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softswitch

   Also found in: Wikipedia 0.02 sec.

softswitch

A programmable network switch that can process the signaling for all types of packet protocols. Also known as a "media gateway controller," "call agent" or "call server," such devices are used by carriers that support converged communications services by integrating SS7 telephone signaling with packet networks. Using network processors at its core, softswitches can support IP, DSL, ATM and frame relay in the same unit.

It Should Be Able To...
According to the International Softswitch Consortium, a softswitch should be able to (1) control connection services for a media gateway and/or native IP endpoints, (2) select processes that can be applied to a call, (3) provide routing for a call within the network based on signaling and customer database information, (4) transfer control of the call to another network element, and (5) interface to and support management functions such as provisioning, fault, billing, etc.

Software Makes It Flexible
The switching technology in a softswitch is in software (hence its name) rather than in the hardware as with traditional switching center technology. This software programmability allows it to support existing and future IP telephony protocols (H.323, SIP, MEGACO, etc.). See IP telephony. See also Soft-Switch.

Softswitch Infrastructure
This diagram shows how the softswitch fits into the integrated SS7 and IP world. The programmability of a softswitch provides the flexibility for supporting future protocols. (Illustration assistance courtesy of GNP Computers and Pulver.com.)



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? Mentioned in ? References in periodicals archive
 
ATX Communications, a provider of integrated communications services, has announced the implementation of the Telica PLUS 9000 Media Gateway IP softswitch platform, which will be used to enhance the Company's product portfolio and voice and data backbone.
ATX Communications enhances data and voice network infrastructure ... by EDP Weekly's IT Monitor
The companies behind the softswitch movement are seeking to separate telephone switching into non-proprietary structural elements: standard software on one side, and interoperable--that is, non vendor-specific--hardware on the other.
Softwitching Seeks Seeks IP, PSTN Fusion by Piven, Joshua / Computer Technology Review
the developer of the world's first standards-based access softswitch, has unveiled its powerful new V-Switch access softswitch for carrier next generation networks.
WESTWAVE COMMUNICATIONS' V-SWITCH ACCESS SOFTSWITCH OPENS SERVICE ... by EDP Weekly's IT Monitor
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