Difference between ISDN and public switched telephone networks (PSTN)?

In summary, ISDN and PSTN are both types of telephone networks. ISDN is a digital network that allows for the transmission of various types of data, while PSTN has historically only transmitted voice. ISDN can work on top of PSTN, but a true ISDN connection would not utilize the PSTN. Non-ISDN calls can be made from an ISDN line to a traditional POTS line and may cross the PSTN.
  • #1
LM741
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hi all.

stuggling to determine the difference between ISDN and public switched telephone networks (PSTN). I know what each one is individually i just don't know how they relate to each other... Does ISDN use PSTN?
What i undersatnd is that PSTNs have only transmitted voice in the past but now because of ISDN other types of data are also transmitted over the telephone network. So is ISDN some network that works on top of PSTN?

thanks
 
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  • #2
ISDN, whether BRI or PRI leave the premise and are routed to an ISDN Node.they are then carried as SDS (Switched digital service). A true ISDN connection ISDN to ISDN would not utilize the PSTN. However, non ISDN calls can be made from an ISDN line to a pots line and the egress can cross the PSTN.
 
  • #3


ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) and PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) are both telecommunication networks used for transmitting voice and data signals. However, there are some key differences between the two.

PSTN is the traditional telephone network that has been used for decades to transmit voice signals over copper wires. It is a circuit-switched network, meaning that a dedicated physical connection is established between two parties for the duration of the call. PSTN is limited to transmitting only voice signals and has a fixed bandwidth, which can result in slower data transmission.

On the other hand, ISDN is a digital telecommunication network that was developed to provide faster and more efficient data transmission. It uses digital signals and can transmit both voice and data signals simultaneously over the same line. ISDN is a packet-switched network, meaning that data is broken down into smaller packets and sent over the network, allowing for more efficient use of bandwidth.

So, to answer your question, ISDN does not use PSTN. ISDN is a separate network that operates independently, but it can be connected to the PSTN in order to reach non-ISDN devices, such as traditional landline phones.

In summary, PSTN is the older, traditional telephone network that is limited to transmitting only voice signals, while ISDN is a newer, digital network that can transmit both voice and data signals simultaneously. They are not the same network, but they can be interconnected to allow for communication between different types of devices.
 

1. What is the main difference between ISDN and PSTN?

The main difference between ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) and PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) is the digital nature of ISDN compared to the analog nature of PSTN. ISDN uses digital signals to transmit voice, data, and video, while PSTN uses analog signals.

2. Can you use both ISDN and PSTN for making phone calls?

Yes, both ISDN and PSTN can be used for making phone calls. However, ISDN offers a higher quality of voice transmission due to its digital nature and can also support other types of communication, such as video conferencing and data transfer.

3. Which network is more reliable, ISDN or PSTN?

ISDN is considered to be more reliable compared to PSTN. This is because ISDN uses digital signals which are less susceptible to interference and noise, resulting in clearer and more consistent communication.

4. Are there any cost differences between ISDN and PSTN?

ISDN tends to be more expensive compared to PSTN. This is because ISDN requires specialized equipment and infrastructure to support its digital signals. PSTN, on the other hand, uses existing analog infrastructure and is therefore more cost-effective.

5. Can both ISDN and PSTN be used for internet access?

Yes, both ISDN and PSTN can be used for internet access. However, ISDN offers higher speeds and more reliable connections compared to PSTN. Additionally, ISDN allows for simultaneous voice and data transmission, making it more suitable for businesses with high communication and data transfer needs.

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