
If you're looking to implement SIP software in your business, there are many solutions to choose from. One popular option is Asterisk, an open-source PBX software that can be used to manage phone calls and voicemails.
Asterisk is highly customizable and can be integrated with various hardware and software components. It supports a wide range of protocols, including SIP, IAX, and H.323.
Some other notable SIP software solutions include FreeSWITCH, a highly scalable and flexible platform that can handle large volumes of calls. It's also known for its high availability and reliability features.
FreeSWITCH can be used to build a variety of communication systems, including voice and video conferencing platforms.
Take a look at this: Asterisk (PBX)
Servers
Servers play a crucial role in SIP software, and there are many options available.
The 3Com VCX IP telephony module is a back-to-back user agent SIP PBX, making it a great option for those looking for a reliable server solution.
3CX Phone System is compatible with both Windows and Debian 8 GNU/Linux, giving users flexibility in their server choices.
Aastra 5000, 800, and MX-ONE are all popular server options, known for their high-quality performance and features.
Servers from Alcatel-Lucent, such as the 5060 IP Call server, are also widely used and respected in the industry.
Here are some of the top servers for SIP software:
- 3Com VCX IP telephony module
- 3CX Phone System
- Aastra 5000, 800, MX-ONE
- Alcatel-Lucent 5060 IP Call server
- Aricent SIP UA stack
- AskoziaPBX
- Avaya Application Server 5300
- Bicom Systems IP PBX
- Brekeke PBX
- Cisco SIP Proxy Server
- CommuniGate Pro
- Comverse Technology softswitch
- Creacode SIP Application Server
- Dialogic Corporation Powermedia Media Servers
- Dialexia VoIP Softswitches
- GoTo Connect
- Grasshopper
- IBM WebSphere Application Server
- Interactive Intelligence Windows-based IP PBX
- Kerio Operator
- Microsoft Lync Server 2010 & 2013
- Mitel Communications Director
- NEC SV7000
- NEC UNIVERGE 3C Unified Communications and Collaboration software
- Nokia Siemens Networks hiQ8000
- Nortel SCS500
- Nortel SIP Multimedia Communication Server 5200
- Objectworld UC Server
- Oracle Communications Converged Application Server
- Oracle WebLogic SIP Server
- Spirent SIP Server Platform
- ShoreTel IP phone systems
- Snom One
- Speedflow Communications VoIP class 4/5 softswitches
- Sterlite Technologies Neox IPPBX
- Sun Microsystems Sun GlassFish Communication Server
- Tadiran Telecom Coral Ipx family
- Tandberg Video Communication Server
- Unify OpenScape Voice
- Voice Elements Inventive Labs' .NET Voice Development software
- Zultys MX250/MX30 IP PBXs
Software Licensing
Some SIP software is available under a free and open-source license, allowing users to modify and distribute the code freely. This is a great option for developers who want to customize the software to meet their specific needs.
Asterisk, ejabberd, and FreeSWITCH are just a few examples of popular SIP servers that are available under open-source licenses. These servers are highly customizable and can be used to manage SIP calls within a network.
Other software, such as Blink for Mac, LifeSize Desktop, and Polycom PVX, are proprietary and require a license to use. However, these software often offer advanced features and support that may be worth the cost.
A fresh viewpoint: List of Free and Open-source IOS Applications
Here's a list of some popular SIP software and their corresponding licenses:
- Asterisk (open-source)
- ejabberd (open-source)
- FreeSWITCH (open-source)
- Blink (proprietary)
- LifeSize Desktop (proprietary)
- Polycom PVX (proprietary)
It's worth noting that some SIP software is available under a GPL (General Public License) that requires any modifications or derivative works to also be released under the same license. This is the case for Sipdroid for Android and Siphon for iPhone OS.
Management and Tools
SIP call flow diagrams can be generated using Callflow, a tool that helps visualize SIP call flows. This can be a huge help when troubleshooting or designing SIP systems.
If you're testing SIP applications or devices, you'll want to check out Sipper, a comprehensive SIP application testing framework that can generate any call flow in minutes. Another great option is SipScenario, which can translate SIP call flows into pictures.
Some other tools worth mentioning include SIPp, a free Open Source test tool / traffic generator for the SIP protocol, and NastySip, a simple Linux program that generates bogus SIP-messages and sends them to any peer. These tools can be used for some simple tests on SIP applications and devices.
Here are some additional SIP testing tools:
- miTester for SIP: SIP testing tool that automates test execution.
- SIPbomber: SIP proxy testing tool that tests implementations against RFC 3261.
- SIPInspector: tool written in JAVA to simulate different SIP messages and scenarios.
- Vovida.org load balancer: SIP Load Balancer.
Management

Management plays a crucial role in the success of any project or organization. Effective management involves making informed decisions, prioritizing tasks, and leveraging the right tools to streamline processes.
