WESTFORD, Mass. -- Sonus Networks (Nasdaq: SONS), a leading provider of voice infrastructure solutions for the new public network, is advancing the state of softswitching with its distributed softswitch architecture, the Insignus(TM) Softswitch. The Insignus Softswitch expands upon the industry-leading softswitching technologies that Sonus has been deploying for years, and provides new modules that deliver residential Class 5 and enterprise Centrex services, full H.323 gatekeeper and gateway functionality, as well as comprehensive SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) support. The Insignus Softswitch builds on the field-proven capabilities of Sonus' softswitch solutions to deliver the highest levels of flexibility, scalability, performance and redundancy. With its unique modular software architecture, the Insignus Softswitch provides the rich functionality necessary to support a full range of carrier applications including trunking, Internet call diversion, tandem replacement and access. "As the new public network continues to evolve, carriers seek a comprehensive softswitch solution that will accommodate their requirements today, and will grow forward with them in the future," said Terri Griffin, vice president, marketing, Sonus Networks. "With the Insignus Softswitch, we are raising the bar for softswitching. We have leveraged the considerable experience we have gained through our deployment in major carrier networks to develop a highly robust solution that flexibly supports multiple carrier applications in a single platform." Sonus Networks Inc.