Softswitch is the next generation voice and multimedia switch based on the IP technologies. It is design to replace the Class 5 and Class 4 switches based on the circuit switching technologies. Softswitch gets its name because typically it is a software based solution implemented on general purpose computers/servers, while the traditional Class 5 and Class 4 switches are rely on dedicated facilities for inter-connection and are designed primarily for voice communications. Sometimes Call Agent or Media Gateway Controller, a key component in the VOIP solution, is also called Softswith, though the definition of Softswith is often extend to the whole solution.

• The advantages of the Softswitch vs. the traditional circuit switch are:
• New services and revenue stream for service providers
• Flexibility in deployment and operation
• Unified messaging
• Easy integration of dissimilar networks and components
• Lower cost of solution deployment and total ownership

Softswitch technology enables connectivity between the Internet, wireless networks, cable networks and traditional wireline telephony network, which results a converged network.

softswitch

Related Terms: Packet Switching, Network Switch, PSTN, Class 5 Switch, Class 4 Switch, Call Agent, Media Gateway Controller

Reference Links:
http://www.sun.com/products-n-solutions/nep/whitepapers/Softswitch.pdf: Softswitch