One key aspect of management is client management. Ekiga, for instance, is a softphone that has been available since 2013, although it's no longer maintained. This highlights the importance of regularly updating and maintaining software to ensure it remains relevant and efficient.
Jami and Jitsi are two other notable clients that offer advanced features such as IAX2 protocol support and ZRTP encryption. These features can significantly enhance security and functionality, making them valuable assets for any organization.
Managing multiple clients can be overwhelming, but it's essential to consider the different operating systems and platforms they support. For example, Linphone offers a core/UI separation, allowing it to run on various platforms including Linux, OS X, and mobile phones.
Here are some notable clients and their respective platforms:
- Ekiga: Linux, OS X
- Jami: Linux, OS X, Windows
- Jitsi: FreeBSD, Linux, OS X, Windows
- Linphone: Linux, OS X, Windows, Android, iPhone, Windows Phone, BlackBerry
- Telephone: OS X
- Twinkle: Linux
- Yate client: Linux
Effective management involves being aware of the tools and resources available, and leveraging them to achieve goals. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different clients, organizations can make informed decisions and optimize their workflows.
Tools

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### Tools
You'll find a variety of tools to help you manage and test your SIP systems. One option is Codenomicon Defensics, a commercial test automation framework.
Some tools are specifically designed for SIP testing, such as Callflow, which generates SIP Call Flow diagrams, and miTester for SIP, which automates test execution.
Other tools, like SIPbomber, are designed to test implementations against RFC 3261, and SIP Inspector can simulate different SIP messages and scenarios.
For load testing, you can use tools like Ixia's commercial platform or Vovida.org's load balancer.
Here are some SIP testing tools:
- Callflow: Generates SIP Call Flow diagrams
- miTester for SIP: SIP testing tool; Automates test execution.
- SIPbomber: SIP proxy testing tool
- SIP Inspector: Simulates different SIP messages and scenarios
- Sipp: SIP performance tester
- Sipper: Open source SIP application testing framework
- SIP Proxy: SIP security testing tool.
- Sipsak: SIP testing tool
- SIPVicious tool suite: tools for auditing SIP devices
- Vovida.org load balancer: SIP Load Balancer
You can also use tools like Mu Service Analyzer, which tests SIP over ten transport stacks, and SIPp, a free Open Source test tool / traffic generator for the SIP protocol.
Other tools, like NastySip, generate bogus SIP-messages and send them to any peer, and sipsak can be used for some simple tests on SIP applications and devices.
Netdude is a framework for inspection, analysis and manipulation of tcpdump trace file.
Proxies

Proxies play a crucial role in managing and optimizing SIP communications.
There are many types of SIP proxies, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular options include Sip I/O, which can act as a lightweight SIP proxy, location server, and registrar.
SIP proxies can also bypass internet firewalls, making them a valuable asset for businesses that need to communicate with clients or partners across the globe.
A few notable examples of SIP proxies include JAIN-SIP Proxy, Mini-SIP-Proxy, and MjServer. These proxies are designed to be highly scalable and can handle large volumes of traffic.
Here are some examples of popular SIP proxies:
Some other notable mentions include OpenJSIP, which is a distributed standalone SIP proxy, and OpenSBC, which is an MPL licensed SIP proxy/registrar/B2BUA with NAT traversal and ENUM.
Platforms and Operating Systems
SIP software is available for various platforms and operating systems, making it versatile and accessible.
Asterisk, a popular open-source PBX, supports a range of protocols including SIP, IAX, and H.323, making it a great choice for those who need flexibility.
Linux clients have a wide range of options, including Baresip, Blink, and Ekiga, which offer features like video support and multiparty conferencing.
Windows clients also have a variety of options, including Blink, Ekiga, and Linphone, which offer features like audio and video support.
Here are some of the platforms and operating systems that SIP software is available for:
- Linux: Asterisk, Baresip, Blink, Ekiga, Jitsi, Linphone, minisip, MUVConf, MjUA, Open IP Phone, OpenSIPStack, OpenSoftphone, OpenZoep, Peers, PJSUA, SFLphone, sipXezPhone, sipXphone, Twinkle
- Windows: Blink, Ekiga, Jitsi, JPhone, Linphone, MicroSIP, minisip, MUVConf, MjUA, OfficeSIP Softphone, OpenSIPStack, OpenSoftphone, OpenZoep, Peers, PJSUA, sipXezPhone, sipXphone, tSIP, wxCommunicator
Pbx Platforms
PBX platforms are a crucial part of any communication system, and there are many open-source options available.
Some popular PBX platforms include Asterisk, which supports IAX, SIP, MGCP, H.323, and other protocols.
Asterisk is an open-source PBX that offers a wide range of features and is highly customizable.
CallWeaver is another option, which is a fork of Asterisk with T.38 termination.
