VoIP PBX

VoIP PBX or IP PBX (Internet Protocol Private Branch Exchange) is a telephony system that makes use of IP data networks to facilitate telecommunication. The immediate advantage of VoIP PBX is that enterprises using it need not have to replace their existing phones or phone numbers to accommodate the new VoIP facility. It is a robust technology that works in tandem with the existing communication infrastructures. In other words, the VoIP technology can use the existing PSTN lines via the VoIP gateway, and there is no much of additional infrastructure involved in its entire installation.

The basic architecture of an IP PBX system consists of an IP PBX server, one or more SIP phones or VoIP phones, and a VoIP gateway, as mentioned already, to connect to the existing PSTN lines (optional though). The IP PBX server functions quite similar to a proxy server. The SIP or VoIP phones, which can be either hardware phones or soft phones, has to register with the IP PBX server, and when they wish to make a call to another phone – a VoIP or SIP phone – actually a request is send to the IP PBX server to establish the connection. The IP PBX server will have a directory of all users/phones and their respective SIP addresses, and using this info, it could connect an internal call or route an external call via a VoIP service provider or a VoIP gateway, whichever is applicable. The process is just quick and simple.

If you run your own business, you know that a significant part of your overhead is tied into maintaining a state-of-the-art phone system commonly known as a Private Branch eXchange or PBX. These in-house exchanges are typically owned by the business and are used to connect all of the phones [extensions] within the business to each other as well as allow access to the outside world.

While a PBX system is cheaper than public telephone network systems that require each company phone to have its own line [and subsequent recurring monthly line charge], they can still be a significant cost burden for many businesses. Today, however, there is an alternative to the traditional PBX system in the form of VOIP PBX. Yes, VOIP which has been gaining strength in the consumer sector has found a place in many small businesses.

So, what are the benefits of VOIP for business? Many, to be sure including:

Start up costs for VOIP PBX systems can be as much as 90% lower than traditional PBX systems.

Monthly phone bill savings averaging 50% is common.

Interoffice calling charges are eliminated via business VOIP.

An Auto-Attendant feature allows for the replacement of a live bodied Receptionist. With Auto-Attendant, calls can be transferred automatically or through prompts; multiple greetings can be employed; and 24 hour availability means this service can be used around the clock and around the world. Companies get round the clock attention and save on at least one Receptionist’s salary.

An Audio Conferencing feature allows for meetings to be held with participants located at multiple sites; unlimited conference calls can be held concurrently; and password protection can ensure that only invited conference attendees participate.

Administrative Controls are implemented through a user-friendly web portal to manage the system and track calls in action.

Other significant features included are music-on-hold; call i.d. with name; call waiting; call transfer; three way calling; voicemail notification via email; ring groups; online real time monthly billing statement; and more.

Beyond all of that, VOIP PBX offers more flexibility than the standard PBX, lowering overhead costs significantly and giving small and medium businesses options that would have cost them much more through a traditional PBX arrangement.