VOIP Tech Chat → VoIP usage monitors

Hello:

Let's say that you have an ATA that allows you to set up 4 Service Suppliers, which you do. Each SP has different rate structures.

Are there programs that monitor your usage and, based on your various SP's and usage to date, select the cheapest SP to use on your next call?

Is this a ridiculous question?

Thanks,

Rob.

Its called Dynamic Least Cost Routing (LCR), or Route Optimization. If you Google the term, you'll find lots of vendors selling packages that do what you want - some with free trials. I doubt you'll find the software economical for individual use, but you never know until you look.

I believe the term used to describe this is called Least Cost Routing (LCR) which most, if not all, free IP PBX Systems have implemented. What I am not sure is if any existing SoHo ATA devices has LCR feature included.

Aside from anything else, you need to consider the expenses involved in tracking multiple accounts, maintaining various balances, etc.

I can see the value of LCR if this is significant usage such as from a medium-size or large-size business, and/or a lot of international calls....

But not for the residential or SOHO user.

The LCR software itself will need to be updated with rate info, either by you or by some 3rd party that you are paying. Either way, the costs will outweigh the savings.

Really, if you are making Canadian calls using someone like Voip.MS, CallWithUs, or Localphone, you are already paying very low rates. I don't even know how you'd go lower.

TL/DR: This does not seem cost-effective except on a rather large scale.

Thanks people!