> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://prosbcdocs.telcobridges.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://prosbcdocs.telcobridges.com/appendices/appendix-a-glossary/glossary-softswitch.md).

# Glossary: Softswitch

Wikipedia defines a softswitch as, "a central device in a telecommunications network that connects calls from one phone line to another by means of software running on a computer system. This work was formerly carried out by hardware, with physical hardware to route the calls. A softswitch is typically used to control connections at the junction point between circuit and packet networks. A single device containing both the switching logic and the switching fabric can be used for this purpose; however, modern technology has led to a preference for decomposing this device into a [Media Gateway](https://docs.telcobridges.com/wiki/TB_Media_Gateway)."\
A Softswitch can also be called a Media Gateway Controller (MGC).

### TelcoBridges and softswitches

TelcoBridges does not develop softswitches. Instead it works with solution developers and system integrators [partners](http://www.telcobridges.com/afficher.aspx?section=199\&langue=en) that provide [softswitch](http://www.telcobridges.com/afficher02.aspx?page=806\&langue=en\&modeAffichage=0\&forceMode=0) capabilities developed internally or licensed from a third party.

As of October 2014, TelcoBridges media gateways can be controlled via the [SIP](/appendices/appendix-a-glossary/glossary-sip.md) protocol or [H.248](https://docs.telcobridges.com/wiki/H.248), but not H.323 or [MGCP](https://docs.telcobridges.com/wiki/MGCP).

### References

* [Wikipedia article](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Softswitch)


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