Microsoft Lync is a communications tool that provides services such as audio/video conferencing, Instant Messaging (IM) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). These services can all be accessible from the Internet, or from an internal network. Microsoft Lync allows companies to enhance collaboration amongst employees.

A number of enhancements have been made in Microsoft Lync 2013. The network topology setup is quite similar to the previous version but with a number of small differences. Changes include the consolidation of the archiving and monitoring features towards the front-end servers (optional feature). The Lync 2010 Director role is now optional and is not recommended anymore. Less servers are needed because front-end servers can now take the role of Director.