Metaswitch is a cloud-native communications platform that provides carriers and service providers with the technology needed to deliver VoIP, UCaaS, cloud PBX, and modern voice services.
It was acquired by Microsoft in 2020, and today it forms part of Microsoft’s telecommunications infrastructure strategy — especially for operators building next-generation networks.
Here’s the clear breakdown:
What Metaswitch Is
Metaswitch is a network software company that creates the core systems telecom providers use to run their voice networks.
It includes:
- IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) core
- Session Border Controllers (SBCs)
- Softswitches
- Carrier VoIP platforms
- Cloud-native voice and UC applications
Think of it as the “engine room” for modern telecom voice services.
Who Uses It
Metaswitch isn’t typically purchased by end customers. Instead, telecom carriers, ISPs, and MSPs deploy Metaswitch to power their:
- Hosted PBX services
- SIP trunking
- VoIP networks
- Unified communications offerings
- Cloud voice applications
Many regional carriers and Tier-1 providers run Metaswitch as the backbone of their voice network.
Why It’s Important
1. Cloud-Native Architecture
Metaswitch was ahead of its time, building fully virtualized telecom infrastructure long before most competitors. This made it ideal for carriers migrating from TDM to IP.
2. Extremely Reliable and Scalable
It’s designed for carrier-level uptime and can scale from small rural providers to massive operators.
3. Highly Flexible and Interoperable
Metaswitch connects seamlessly with many SIP phones, PBX systems, SBCs, and network environments.
4. Strategic to Microsoft’s Telecom Push
Microsoft’s acquisition strengthens Teams Calling and Operator Connect by giving Microsoft:
- telecom-grade calling infrastructure
- deep VoIP expertise
- direct integration paths for carriers
How It Compares to BroadSoft
Both platforms provide hosted voice infrastructure, but:
| BroadSoft (Cisco) | Metaswitch (Microsoft) |
|---|---|
| Extremely mature cloud PBX platform used by large carriers worldwide | Highly flexible, cloud-native platform used heavily by regional and mid-size carriers |
| Strong in advanced PBX/UC features | Strong in softswitching, IMS, and cloud-native voice systems |
| Providers build UCaaS on top | Providers build VoIP/UC or SIP trunks with full control |
| Cisco ecosystem | Microsoft ecosystem |
In Simple Terms
Metaswitch is the technology that telecom providers use to power VoIP, PBX, and UC services. It’s like BroadSoft’s counterpart on the Microsoft side — a behind-the-scenes engine that makes carrier-grade voice possible.