Clarent Corporation provides software-based communications solutions through Internet Protocol (IP) communications networks. Its software-based solutions, in conjunction with its hardware or equipment provided by others, are designed to enable service providers to deliver simultaneous transmission of voice, fax, and data over IP networks. Clarent's solutions provide bridges between the traditional circuit-switched telephone system and Internet Protocol networks, allowing the use of IP telephony to be transparent to end user customers using their existing wire line or wireless telephones. The company’s customers include service providers, system integrators, resellers, and enterprises. Service provider customers include traditional local, international, and wholesale long distance telecommunication companies, as well as next generation service providers, including Internet Service Providers, Application Service Providers, Web-to-phone providers, and others employing Internet-based business models. The company’s competitors include Cisco Systems, Inc.; Lucent, Inc.; Nortel Networks Corporation; Sonus Networks; and VocalTec Communications, Ltd.