Types of Video Conferencing

Today video conferencing takes on many forms, from conference room-based systems to executive systems, video (media) phones and web-based or computer video conferencing software.

The terminology for video conferencing equipment varies by vendor. When it comes to the types of video conferencing there are two main types. These types of video conferencing systems are based upon the size and scale of the video conferences you wish to have.

* Multi-party video conferencing - three or more separate locations

* Party-to-party video conferencing - two different locations

Two Locations: Party-to-Party Video Conferencing

Video conferencing solutions or video calls between just two locations is called point-to-point video conferencing. Party-to-party video conferencign solutions are typically used for desktop or small group video conferencing.

Although a room-based multi-party video conferencing system can be used for party-to-party video conferencing, often web-based video conferencing software or desktop, video phones or “media phones” are used in conjunction with free or paid service to conduct a conference.


Executive video conferencing systems generally refer to all video conferencing equipment based systems used by individuals on their desks. These bring the ultimate in convenience. Now you only have to leave your desk to refill your coffee cup.

Video phones or “media phones” also fall into this category, although they are not as widely deployed.

If you are looking to chat with friends, operate a small business or only have an occassional need for video conferencing, party-to-party solutions will work the best for you.

Three or More Locations: Multi-Party Video Conferencing For business with staff and locations spread out amongst a wide geography, video conferencing enables multiple locations to meet simultaneously. This type of situation is best handled by room-based (telepresence) video conference system, that includes video phones, video conferencing software, conference bridges, conference phones and of course a nice big TV screen! Room-based systems are housed in a conference room, sometimes dedicated only to video conferencing. Generally these are used for multi-point video conferencing.