The FXO port is used to connect to PBX or key systems, or to provide off-premises connections to the PSTN. It supports battery reversal detection and caller ID. The FXO port is also used to connect to analog Centralized Automatic Message Accounting (CAMA) trunks to provide dedicated E-911 service (in North America only).
The FXS port is used to connect analog phones, modems, fax machines, and speaker phones to an enterprise IP voice system, so you can use them as extensions to your Cisco or third-party IP call-control system. Having these devices tightly integrated with the IP-based phone system is advantageous for increased manageability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. The Direct Inward Dialing (DID) port is used to provide off-premises DID connection from the central office. It serves only incoming calls from the PSTN. Caller ID is not supported in DID mode.
