A softswitch is the modern convergence of software and switchboards. In the past, calls were manually “switched” by an operator using a switchboard, but this is now done automatically but softswitches.
So what is the difference between a Class 4 softswitch and a Class 5 softswitch?
Class 5 softswitches are used within small geographic areas or businesses and organizations. They can route calls within cities, organizations, states, or even small countries. Class 5 softswitches connect phones and devices, operating on the end-user level.
Class 4 softswitches operate on a larger scale for long-distance calls over large areas or between countries. They route calls between Class 5 switches. Class 4 softswitches connect suppliers, operating on a provider level.
The following diagram illustrates the place of class 5 and class 4 softswitches.
Bicom Systems PBXware is available as both a Class 5 and Class 4 softswitch.
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