Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a method for determining the status of allocated phone numbers in a VoIP network by providing a tool to automatically determine whether allocated phone numbers are in service, deactivated, or waiting to be allocated phone numbers are disclosed. The present method enables access into service provisioning systems and their associated database regarding move, add, change, and disconnect operations to make this determination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling the upgrade of a VoIP endpoint device by downloading a firmware component to support CALEA related monitoring and recording of conversations for all calls originated or terminated by the endpoint device are disclosed. The upgraded CALEA firmware component can be activated by the network on demand or when the signaling information to set up a watched call is received. Once the recording is completed it can be translated into a standard audio format file that can be uploaded transparently to the network and sent in near real time to the appropriate CALEA server.

Abstract: The present invention enables the calling party to register multiple addresses of frequently called parties with a packet-switched network service provider, e.g., a VoIP network service provider, and have the network dials through the numbers on behalf of the calling party until the called party is reached or the list of available phone numbers has been exhausted. Optionally, the network can intersperse each call by asking the calling party if he or she wants to dial a particular phone number of the called party from the list of available phone numbers, and the network can dial the selected phone number.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling packet network service providers, e.g., a VoIP network service providers, to collect information on the feature usage of their subscribers and spontaneously offer them the opportunity to subscribe to enhanced service features based on their existing feature usage patterns is disclosed. For example, users who accumulate a lot of voice mail can be offered a locate me feature, those who frequently use Do-Not-Disturb features can be offered an instant messaging application, and those who engage in three way conference calls can be offered a personal conferencing service that provides up to 10 conference legs.