v3.5.0.2
Document and Entity Information - shares
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2016
Jul. 22, 2016
Document And Entity Information    
Entity Registrant Name SONUS NETWORKS INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0001105472  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Jun. 30, 2016  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   49,392,197
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No  
Entity Voluntary Filers No  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes