Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service is growing in popularity for its ability to improve the way all people communicate. To ensure conversations are without hiccups a VoIP softswitch is essential.

The VoIP softswitch makes quality VoIP possible by working in tandem with other devices on the network. One the software platform, the VoIP softswitch uses a computer system to connect phone calls, and the VoIP softswitch also allows optimization of the VoIP network. Unlike the traditional telephone system—which used hardware switchboards—the VoIP softswitch routes calls using software.

The VoIP softswitch also facilitates protocol conversion, access to the PSTN, and connections to other IP networks in a bid to enhance IP infrastructures.

When someone places a VoIP call, the VoIP softswitch through its programmed routing abilities, searches for an available VoIP gateway or domain to place call to the PSTN, and then connects one end point with another.

The VoIP softswitch is also important as it solves the problem of complex transcoding schemes and enables calls to easily pass through networks.
 
The VoIP softswitch controls the sets of media gateways deployed at the network edge, and manages the registered number authentication, allowing only registered users to access the service provider’s network.

The VoIP softswitch also provides accounting functionality using billing systems to help the service provider properly bill and the VoIP softswitch offers reporting functions, so service providers can have detailed reports on network activity.

Anshu Shrivastava is a contributing editor with TMCnet.

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