What is Allstream Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams?
Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams brings high-quality calling to your Teams environment. It provides Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) connectivity for customer’s Microsoft Teams’ cloud phone system. Allstream’s highly resilient Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)based voice network with dual geo-redundant Session Border Controllers (SBCs) is securely connected to multiple Microsoft Teams IP access points, allowing Allstream to deliver resilient voice traffic to and from customer’s tenant. Allstream’s Direct Routing trunks are encrypted, ensuring private and secure voice transmission.
How does Direct Routing work?
Allstream provides the customer with SIP Trunking, which allows calls to be routed 2-ways to and from Microsoft Teams and the PSTN.
Why do I need Direct Routing?
Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams is ideal for customers who are already using or thinking of using Microsoft Teams for their unified communications platform. Direct Routing enables customers to make and receive calls from individuals outside of their direct Teams environment through the PSTN.
Why should we consider Allstream for Direct Routing?
Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams seamlessly integrates high-quality voice into your existing Teams environment to facilitate easy collaboration with users on the public telephone network. Our network gives you built-in failover and rerouting options with industry-leading SLAs to ensure business continuity. With over 170 years of experience, we are committed to providing high-quality solutions that enhance your business.
What is Allstream’s experience with SIP Trunking?
Allstream was the first in Canada to introduce a SIP Trunking solution to customers. We are expanding our existing SIP portfolio to include Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams.
What do I need to for Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams?
For each Teams user you must have an E1 or E3 license with phone system add-on or an E5 license.
Are additional licenses required for Direct Routing?
No, as long as you have a Microsoft Teams License that includes phone system add-on (E1 or E3 plus phone system add-on or E5), you will not need any additional licenses for direct routing.
Does Allstream sell Microsoft 365 licenses?
No, Allstream does not sell Microsoft 365 licenses; however, you will need Microsoft licenses to have Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams.
How is Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams configured?
Allstream manages an SBC in our datacenter, which allows us to interconnect tenants to route our customers’ calls from Microsoft to the PSTN.
Who is responsible for set-up?
Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams can either be configured through their own IT administrator, or Allstream can provide a referral to a partner who specializes in configuring Teams solutions.
How do I know if my IT team is qualified to set up Direct Routing?
In order to have a smooth transition process we recommend IT leaders have experience in the following:
- PowerShell
- Domain configuration
- Experience setting up voice users in Microsoft Teams.
To learn more about Direct Routing configuration visit the Microsoft Configuration Guide.
Do I need an SBC for Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams?
No, Allstream has a Microsoft certified SBC (Metaswitch Perimeta SBC) in order to facilitate Direct Routing.
What if I already have an SBC?
You don’t need an SBC for Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams. If you already have an on-premises or cloud SBC, Allstream can provide SIP Trunking to help facilitate your voice needs.
What kind of disaster recovery measures are in place?
Allstream has built in failover and rerouting options with dual geo-redundant SBCs to connect to Microsoft Teams IP access points in both US and Canada.
Do I need to purchase a Microsoft Teams Calling Plan?
No, Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams is an alternative solution to Microsoft’s Calling Plans.
Why do I need Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams instead of a Microsoft Calling Plan?
Allstream Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams provides flexibility and cost savings to our customers.
How should I size the solution?
Allstream’s highly skilled Sales Engineers can help you determine the capacity that fits your business needs.
Can I keep my current telephone number(s)?
Yes, Allstream can do local number portability of existing numbers or new numbers for you to connect to Microsoft Teams.
How do I port numbers?
Once you provide the list of numbers to Allstream through your account representative, Allstream can facilitate bulk or individual local number portability.
How do I add numbers?
You can request new numbers through your Allstream CommPortal.
Is Caller ID included in the service?
Yes, Caller ID is included in the solution free of charge.
How do I get call detail records?
You can access and download your call detail records in Allstream’s portal.
What kind of security will I have with Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams?
Allstream’s Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams trunks are encrypted with Transport Layer Security (TLS)/Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP), ensuring private and secure voice transmission.
I am having a problem; Who do I contact for technical support?
If you are experiencing an issue with your voice or voice quality, please first check your Internet connection before contacting Allstream. If you are experiencing an issue with your Microsoft Teams administration, such as voicemail, music on hold, adding or removing users, accessing Microsoft Audio Conferencing server; please contact your Microsoft Teams administrator. If the issue persists, please contact us by generating a service ticket on our portal.