The 10 Best Session Border Controllers 2025

In the dynamic world of telecommunications, the Session Border Controller (SBC) has emerged as a pivotal component in maintaining the security, quality, and efficiency of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) communications. As enterprises increasingly adopt VoIP solutions, selecting the right SBC becomes critical. This blog aims to provide the top 10 Session Border Controllers for 2024, focusing on their features, capabilities, and suitability for different business needs. Whether you are looking for an enterprise session border controller, an open-source session border controller, or the best SBC for VoIP, this guide has you covered.

What is SBC in VoIP?

A Session Border Controller (SBC) is vital in modern communication networks, designed to manage and safeguard IP communication sessions. Think of it as the gatekeeper between different network segments, ensuring that VoIP traffic moves smoothly and securely across boundaries. 

However, SBCs have evolved from being just a security checkpoint to becoming intelligent enablers of modern communication systems.

Beyond its foundational role of managing and safeguarding IP communication sessions, SBCs now incorporate advanced features like AI-powered traffic optimization, dynamic bandwidth management, and predictive analytics for call quality. 

According to a report by Researchnester, the global SBC market is projected to grow from $719.5 million in 2024 to $1.62 billion by 2034 (at a 7.1% CAGR), and their importance will only rise. Acting as the bridge between network segments, SBCs ensure seamless and secure VoIP traffic, even in multi-cloud and hybrid environments.

As businesses shift to decentralized and multi-vendor communication ecosystems, SBCs are increasingly critical for addressing interoperability challenges, preventing cyber threats like SIP-based attacks, and maintaining top-notch Quality of Service (QoS).

Importance of SBC in Modern Telecommunications

The adoption of VoIP and other IP-based communication systems has brought about numerous benefits, including cost savings and flexibility. However, it has also introduced new challenges, such as security threats, interoperability issues, and quality of service concerns. SBCs address these challenges by providing robust security features, ensuring seamless interoperability between different networks, and optimizing the performance of communication sessions.

➤ Key Features of an Enterprise Session Border Controller

An enterprise session border controller (SBC) offers numerous features designed to enhance the security, reliability, and performance of VoIP communications. Some of the key features include:

1. Security

Security is a big concern for any organization implementing VoIP solutions. Here’s how SBCs enhance security:

• Firewall Protection: SBCs act as firewalls (the reverse is not the same—refer to SBC vs Firewall: Usages and Differences), protecting the network from unauthorized access and various types of attacks, such as DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) and DoS (Denial of Service) attacks.
• Encryption: They support encryption protocols such as TLS and SRTP to ensure secure communication.
• Access Control: SBCs provide advanced access control mechanisms to authenticate and authorize users, preventing unauthorized access.

2. Interoperability

Interoperability is a critical factor when choosing a SBC for your business. Here’s what you should consider regarding interoperability in SBCs:

• Protocol Translation: SBCs facilitate seamless communication between different networks by translating various signaling protocols (e.g., SIP, H.323).
• Codec Support: They support a wide range of codecs, ensuring compatibility with various communication systems and devices.

3. Quality of Service (QoS)

Quality of Service (QoS) is a crucial aspect of maintaining high-performance and reliable VoIP communication systems. Here’s how SBCs ensure superior QoS:

• Traffic Shaping: SBCs optimize the flow of traffic, ensuring that high-priority communication sessions receive the necessary bandwidth.
• Jitter Buffering: They mitigate issues related to network latency and jitter, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted communication.

4. Network Management

Effective network management is a critical function of SBCs. Here’s an in-depth look at how network management is handled by SBCs:

• Monitoring and Reporting: SBCs provide comprehensive monitoring and reporting tools, allowing administrators to track performance metrics and identify potential issues.
• High Availability: They support redundancy and failover, making sure continuous operation even during hardware or software failures.
  

Open Source Session Border Controllers

Open-source session border controllers (SBCs) are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and ability to cater to diverse business needs. As businesses increasingly seek customizable solutions for VoIP systems, open-source SBCs like Kamailio, FreeSWITCH, and OpenSIPS have emerged as top choices.

➤ Kamailio

Kamailio is a powerful and flexible open source SBC, suitable for a wide range of applications. It is known for its scalability, performance, and extensive feature set.

Key Features

• Security:  Advanced security features, including access control and encryption.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple signaling protocols and codecs.
• QoS: Comprehensive traffic management features.
• Network Management: Detailed monitoring and reporting tools.

Pros: Highly scalable and flexible, Extensive feature set, Active community support.

Cons: Requires technical expertise to configure and manage, Limited commercial support.

➤ FreeSWITCH

FreeSWITCH is another popular open-source SBC. It offers flexible solutions for various communication needs. It is known for its performance, reliability, and feature set.

