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Introduction
Microsoft Teams is a powerful collaboration platform that allows teams to work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location. One of the key features of Teams is its ability to make and receive phone calls through the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). In this blog post, we will explore the different PSTN calling options available in Microsoft Teams.
Direct Routing
Direct Routing is a popular PSTN calling option in Microsoft Teams that allows organizations to connect their own telephony infrastructure to Teams. With Direct Routing, businesses can use their existing phone lines and phone numbers while taking advantage of Teams’ advanced collaboration features. This option is ideal for organizations that want to maintain control over their telephony infrastructure and have specific requirements that cannot be met by other calling options.
Calling Plans
Another PSTN calling option in Microsoft Teams is Calling Plans. Calling Plans are provided by Microsoft and allow organizations to purchase phone numbers and calling minutes directly from Microsoft. This option is convenient for businesses that want a simple and hassle-free way to enable PSTN calling in Teams without the need for additional infrastructure or third-party providers. Microsoft offers different Calling Plan options to suit the needs of different organizations, including domestic and international calling plans.
Operator Connect
Operator Connect is a new PSTN calling option that allows organizations to connect directly to a telecommunications operator of their choice. With Operator Connect, businesses can leverage their existing relationships with operators and take advantage of their competitive pricing and service offerings. This option provides organizations with more flexibility and control over their PSTN calling capabilities in Teams. Operator Connect is currently in preview, and organizations can work with Microsoft and their chosen operator to enable this feature.
Third-Party Providers
Apart from the options provided by Microsoft, organizations can also choose to work with third-party providers for their PSTN calling needs in Microsoft Teams. These providers offer a wide range of services and features, including SIP trunking, call routing, and more. Working with a third-party provider can give organizations more customization options and the ability to integrate their existing telephony infrastructure with Teams seamlessly.
Choosing the Right Option
When it comes to choosing the right PSTN calling option in Microsoft Teams, organizations need to consider their specific requirements, budget, and existing telephony infrastructure. Direct Routing is a suitable choice for businesses that want to maintain control over their infrastructure, while Calling Plans provide a convenient and hassle-free option. Operator Connect offers more flexibility and control, while working with a third-party provider allows for customization and integration.
Conclusion
Microsoft Teams offers a variety of PSTN calling options to suit the needs of different organizations. Whether it’s using Direct Routing, Calling Plans, Operator Connect, or working with a third-party provider, businesses can enable PSTN calling in Teams while leveraging the collaboration and productivity features of the platform. By choosing the right option, organizations can enhance their communication capabilities and empower their teams to work together effectively, regardless of their location.
