A telephone exchange is a system that connects telephone calls by routing them through a network. When you make a call, your voice travels through wires to the exchange, which then directs the call to the recipient's phone. This process allows multiple calls to be managed simultaneously, ensuring efficient communication. Telephone exchanges can be either manual or automated. In manual exchanges, operators physically connect calls using cables and switches. In contrast, automated exchanges use electronic systems to handle calls without human intervention. Both types play a crucial role in the functioning of the telephone network, enabling people to communicate over long distances.