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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between SBC and Soft Switch in NGN?

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The main differences between SBCs (Session Border Controllers) and Soft Switches in NGN (Next Generation Network) are related to their functions, deployment, and security. Here are the key differences:

  1. Functionality: SBCs are primarily used for security and protecting the network from malicious intrusions, while Soft Switches are responsible for routing and call control. SBCs handle signaling, media, and DTMF tones, and support SIP and H323 signaling protocols. Soft Switches, on the other hand, manage VoIP calls and traditional PSTN/ISDN calls, providing features like call forwarding, conference calls, voicemail, and PBX features.
  2. Deployment: SBCs are generally cheaper and easier to deploy than Soft Switches, which are more expensive.
  3. Security: SBCs act as firewalls for voice networks, providing security features like topology hiding and network attack prevention. Soft Switches do not have the same level of security as SBCs.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: SBCs can comply with regulatory requirements for telephone calls, such as accommodating emergency calls and lawful interception by law enforcement agencies. Soft Switches do not have these capabilities.
  5. Business Models: SBCs are primarily used in the wholesale communication business, while Soft Switches are ideal for day-to-day VoIP calling services provided by communication providers.

In summary, SBCs are more focused on security and protecting the network, while Soft Switches handle call routing and control functions. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the business or organization.

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  • What is the Difference Between SBC and Soft Switch in NGN?
  • Comparative Table: SBC vs Soft Switch in NGN

    • Comparative Table: SBC vs Soft Switch in NGN

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a Session Border Controller (SBC) and a Soft Switch in a Next Generation Network (NGN):

    Feature SBC (Session Border Controller) Soft Switch
    Definition A Voice over IP device that acts as a back-to-back user agent, handling signaling and media A software-based device that supports VoIP technology and controls call and media processing
    Function Border security gateway, provides security features like NAT facility, topology hiding, and network attacks prevention Controls call and media processing on TDM, packet-switched IP, and their combination
    Security Offers added security, such as denial of service attack protection and toll rate manipulation prevention Does not offer the same level of security as SBC
    Regulatory Requirements Complies with regulatory requirements Does not comply with regulatory requirements
    Deployment Cost Cheaper and easier to deploy More expensive to deploy
    GUI Interface SBC and Soft Switch vendors both have GUI interfaces for configuration and management
    Transcoding and DTMF Translation Handled by SBC Not handled by Soft Switch
    Connection SBCs are generally border elements Soft Switches are mostly connected with internal networks
    SIP Header Manipulation and Number Manipulation Extensively handled in SBC Less extensive handling in Soft Switch

    SBCs primarily focus on security and protection of the network, while Soft Switches are more focused on call control and media processing. Both devices are used in VoIP and NGN environments, but their core functions and features are distinct.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.