mail.

Abstract: When an analog telephone subscriber is in an Internet session via a modem connection, he cannot be reached by telephone. The invention enables a message about a telephone service incoming during the Internet session.