What Is PSTN?
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional circuit-switched telephone network that enables voice communication over landlines and cellular systems. It connects calls using a network of switches, enabling communication between different locations worldwide. Despite the rise of VoIP and internet-based communications, PSTN remains a reliable backbone for global voice calling.
When integrated with Microsoft Teams, PSTN allows users to make and receive calls to and from traditional phone numbers directly within the Teams interface. This eliminates the need for separate desk phones or multiple platforms, streamlining business communication.
Why Choose Microsoft Teams PSTN Connectivity?
Core Problems Microsoft Teams PSTN Solves
- Disjointed Communication Systems – Eliminates the need for separate platforms for collaboration and telephony.
- Limited Global Reach – Extends Microsoft Teams’ communication capabilities to traditional phone lines worldwide.
- Inefficient Call Handling – Centralizes call management, routing, and monitoring in a single interface.
- Scalability Challenges – Supports organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to global enterprises.
Who Should Consider Microsoft Teams PSTN Connectivity?
- Businesses seeking one unified platform for meetings, messaging, and voice calling.
- Remote and hybrid teams needing reliable voice services accessible from anywhere.
- Organizations with global operations requiring consistent international calling capabilities.
- IT leaders aiming to reduce telecom complexity while improving manageability.
Key Features of Microsoft Teams PSTN Connectivity
Microsoft Teams PSTN integration offers a range of features that blend enterprise-grade telephony with modern collaboration:
- Direct Routing or Calling Plans – Choose between Microsoft’s Calling Plans or connect your own carrier through Direct Routing.
- Enterprise-Grade Security – PSTN calls in Teams benefit from Microsoft’s security and compliance framework.
- Number Porting – Retain existing business numbers during migration to Teams.
- Advanced Call Management – Voicemail, call queues, auto attendants, and call forwarding all managed within Teams.
- Flexible Deployment Options – On-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid implementations.
Implementation Insights
Migrating PSTN services into Microsoft Teams requires careful planning:
- Assess Communication Needs – Evaluate calling patterns, required features, and geographic coverage.
- Choose Deployment Model – Decide between Microsoft Calling Plans or Direct Routing with your preferred carrier.
- Prepare Infrastructure – Ensure network bandwidth and QoS policies can handle voice traffic.
- Port Numbers and Configure Routing – Set up call flows, queues, and attendant menus.
- Train End-Users – Provide adoption support to ensure a smooth transition.
Microsoft Teams PSTN vs. Traditional Phone Systems
Common Challenges and Misconceptions About Microsoft Teams PSTN
- Myth: PSTN is Obsolete – PSTN remains critical for reliable global voice communication, even in the cloud era.
- Myth: Integration is Complex – With the right partner, Teams PSTN can be deployed efficiently without service disruption.
- Challenge: Number Porting Delays – Proper planning mitigates delays in moving existing numbers.
- Challenge: Network Readiness – PSTN voice quality depends on optimized network configuration.
How to Choose the Right Microsoft Teams PSTN Partner
When selecting a provider or integrator for Teams PSTN, consider:
- Experience with Direct Routing and Calling Plans
- Ability to Support Multi-Region Deployments
- Strong Security and Compliance Credentials
- Proven Track Record with Microsoft Teams Voice Projects
Microsoft Teams PSTN Pricing Models
PSTN pricing depends on whether you use Microsoft Calling Plans or Direct Routing:
How ITBroker.com Finds the Right Provider for You
At ITBroker.com, we assess your voice needs, infrastructure, and budget to match you with the most suitable PSTN connectivity approach for Microsoft Teams. Our process includes:
- Needs Analysis – Reviewing call volume, locations, and telephony features.
- Vendor Shortlisting – Recommending carriers and integrators aligned to your needs.
- Implementation Support – Managing deployment from start to finish.
- Ongoing Optimization – Ensuring voice quality, cost efficiency, and scalability.
FAQs About Microsoft Teams PSTN Connectivity
Q: Can I keep my existing phone numbers?
Yes. Number porting is supported in both Calling Plans and Direct Routing setups.
Q: Is Teams PSTN suitable for remote work?
Absolutely. Employees can make and receive calls from any Teams-enabled device.
Q: How is call quality maintained?
With proper network readiness assessments and QoS policies, Teams PSTN delivers high-quality, reliable voice calls.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
