"We also believe that integrating telephone functionality with PCs will enable us to provide videoconferencing services [with] the interoperability of voicemail, e-mails and faxes," Bhar said.

The Board of Studies previously chose NetStar to provide managed WAN and security services back in 2000.

NetStar Australia's managing director, Chris Meager, said the company is delighted to be partnering with the NSW Board of Studies again to refresh its WAN and prepare its network for VOIP.

Bhar said the Board of Studies looked at other suppliers but chose NetStar because of its experience and price.

Financial details remain "commercial-in-confidence," according to the Board of Studies chief media officer, Rebecca Lloyd.