Operator Connect is a Microsoft Teams calling solution that enables organizations to use PSTN phone numbers from a Microsoft-certified telecom operator without deploying or managing their own SBCs (Session Border Controllers).
What is Operator Connect?
Operator Connect integrates telecom providers directly with Microsoft Teams using Microsoft-managed connectivity. It allows users to make and receive PSTN calls from Teams with minimal setup and no on-premise voice infrastructure.
Requirements for Operator Connect
1. Teams Phone License
Users must have an active Microsoft Teams Phone (Phone System) license.
2. TeamsOnly Mode
Users must be upgraded to TeamsOnly mode. The entire tenant does not need to be in TeamsOnly mode.
3. Certified Operator
The telecom operator must be listed in Microsoft’s Operator Connect directory.
4. Operator Network Requirements
Operators must meet Microsoft standards including certified SBCs, Azure peering, and API integration.
5. No Customer-Managed SBC
Unlike Direct Routing, Operator Connect does not require a customer-managed SBC.
How to Implement Operator Connect
- Assign Microsoft Teams Phone license to users
- Login to Teams Admin Center
- Navigate to Voice → Operator Connect
- Select a certified operator
- Request new phone numbers or port existing numbers
- Assign numbers to users
- Configure dial plans and emergency call routing
- Test inbound and outbound calling
Benefits of Operator Connect
- No SBC management required
- Simple and fast deployment
- High reliability with Azure direct peering
- Operator-managed PSTN service
- Ideal for mid to large-sized organizations
Operator Connect vs Direct Routing
| Feature | Operator Connect | Direct Routing |
|---|---|---|
| SBC Ownership | Operator | Customer |
| Deployment Speed | Fast | Slow and complex |
| Flexibility | Medium | High |
| Custom Routing | Limited | Full control |
| Maintenance | Operator-managed | Customer-managed |
When to Use Operator Connect
- You do not want to manage SBCs
- You want Teams-native calling
- Your telecom provider is certified
- You need faster deployment
Interview and Certification Notes
- Operator Connect provides PSTN calling in Teams using certified operators.
- It does not require customer-managed SBCs.
- Users must be in TeamsOnly mode.
- Teams Phone license is mandatory.
- Direct Routing provides more control but requires SBC management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Operator Connect in Microsoft Teams?
Operator Connect is a Teams calling solution that connects PSTN services from certified telecom providers directly into Microsoft Teams.
Do I need an SBC for Operator Connect?
No. The SBC is managed by the telecom operator, not by the customer.
Is TeamsOnly mode required?
Yes. Users must be in TeamsOnly mode to use Operator Connect.
Who should use Operator Connect?
Organizations that want fast deployment and do not want to manage voice infrastructure should use Operator Connect.
