We hear the term softswitch a lot when we’re talking about IP communications, but for those of us who are not as technologically inclined as our IT staff, it’s good to understand what a softswitch is, and also understand that there are different types of softswitches. Not all are created equal.
First, a little softswitch 101: a softswitch is a VoIP software database containing users' information and phone numbers. When a VoIP call is placed, the softswitch uses the information to route the call or accept a call through an IP network and PSTN. Having a VoIP softswitch is a significant component of any VoIP business and must be carefully chosen. It works in tandem with other network devices and makes VoIP calling possible.
In telecommunications, there is less hardware required, it makes telephony more affordable, and it can route all types of calls.
Softswitch software has become an important tool of verbal exchanges in businesses of all sizes.
The immediate benefits of using a softswitch solution are cost-effective connectivity and truly integrated computer-telephony applications over your network. With IP telephony solutions, all the functionality of the system is maintained, and enhanced.
Where VoIP is concerned, a softswitch is classified as either Class 4 or Class 5.
A class 4 VoIP softswitch is the kind of VoIP software which is used to transit VoIP traffic between the carriers. The main task of Class 4 softswitch is to maintain the uninterrupted routing of the large volumes of long distance VoIP calls. A class 5 VoIP softswitch is the kind of VoIP software which is intended for companies providing services for end-users. It is designed to work with residential and business clients. Class 5 softswitch is characterized by such services as calling features, and IP PBX (News - Alert) features.
Having covered a little bit of softswitch 101, what are the benefits of using softswitches? For one, it’s all about scalability. Since the IP softswitch mainly controls the connection made between different phone lines and less of switching part, it is manages more number of clients without overloading the processors.
Softswitches provide several advantages over traditional switching alternatives. They reduce the cost of providing service by using less expensive IP networks. They allow carriers to differentiate their offerings through value-added services, often by simply adding a new server that delivers the desired functionality. Softswitches also allow telecommunications companies to leverage their existing investment in switching, preserve interoperability with PSTN networks, and assure a smooth transition to packet-based IP technology.
Edited by Alisen Downey