In today’s digital-first business environment, efficient communication is key to productivity. Microsoft Direct Routing has emerged as a game-changing solution for businesses that want to integrate traditional telephony with Microsoft Teams. Whether you're a small business or a global enterprise, Direct Routing offers flexibility, cost savings, and the power to streamline your communication setup.

What Is Microsoft Direct Routing?

Microsoft Direct Routing allows organizations to connect their own SIP trunk or telephony provider directly to Microsoft Teams using a certified Session Border Controller (SBC). This means companies can make and receive public switched telephone network (PSTN) calls through Teams without relying solely on Microsoft Calling Plans.

By enabling Direct Routing, businesses retain more control over their voice infrastructure, choosing providers based on cost, quality, or existing contracts, while fully integrating with the Microsoft Teams interface.

Key Benefits of Microsoft Direct Routing

1. Cost Efficiency
   Organizations can reduce expenses by selecting more affordable third-party carriers instead of Microsoft's Calling Plans. This is especially advantageous for companies operating in regions where Microsoft Calling Plans are not available or are more expensive.

2. Global Reach & Flexibility
   Microsoft Direct Routing supports multi-national deployments, making it a strong fit for global businesses. It allows for local carrier connections in various countries, improving call quality and ensuring compliance with regional regulations.

3. Enterprise-Grade Control
   With Direct Routing, companies can manage their SBCs and choose how calls are routed. This flexibility supports complex call flows, advanced call recording, and integration with other business systems.

How to Implement Microsoft Direct Routing

To get started with Microsoft Direct Routing, you'll need:

1. A Microsoft 365 or Office 365 subscription with Teams Phone System enabled.

2. A certified SBC to connect the SIP trunk to Microsoft Teams.

3. A telephony partner or provider to supply the PSTN service.

Many IT service providers specialize in deploying Direct Routing solutions tailored to specific business needs. Some even offer managed services to handle SBC hosting, monitoring, and compliance, reducing internal workload.

Conclusion

Microsoft Direct Routing is a powerful, cost-effective solution for businesses seeking to merge traditional telephony with the collaboration power of Microsoft Teams. With enhanced flexibility, global capabilities, and greater control over communications, Direct Routing is an ideal choice for modern enterprises looking to future-proof their voice strategy.

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