Quick Summary:
There are two main ways to connect Microsoft Teams to the public phone network: Operator Connect and Direct Routing. Operator Connect is managed within Teams, ideal for fast deployments. Direct Routing is more flexible and suited for complex environments. This guide explains both and helps you decide which fits your needs.
Operator Connect is Microsoft’s integrated carrier model for Teams Phone. It lets you connect to the PSTN through a certified provider, all managed via the Teams Admin Center. You don’t need to deploy or manage your own Session Border Controller (SBC).
Direct Routing connects Teams to the PSTN using your own certified SBC and a voice provider. It offers more flexibility and control, especially for complex or hybrid environments with legacy systems.
| Feature | Operator Connect | Direct Routing |
| Setup | Through Teams Admin Center | Via certified Session Border Controller |
| Ideal Use Case | Cloud-first, standard deployments | Complex, hybrid, regulated environments |
| SBC Required | No | Yes |
| Provisioning Time | Fast | Flexible, but longer |
| Management | Microsoft-hosted | Customer-hosted or managed by provider |
| Number Porting | Provider-managed | Fully controlled |
| Legacy/Analog Support | Limited | Full support |
Use both if you need the best of both: rapid provisioning for standard users and flexible routing for complex sites.
Pure IP helps global enterprises build resilient, scalable Teams Phone solutions — no matter how complex the environment. Whether you’re migrating from a legacy PBX or switching providers, we simplify voice.
Not sure which Teams Phone model is right for your business? Our experts will map the right solution — or mix — for your needs.