FreeSwitch is an open-source PBX and soft switch that offers scalability and flexibility.
Here are some of the most notable PBX platforms:
- Asterisk: Open Source PBX that supports IAX, SIP, MGCP, H.323, and other protocols
- CallWeaver: a fork of Asterisk with T.38 termination
- FreeSwitch: Open Source PBX and Soft Switch
- OpenPBX: Open Source PBX developed using Perl
- PBX4Linux: ISDN PBX with H.323 GW
- sipwitch: GNU project’s Pure SIP call server
- sipX – The SIP PBX for Linux from SIPfoundry
- YATE Yet Another Telephony Engine – supports H.323, SIP, IAX, PSTN
These platforms offer a range of features and are highly customizable, making them a great option for businesses and organizations looking for a reliable and flexible communication system.
Linux
Linux is a fantastic operating system for VoIP enthusiasts, offering a wide range of SIP client options.
SBO Multipath with Integrated SyncSwitch is a Linux-based SIP solution that's worth checking out.
Baresip Portable SIP useragent with Video support is a great choice for Linux users who need a reliable and feature-rich SIP client.
Blink is another popular option, supporting wideband VoIP, Chat, File Transfer, and Multiparty conferencing based on MSRP protocol.
Ekiga is a versatile softphone that supports SIP, H.323 audio and video, and is available for Linux, Solaris, Windows, and various Unix systems.
Jitsi is a powerful and open-source SIP client that offers end-to-end encryption through ZRTP and supports multiple protocols, including XMPP, MSN, AIM, and Yahoo!.
Here are some other notable Linux SIP clients:
- KPhone
- Linphone
- minisip
- MUVConf
- MjUA
- Open IP Phone
- OpenSIPStack
- OpenSoftphone
- OpenZoep
- Peers
- PJSUA
- SFLphone
- sipXezPhone
- sipXphone
- Twinkle
- CRM Integration Client
Security and Firewalls
Security and firewalls play a crucial role in protecting your SIP communications. Check Point's VPN-1 firewalls include complete SIP support for multiple vendors.
To ensure secure SIP communication, you'll want to choose a firewall that's SIP-capable. Intertex SIP Transparent Routers, Firewalls and ADSL modems are a good option for broadband deployments and the SOHO market.
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Cisco PIX/ASA firewalls and the firewall feature in Cisco IOS also include complete SIP support. This makes them great choices for businesses that need robust security.
Some firewalls, like SonicWall and D-Link Firewall DFL-210/260/800/860/1600/2500, support SIP with firmware 2.20.01.05 and above. This means you can enjoy secure SIP communication with these devices.
Other notable mentions include ZyXEL ZyWALL P1, 2Plus, 5 UTM, 35 UTM, 70 UTM, 1050, USG 100, USG 200, USG 300, and USG 1000, which all support SIP-ALG. Fortinet's All FortiGates running v280/v300 Builds also have SIP support.
If you're looking for a more customized solution, you can consider using LinuxNetfilter's SIP conntrack helper. This helper fully understands SIP and can classify (for QOS) and NAT all related traffic.
For a more open-source approach, you can try PfSense FreeBSD based PfSense Firewall, which has QoS that properly tags voip traffic and a sip proxy package that is available for NATed endpoints.
JuniperNetscreen and SRX firewalls also include complete SIP Application Layer Gateway support. This is a great option for businesses that need advanced security features.
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Libraries and Stacks
Libraries and stacks are essential components of SIP software, and there are many options to choose from. The PJSIP stack, for example, is a small footprint, high performance, and ultra-portable SIP stack written in C, with language bindings for Python.
Some stacks are written in C/C++, while others are written in Java or .NET. The Indigo Software SIP library, for instance, is a Java-based SIP library. The Lumisoft SIP library, on the other hand, is a .NET-based SIP library.
The OpenSIPStack is a notable example of a SIP stack that's licensed under the MPL. It also supports ENUM, Presence (XMPP/SIMPLE), and NAT traversal.
Here's a list of some notable SIP stacks and libraries:
- BaseVoice
- eXoSIP
- HelloSoft HelloSIP
- Indigo Software (Java)
- Juphoon
- Konnetic (.NET)
- Lumisoft (.NET)
- NIST
- OpenSIPStack
- oSIP
- PJSIP
- reSIProcate
- sofia-sip
- Telogy
- Trillium
- Unicoi
- U4EA
- Wind River Systems
These stacks and libraries are designed to be highly portable and can run on a variety of platforms, including smartphones and desktops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are SIP applications?
SIP applications enable instant messaging, telephony, and real-time collaboration over IP networks. Examples include voice and video calls, messaging, and conferencing.
What is SIP in software?
SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is a communication protocol that enables real-time multiuser sessions, regardless of the media content. It's a key technology for building modern communication systems, including VoIP, video conferencing, and instant messaging.
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