Key Features

• Security: Strong security features, including encryption and access control.
• Interoperability: Supports a wide range of protocols and codecs.
• QoS: Effective traffic management and jitter buffering.
• Network Management: Detailed monitoring and reporting tools.

Pros: High performance and reliability, Extensive feature set, Active community support.

Cons: Requires technical expertise to configure and manage, Limited commercial support.

➤ OpenSIPS

OpenSIPS is also a commonly-used open source SBC with various features and customization options. It is suitable for various applications, from small businesses to large enterprises.

Key Features

• Security: Sophisticated security features, such as encryption and access control.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple signaling protocols and codecs.
• QoS: Comprehensive traffic management features.
• Network Management: Detailed monitoring and reporting tools.

Pros: Highly scalable and flexible, Extensive feature set, Active community support.

Cons: Requires technical expertise to configure and manage, Limited commercial support.

Top Session Border Controllers in 2025

Here’s everything you need to know about the best Session Border Controllers in 2025. 

1. Ecosmob SBC 

Ecosmob SBC is designed to provide robust security, interoperability, and seamless VoIP communication for businesses of all sizes. It is known for its advanced features and cost-effective solutions.

Key Features

• Security: Comprehensive encryption, firewall protection, and advanced access controls.
• Interoperability: Broad support for various VoIP protocols and codecs, ensuring compatibility.
• Quality of Service (QoS): Includes traffic shaping and jitter buffering for superior communication quality.
• Network Management: Extensive monitoring and reporting tools for effective management.

Pros: Strong security features, Cost-effective for businesses of all sizes, Detailed management tools.

Cons: Advanced configurations may need technical expertise.

Suitability: Perfect for businesses seeking a reliable, secure, and cost-effective SBC with extensive management capabilities.

2. Cisco Unified Border Element (CUBE) SBC

Cisco Unified Border Element (CUBE) is a well-established leader in the SBC market. It provides features designed to meet the needs of enterprises and service providers. CUBE is known for its reliability, scalability, and extensive protocol support.

Key Features

• Interoperability: Supports a wide range of protocols and codecs, ensuring compatibility with various VoIP systems.
• Security: Advanced security features, including encryption, DoS protection, and call admission control.
• Scalability: Easily scalable to support large enterprise deployments.
• Management: Comprehensive management tools for monitoring and configuring the SBC.

Pros: Highly reliable and scalable, Extensive protocol and codec support, Robust security features.

Cons: It can be complex to manage, Higher cost compared to some competitors.

Suitability: CUBE is ideal for large enterprises and service providers looking for a robust and scalable solution.

3. Oracle Communications Session Border Controller

Oracle Communications Session Border Controller is another top-tier product known for its high performance and comprehensive security features. It is widely used by service providers and large enterprises.

Key Features

• High Performance: Capable of handling high call volumes with low latency.
• Security: Includes features such as encryption, fraud detection, and prevention.
• Flexibility: Supports a wide range of deployment models and configurations.
• Integration: Seamless integration with Oracle’s suite of communication products.

Pros: High performance with low latency, Comprehensive security features, and flexible deployment options.

Cons: Can be expensive and may require significant expertise to deploy and manage.

Suitability: Best suited for service providers and large enterprises requiring high performance and extensive security features.

4. Audiocodes Mediant Series SBC

Audiocodes Mediant Series SBCs are known for their reliability and flexibility. They cater to large enterprises and small businesses and offer various models to suit different deployment needs.

Key Features

• Versatility: Available in various models, from small business session border controllers to enterprise-grade solutions.
• Security: Robust security features, including encryption and fraud prevention.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: Easy-to-use management interface for configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Versatile and flexible range of models, Strong security features, User-friendly management interface.

Cons: Some models can be costly, and technical expertise may be required for advanced configurations.

Suitability: Good for businesses of all sizes looking for a reliable and versatile SBC solution.

5. Ribbon Communications SBC 5000 Series

Ribbon Communications SBC 5000 Series is designed for medium to large enterprises and service providers. It is known for its high capacity and advanced security features.

Key Features

• High Capacity: Can handle a large number of simultaneous sessions.
• Security: Advanced security features, including encryption, DDoS protection, and access control.
• Interoperability: Supports a wide range of VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: Comprehensive management tools for monitoring and configuration.

Pros: High capacity for large deployments, Advanced security features, Wide protocol and codec support.

Cons: Higher cost, Complex deployment, and management.

Suitability: Best suited for medium to large enterprises and service providers needing high capacity and advanced security.

6. Metaswitch Perimeta SBC

Metaswitch Perimeta is a flexible and scalable SBC designed for service providers and enterprises. It offers excellent performance and a comprehensive set of features.

