A switching system and method are provided to facilitate use of
videoconference facilities over a plurality of security levels. The
system includes a switch coupled to a plurality of codecs and
communication networks. Audio/Visual peripheral components are connected
to the switch. The switch couples control and data signals between the
Audio/Visual peripheral components and one but nor both of the plurality
of codecs. The switch additionally couples communication networks of the
appropriate security level to each of the codecs. In this manner, a
videoconferencing facility is provided for use on both secure and
non-secure networks.