A VoIP softswitch does what an actual switchboard once did for many years in phone networks. Specifically, a VoIP softswitch connects calls between phone lines, controlling connections between circuit and packet networks at the junction point. A VoIP softswitch relies on software rather than hardware to perform circuit switching.

With voice over Internet Protocol gaining in usage all the time, a VoIP softswitch that routes data and voice is quickly becoming a necessary component. A VoIP softswitch has programmable routing intelligence that searches for available VoIP domains or gateways to place calls to the PSTN.

A VoIP softswitch could interface ATM and IP networks, in addition to Ethernet interfaces, in order to connect VoIP calls. A VoIP softswitch also typically has call-control intelligence which permits it to maintain, establish, tour, and terminate calls. It also acts as an interface for application platforms and enhanced service.

A VoIP softswitch can be part of a robust IP call center solution. For example, Dialexia’s Dial-Gate VoIP softswitch acts as the core of a carrier-class VoIP softswitch billing solution that is based on open standards like SIP.

Also of benefit in a VoIP softswitch is the fact that call center intelligence functions instruct the media gateway to connect media streams to the call. This process is transparent to the end user.

The VoIP softswitch can be enhanced and configured to host an unlimited number of call shops, and can manage a flexible billing service handling a perpetually changing set of subscribers.

Given the swiftly changing nature of businesses today, a VoIP softswitch plays a crucial part in performing service functions and call traffic routing.

Brian Solomon is a Web Editor for TMCnet, covering news in the IP communications, call center and customer relationship management industries. To see more of his articles, please visit Brian Solomon’s  columnist page.

Archive