The Golden Number (GN) solution enables the user to replace all his or her telephone numbers (home, office, mobile, voicemail) with a single, “virtual” number. The user’s real numbers are simply hidden. The solution allows the users to instantly choose their incoming calls’ profiles and set various call scenarios, depending on the time/day of the call, the calling number and many other criteria.
The Golden Number service is a number-translation service, where the AS replies to the queries from the network (switches) with a changed routing number. The Golden Number is a fictive number that has no port connected to it, and each user of the GN service is given a single “golden number”. The logic of the translation of the GN to the real number is under the user’s control. The user can be a single subscriber, a corporate administrator, etc., and has its own user profile where the translation logic is stored.
The Golden Number offers a wide range of applications, especially where end users’ numbers have to remain anonymous. It is possible to organize an ad-hoc virtual PBX group with automatic call distribution and attach several end users’ numbers, which are connected in the case of an incoming call. The Golden Number supports all types of terminal (POTS, ISDN, GSM, SIP, etc.).
A call to the GN results in the routing of a call to the MSP using the existing ISUP protocol. When the call arrives to the MSP, the query in the GN database is made and the proper number is provided. That number is then sent back to the switch within the REL (release) message. The call is further routed to a new number in any network. The “query call” to the MSP is very short (it takes 100-200 ms) and so does not occupy system resources.
Benefits
- The user has complete freedom to control incoming calls in real time from any location (internet, WAP, SMS, USSD).
- The queries and responses are registered to the MSP database and can be used for charging purposes.
- The solution is appropriate for all network operators (fixed and mobile).
- The GN solution is open for NGN architecture and is IMS oriented – introducing an Application Server layer for a future IMS solution.
- The cost reduction for users.