VoIP Telephony

VoIP Telephony: The Future of Business Communication

An IP PBX is an Internet-based phone system that offers cost-effective, high-quality communication compared to traditional analog lines. It supports advanced features such as mobility, call routing, and conferencing.

Benefits of an IP PBX

Cost savings & reduced IT infrastructure

An IP PBX eliminates the need for dedicated phone lines by integrating voice and data networks into a single system. By transmitting calls over the Internet, it significantly reduces costs for both local and international communication.

Flexible deployment options

IP PBXs can be deployed either on-premise or in the cloud, offering businesses the flexibility to choose the communication solution that best suits their needs.

Advanced features

IP PBXs are software-based phone systems, allowing for seamless integration with other systems and enhanced capabilities such as chat, fax, and CRM platform integration.

Easy maintenance

Making even simple moves, adds, or changes (MACs) to traditional telephony systems can be challenging and often necessitates a technician. In contrast, IP-based phone systems can be easily updated by in-house staff within minutes.

Understanding On-Premise vs. Hosted/Virtual IP PBXs

On-Premise IP PBXs

An on-premise IP PBX is a phone system where the hardware and components are housed on-site at your location. This traditional setup is what many envision when thinking of a PBX. Here are some key benefits of an on-premise IP PBX:

No risk of fee increases
Lower total cost of ownership, especially as the system expands
Complete control and flexibility to switch solutions or mix-and-match components
Full autonomy over your equipment, allowing customization to meet specific needs
In-depth knowledge of your system’s capabilities, since you manage its deployment

Pros & cons of On-Premise IP PBX

More control since the system is maintained by your business

Server ownership reduces expenses over time creating a lower total cost of ownership

Failover capabilities through SIP trunking

Software upgrades and patches require on-site IT administrator

Higher setup costs and capital investment.

Hosted IP PBX & Virtual IP PBX

A hosted IP PBX is a phone system where the hardware resides off-site, often referred to as being “hosted” remotely. Commonly known as “cloud” phone systems, the components of a hosted IP PBX are stored in the Cloud, essentially on a server located elsewhere and accessed via the Internet.

A virtual PBX is often considered synonymous with a hosted PBX and represents a virtualized rendition of a phone system. In essence, the majority of the phone system’s hardware is situated in a data center or “cloud” facility.

Pros & cons of Hosted PBX

Lower setup cost

Software patches and upgrades are handled by the provider

Selecting features and adding users easily performed via an online web interface

Connection and voice quality depend on the Internet connection between the on-site phones and the service provider data center

Loss of on-site Internet means loss of phone service (although phone calls can be routed to voicemail, cell phones, or alternative locations)

Phones options to use with an IP PBX

IP Phones

IP desk phones are similar to regular phones but function as small computers for handling voice data. They have more features and buttons compared to traditional phones and connect to your office network to communicate with the IP PBX.

Desktop Softphone

A desktop softphone is a computer application or web interface that connects to your IP PBX through your office network. It works similarly to a traditional desk phone but operates on your computer. Softphones offer cost savings by using a headset, speakers, and/or microphone.

Mobile Softphone

A mobile softphone is an app designed for smartphones, tablets, or other mobile devices, offering all the telephony features of a desk phone. These softphones typically utilize the internet connection of the device, whether it's Wi-Fi or 4G, to connect with your IP PBX.