The Future of TDM SS7 Traffic: Is It Really Dead?

For over two decades, many have proclaimed the demise of TDM. Yet, contrary to these predictions, TDM continues to thrive. Some attribute its persistence to telephone cooperatives and small telcos in rural America, which lack the broadband infrastructure for VoIP, thereby relying heavily on TDM networks.While it's true that some experts predicted TDM's extinction by 2023, there's a silver lining. Many small ILECs are now exploring and even transitioning to modern technologies. However, they face challenges:

1. Aging Workforce:Those proficient in maintaining legacy switches are retiring, and there's a dearth of experts to replace them.

2. Waning Manufacturer Support: Few manufacturers are investing in legacy systems, and many are disinterested in supporting older protocols in their new products.

3. Knowledge Gap: Upcoming professionals adept at VoIP often lack an understanding of SS7 networks, focusing primarily on SIP. This creates a challenge in ensuring NECA compliance and devising a comprehensive transition plan.