What is Asterisk.

Asterisk is a popular framework that can be used for building communications applications such as an IP PBX, VoIP gateways and other solutions. Asterisk is a pioneer in the field of open source PBX software packages. This technology helps to convert a normal computer into a communications server. That enables the attached telephone lines to call each other as well as connect to other services such as VoIP and PSTN networks.

Asterisk communication systems are utilized by both large and small businesses and government agencies across 170 countries. This platform can run on a wide variety of operating systems such as NetBSD, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, Solaris and Mac OS X, Linux, and Microsoft Windows. Asterisk is a flexible system, and is a helpful learning tool for students interested in studying telephony and telecommunications.

This white paper will explore the following:

• Asterisk’s features
• Its history and evolution
• Different ways to utilize the system
• How to build an Asterisk-based call center