Key Features

• Scalability: Highly scalable, suitable for a range of deployment sizes.
• Security: Comprehensive security features, including encryption and fraud detection.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: User-friendly management interface for easy configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Highly scalable for various deployment sizes, Comprehensive security features, and Easy-to-use management interface.

Cons: Can get expensive and may require technical expertise for setup and management.

Suitability: Ideal for service providers and enterprises looking for a scalable and high-performance SBC.

7. Edgewater Networks EdgeMarc Series SBC

Edgewater Networks EdgeMarc Series SBCs are designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a balance of performance, security, and cost-effectiveness.

Key Features

• Cost-Effective: Affordable solution for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Security: Robust security features, including encryption and DoS protection.
• Interoperability: Supports a wide range of VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: Easy-to-use management tools for configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Cost-effective for small to medium-sized businesses, Strong security features, Easy management interface.

Cons: Limited scalability for very large deployments, Basic features compared to high-end SBCs.

Suitability: Best for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a cost-effective and reliable SBC.

8. Sangoma Vega SBC Series

Sangoma Vega SBC Series offers a range of models suitable for different business sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises. It is known for its flexibility and reliability.

Key Features

• Flexibility: Available in various models to suit different deployment needs.
• Security: Comprehensive security features, including encryption and fraud prevention.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: User-friendly management interface for easy configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Flexible range of models, Strong security features, User-friendly management interface.

Cons: Some models can be costly, May require technical expertise for advanced configurations.

Suitability: Best for businesses of all sizes looking for a flexible and reliable SBC solution.

9. Patton SmartNode Series SBC

Patton SmartNode Series SBCs are designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a balance of performance, security, and affordability.

Key Features

• Affordability: Cost-efficient solution for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Security: Robust security features, including encryption and fraud prevention.
• Interoperability: Supports a wide range of VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: Easy-to-use management tools for configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Affordable for small to medium-sized businesses, Strong security features, Easy management interface.

Cons: Limited scalability for very large deployments, Basic features compared to high-end SBCs.

Suitability: Best for small to medium-sized businesses looking for an affordable and reliable SBC.

10. TelcoBridges ProSBC

TelcoBridges ProSBC is an open source session border controller that offers features suitable for enterprises and service providers. It is known for its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Key Features

• Open Source: Cost-effective solution with the flexibility of open source software.
• Security: Comprehensive security features including encryption and fraud prevention.
• Interoperability: Supports multiple VoIP protocols and codecs.
• Management: User-friendly management interface for easy configuration and monitoring.

Pros: Cost-effective open source solution, Flexible and customizable, Comprehensive security features.

Cons: It requires technical expertise for setup and customization and has limited support compared to proprietary solutions.

Suitability: Ideal for enterprises and service providers looking for a flexible and cost-effective SBC solution.

Comparison Table of Best Session Border Controllers for 2025

Below is a concise comparison of the top Session Border Controllers for 2025, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons for a quick overview.

How to Choose the Best SBC for Your Business

With various options available in the market, choosing the best SBC solution and the best SBC vendors for your business can be challenging.

Here are some questions you should consider before selecting an SBC solution.

What security features to look for in a Session Border Controller? 

You should ensure the SBC solution offers encryption, firewall protection, and advanced access control to protect your VoIP communications. 

Which SBC is best for compatibility with the current VoIP system?

Try to look for SBCs that support the necessary signaling protocols (like SIP or H.323) and codecs to integrate seamlessly with your current setup that your team is already comfortable with.

What is the cost of implementing an enterprise SBC solution? 

To start, you can compare the initial purchase, licensing fees, and ongoing maintenance costs to find an SBC that fits your budget and delivers a strong ROI.

How to choose a scalable SBC for growing VoIP traffic? 

To make sure you don’t face issues as your business grows, opt for SBCs that can handle increasing session volumes and support additional users without performance issues.

Which SBC solution provides the best Quality of Service (QoS) features? 

Ensure the SBC solution includes traffic shaping, jitter buffering, and other QoS capabilities to maintain reliable, high-performance communication.

How does the SBC handle interoperability across multiple vendors? 

Check if the SBC can facilitate seamless communication across different systems and devices by supporting protocol translation and a variety of codecs.

Security, scalability, cost, compatibility, and interoperability are aspects of SBCs that impact your business in big ways—aspects you cannot ignore. Evaluating the SBC options based on these aspects—using the above questions—can help guide you to the best SBC solution for your business. 

With so many factors to weigh, finding the right SBC solution can be overwhelming. 

Sometimes, a custom solution is what makes all the difference—one that grows with your business and effortlessly handles the quirks of your communication system.

If you’re unsure where to start, Ecosmob has the expertise to guide you toward a solution that truly works for you!

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