What is SIP PRI Gateway and use of SIP Trunk?
A SIP PRI Gateway is a device that acts as a bridge between two different
telecommunication technologies.
SIP (Session Initiation Protocol): Over IP (Internet Protocol) networks, this
signaling protocol is used to start, continue, and end real-time communication
sessions. It serves as the foundation for contemporary VoIP (Voice over Internet
Protocol) services, which enable internet-based video, text, and phone calls.
PRI (Primary Rate Interface): This is a conventional telecommunications standard
that transports voice and data traffic across physical copper lines (T1 in North
America, E1 in Europe and other places). PRI systems have been extensively
utilized by businesses for many years and usually link to the Public Switched
Telephone Network (PSTN). There is a set number of channels available on each
PRI line (e.g., 23 or 30 for voice calls).
Asfera Technologies offers products that bridge the gap between traditional PRI
lines and modern SIP-based communication, which is precisely what a SIP PRI
Gateway does.
If you are looking to acquire a SIP PRI Gateway from Asfera Technologies, it
would be best to contact them directly using the information below to discuss your
specific requirements and get detailed product information and pricing.
Asfera Technologies Pvt Ltd, based in New Delhi, India, appears to provide SIP
PRI Gateway solutions as part of their broader range of telecom and call center
solutions.
Why is a SIP PRI Gateway needed?
Many businesses still have existing, functional Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
systems that rely on PRI lines. However, they want to take advantage of the cost
savings, flexibility, and advanced features offered by SIP-based VoIP services (like
lower long-distance charges, scalability, and integration with other digital
communication tools).
The SIP PRI Gateway solves this by converting signals between these two
different protocols:
From SIP to PRI: When an incoming call comes in via SIP (over the internet), the
gateway converts the digital SIP signal into a PRI-compatible format that the
existing PBX can understand and route to the appropriate extension.
From PRI to SIP: When an outbound call is made from the traditional PBX (over
PRI), the gateway converts the PRI signal into a SIP format, allowing it to be
routed over the internet through a SIP trunking provider.
What is SIP Trunk?
A SIP Trunk is a virtual connection that allows businesses to make and receive
phone calls and other multimedia communications (like video and messaging)
over an internet connection, instead of relying on traditional physical phone lines
(like ISDN or analog lines).
How does it work?
1. SIP (Session Initiation Protocol):This is the "language" or signaling
protocol that sets up, manages, and tears down real-time communication
sessions over IP networks. When you make a call, SIP tells the network how
to connect you to the other party.
2. Trunking: In traditional telephony, a "trunk" referred to a bundle of
physical phone lines shared between multiple users or exchanges. With SIP,
"trunking" refers to the ability to carry multiple simultaneous calls
(channels) over a single internet connection.
3. IP-PBX: Most businesses using SIP trunking will have an IP-PBX (Internet
Protocol Private Branch Exchange) system. This is a phone system that's
designed to work with IP networks. The SIP trunk connects your IP-PBX to
an Internet Telephony Service Provider (ITSP).
4. Internet Connection: A stable and sufficiently high-bandwidth internet
connection is crucial for good call quality, as all your voice and data traffic
travels over it.
5. SIP Provider (ITSP): This is the company that provides the SIP trunking
service. They essentially give you access to their network, allowing your IP-
PBX to connect to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) for calls
to traditional phone numbers, or directly to other SIP users.
