Kamailio

Self-Hosted

Open-source SIP server for scalable VoIP and real-time communication

Overview

Kamailio is a high-performance, open-source SIP server designed for building scalable VoIP, real-time communication (RTC) platforms, and unified messaging systems. It supports SIP-based protocols like VoIP calls, instant messaging, presence, and WebRTC. Deployable via Docker, pre-built Linux packages, or source code, it integrates with databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL) and messaging tools for advanced routing, load balancing, and security (TLS, IP filtering). Ideal for carriers, enterprises, and service providers needing customizable, reliable RTC infrastructure.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  kamailio:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: kamailio
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

High-performance SIP routing and load balancing
Support for WebRTC, VoIP, instant messaging, and presence
Extensible via 100+ modules for custom functionality

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Kamailio hard to install?

Kamailio offers simple installation options: Docker images, pre-built packages for Debian/Ubuntu/CentOS, or source code compilation. Basic setup is manageable with official docs, but advanced configurations (WebRTC, load balancing) require SIP protocol and server admin knowledge.

? Is Kamailio a good alternative to proprietary SIP servers like CUCM?

Yes—Kamailio provides core SIP functionality (routing, security, scalability) with open-source benefits: no vendor lock-in, full customization via modules, and community support. It’s cost-effective for organizations avoiding proprietary licensing fees.

? Is Kamailio completely free?

Kamailio is 100% free under the GPLv2 license. There are no licensing costs, though you may pay for server hosting, hardware, or professional support if required for enterprise-grade deployments.

Top Alternatives

Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) Search Google

Avaya Aura Session Manager Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Communication - SIP

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused self-hosted control over RTC data
⊕ Scalable for millions of concurrent SIP sessions
⊕ No licensing fees (open-source GPLv2 license)

Cons

⊖ Requires technical expertise for advanced configuration
⊖ No built-in GUI (relies on CLI/API for management)
⊖ Needs integration with other tools for full RTC stack (e.g., media servers)