# Software Transcoding

### Overview

Software Transcoding enables call transcoding to be performed directly by the system software, providing an alternative to hardware-based transcoding. This feature offers flexibility in handling different audio codecs during call setup and transmission.

### Key Features

* **Software-Based Processing**: Performs audio transcoding through system software rather than dedicated hardware
* **Codec Support**: Currently supports a-law and u-law audio codec transcoding
* **Automatic Selection**: The system automatically priorities software transcoding when supported and enabled

### Requirements

#### License Requirements

To use Software Transcoding, your license must include the **SOFTWARE\_TRANSCODE\_CALLS** feature.

### How It Works

When a call requires transcoding between different audio codecs, the system:

1. Detects the need for transcoding based on incompatible codecs between endpoints
2. Checks if software transcoding is enabled and supported for the required codecs
3. Automatically routes the call through the software transcoding path when available
4. Processes the audio stream in real-time to ensure seamless communication

The system intelligently determines the optimal transcoding method based on your configuration and the specific codecs involved in each call.

### Benefits

* **Flexibility**: Provides an alternative transcoding method without relying solely on hardware resources
* **Automatic Optimisation**: System automatically selects the best transcoding approach for each call
* **Resource Management**: Helps balance processing load across available system resources

### Configuration

Please note that Software Transcoding is supported in Toolpack release 3.3 onwards.

Software Transcoding must be enabled through the Web Portal interface. When both software and hardware transcoding options are available and configured, the system will automatically prioritise software transcoding when appropriate.

To configure, go to "Profile" settings, choose "Software audio transcoding" and push it to the "Current" box. Please note that you can apply different "Profiles" per NAP.

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