Inter-Tel Announces General Availability of Axxess(R) Software Version 9.0

Inter-Tel Announces General Availability of Axxess(R) Software Version 9.0

TEMPE, Ariz., Dec. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Inter-Tel Incorporated, (NASDAQ:INTL), a leading provider of voice and converged communications systems, today announced the release of Version 9.0 software for the Inter-Tel Axxess(R) Converged Communications Platform. The converged platform enables customers to deploy Internet Protocol (IP), wireless, digital or analog communications depending on their dynamic business requirements.

Axxess Version 9.0 software enhancements include the ability to offer Private Networking and IP endpoints on the same Inter-Tel Internet Protocol Resource Card (IPRC). Axxess v9.0 also offers Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) Tagging support for Inter-Tel Model 8600, Model 8622, Model 8662 and Model 8690 IP endpoints. VLAN Tagging is designed to enable administrators to segment a single physical network into multiple virtual networks for simpler management, increased performance, improved voice quality and enhanced network security. Additionally, this release includes support for Phantom Stations, which enables traveling associates to create virtual stations that do not require a physical endpoint, since these users are typically not in the office.

"Axxess Version 9.0 furthers Inter-Tel's commitment to providing cost-effective converged communications solutions designed to improve business processes," said Jeffrey T. Ford, Inter-Tel's chief technology officer. "With Axxess v9.0, the ability to share IP Resource Cards for both Private Networking and IP endpoints allows for more efficient use of the IP resources and lowers the cost of the communication solution in many configurations. Phantom stations enable traveling employees to forward their calls to their current location, such as a cell phone, pager or home phone -- eliminating the need to purchase additional licenses."

Axxess Version 9.0 software also adds Barge In capabilities and enhances the Silent Monitor feature to allow our customers to monitor and participate in agent calls for quality assurance and training efforts. Numerous diagnostic enhancements and new administration and development tools are also included in this release, designed to streamline system management and increase the productivity of network administrators.

The new features and functionality of Axxess v9.0 software are designed to enable a business to run its system more cost-effectively, ease the management of administration, and improve quality assurance and training initiatives.

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements are based on current assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, dependence on new product or software development; availability of inventory from suppliers; the presence of software "bugs"; and market acceptance of the product and related software; and intended uses identified above. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause the actual results; performance; or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results; performance; or achievements, please see the Company's previously filed SEC reports, including the company's Form 10-K, dated March 15, 2004 and most recent Form 10-Q dated November 5, 2004. Inter-Tel disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All products and services mentioned are the trademarks, service marks, registered marks or registered service marks of their respective owners.

About Inter-Tel, Incorporated

Inter-Tel (NASDAQ:INTL)(NASDAQ:-)(NASDAQ:news) offers value-driven communications products; applications utilizing networks and server-based communications software; and a wide range of managed services that include voice and data network design and traffic provisioning, custom application development, and financial solutions packages. An industry-leading provider focused on the communication needs of business enterprises, Inter-Tel employs over 1,900 communications professionals, and services business customers through a network of 59 company-owned, direct sales offices and over 350 authorized providers in the United States and United Kingdom. More information is available at www.inter-tel.com.


Source: Inter-Tel Incorporated

CONTACT: Steven G. Mihaylo, Chairman and Founder, +1-775-954-1211, or
Craig W. Rauchle, Executive Vice President and COO, +1-775-954-1200, or Norman
Stout, Executive Vice President and CAO, +1-480-449-8900, or Jeffrey T. Ford,
Vice President and CTO, +1-480-961-9000, or Jeanne Leckie, Vice President of
Marketing, +1-602-231-5161

Web site: http://www.inter-tel.com/


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