Distributed video provides a solution to the challenge of scalability, and an architecture combining the high quality of room-based telepresence experiences with the ease-of-use of personal video. This paper explores several key components that enable creation of a scalable, distributed video architecture supporting the evolving requirements of the video-enabled enterprise, as well as service providers seeking to offer video services to their enterprise and SMB customers.

Fundamental elements of a distributed video architecture include the call processing server, the conferencing server (MCU) and the gateway to other networks, while a more complete solution also includes directories and the ability to integrate with third-party applications. Today, presence capabilities provide important functionality and are considered a core requirement for communication systems. Therefore, this paper will address both the scalability of the call processing server, conferencing server and gateways and the scalability aspects of directories, presence servers and the means for integration with third-party applications.