A brief overview of telephone number mapping (ENUM), its connection to E.164, and how it fits within VoIP and SIP communication systems.
Understanding ENUM
Most 11-digit phone numbers are part of a global numbering plan specified by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in Recommendation E.164.
ENUM stands for telephone number mapping. It unifies the international PSTN with internet addressing. And, it defines how to use the Domain Name System (DNS) to locate services associated with E.164 addresses. But what does this mean, and why is it relevant?
Let’s dive in!
What is Telephone Number Mapping?
Telephone number mapping is the process of pairing telephone numbers with internet identification and addresses. Specifically, ENUM (E.164 number to URI mapping) translates phone numbers into internet addresses (URL or IP address), allowing users to dial a phone number and reach a SIP or IP telephony destination.
A server supported by ENUM will search for the dialed phone number within the ENUM tree of the DNS. It does this to see if there is an alternate way to connect the call. If a SIP address exists for that number, the call routes via the internet or IP. Otherwise, it routes normally through the PSTN.
ENUM Registration & Rules
Users must register phone numbers for ENUM just like they would register for a domain. However, many VoIP providers offer to do this for free.
In most cases, you will need to complete the standardized ENUM request form, which is then registered with the International Telecommunication Union, Telecommunication Standardization Sector, and Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (ITU-T TSB). Once registered, the number is ready for international use.
You can then decide and choose rules for how calls should be routed. In fact, you can set up and define specific routes for several call types.
How Global Call Forwarding Can Help
Global Call Forwarding is a cloud telephony service provider. In other words, we help users make and receive calls through the internet and with cloud phone numbers.
You can use our service and Softphone to reach a SIP or IP destination, or to call another VoIP user through their SIP address.
We can provide consultations and solutions to help you with your business calling needs. Want to learn more about telephone number mapping? Call us at +1 (561) 908-6171 and to learn about our international voice service.
