Microsoft Teams Direct Routing

Microsoft Teams Direct Routing is defined as a method of connecting Microsoft Teams to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) using a third-party telecom provider. This allows businesses to use SIP trunking and Session Border Controllers (SBCs) instead of Microsoft Calling Plans.

No. Microsoft provides the Teams platform and phone system functionality, but it does not act as a telecom carrier. Businesses must work with a provider like Teltek to deliver voice services, manage phone numbers, and handle call routing.

An SBC (Session Border Controller) is a critical network component that securely connects Microsoft Teams to external voice networks. It manages signaling, security, and interoperability between Teams and telecom carriers.

Yes. Direct Routing allows businesses to port and retain their existing phone numbers, ensuring continuity while transitioning to Microsoft Teams voice.

SIP trunking is a technology that enables voice communication over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. In Direct Routing, SIP trunks connect your telecom provider to Microsoft Teams through an SBC.

Yes. Direct Routing can reduce costs by allowing flexible carrier selection, shared trunking models, and eliminating rigid per-user calling plans. This often results in more efficient and cost-effective voice services.

1-to-many trunking is a model where multiple users share a pool of voice capacity rather than each user requiring a dedicated line. This improves efficiency and reduces overall telecom costs.

If your internet connection fails, calls can be automatically forwarded to mobile devices or alternate locations, ensuring continued communication.

Direct Routing solutions can include failover routing that redirects calls to alternate endpoints or systems, maintaining business continuity during outages.

Yes. Properly configured Direct Routing solutions support E911, allowing accurate location information to be transmitted to emergency services.

Yes. Direct Routing uses encrypted voice traffic and SBC security controls to protect communications and ensure compliance with security standards.

Yes. Direct Routing can be complex because it requires telecom expertise in areas such as routing design, carrier management, SBC configuration, and ongoing monitoring.

Direct Routing is best suited for businesses with complex telecom environments, specific carrier requirements, or advanced routing needs, while UCaaS integration is often simpler and more feature-rich.

Yes. Teltek provides full lifecycle management including number porting, carrier coordination, routing design, Teams licensing administration, and ongoing support.