An integrated security and communications system combines a security system to
either or both of a telephone system interface and a data interface. Users have
access to voice-mail or other PBX-type telephone functions, many or all of which
can be accessed not only at telephone sets, but also at keypads of the security
system. Data functions such as electronic mail and possible partial or full World
Wide Web access may also be provided at the keypads, as well as at connected personal
computers or computer terminals. The system keypads may be enhanced to better accommodate
some of the added functions. A central communications station could be used to
maintain secure, shared private key encrypted communications with each premises
system, using a redirector arrangement or relay to allow each premises system to
communicate securely with a central monitoring station and with other systems.
The secure communications system could be used without a security system to allow
secure computer-to-computer communications.
