PBX, PABX AND VOIP PHONE SYSTEMS

There are 4 types of office phones,

1. PBX

2. PABX

3. VOIP/Flying Voice

4. GSM/fixed cellular. (Uses Sim Card and Normal Services Charges)

 

PBX (Private Branch Exchange), PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange), and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phones are all systems used for communication within organizations, but they differ in terms of technology and functionality. Here’s a breakdown:

1. PBX (Private Branch Exchange)

  • Definition: A private telephone network used within a company or organization.
  • Technology: Traditional PBX systems use analog or digital phone lines to connect internal users and provide access to external lines.
  • Features:
    • Call routing and switching
    • Extensions for employees
    • Call forwarding, voicemail, and conferencing
  • Advantages: Reliable and secure for on-premises communication.
  • Limitations: Expensive to install and maintain due to reliance on physical hardware.

2. PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange)

  • Definition: An advanced version of PBX with automatic switching and routing of calls without operator intervention.
  • Technology: Similar to PBX but fully automated.
  • Features:
    • Automation of call routing
    • Integration with voicemail and interactive voice response (IVR) systems
    • Support for more complex communication needs.
  • Advantages: Reduces the need for manual operation, improving efficiency.
  • Limitations: Still relies on traditional telephony infrastructure, making it costlier and less flexible than modern alternatives.

3. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Phones

  • Definition: A communication system that uses the internet to transmit voice and multimedia calls.
  • Technology: Digital communication via IP networks, bypassing traditional phone lines.
  • Features:
    • Voice and video calls
    • Instant messaging
    • Advanced integrations (e.g., CRM, team collaboration tools)
    • Scalability and remote access.
  • Advantages:
    • Lower costs compared to PBX and PABX.
    • Flexible and scalable for remote and hybrid work environments.
    • Requires minimal hardware (softphones or IP phones).
  • Limitations: Dependent on stable internet connectivity and may have security risks if not properly managed.

Comparison Table:

FeaturePBXPABXVoIP Phones
TechnologyAnalog/DigitalAutomated AnalogInternet-based
CostHighHighLow
ScalabilityLimitedLimitedHighly scalable
Installation/MaintenanceComplexComplexEasy (cloud-based)
MobilityLowLowHigh (remote work)
IntegrationLimitedModerateExtensive

Choosing the Right System:

  • PBX: Suitable for businesses with stable infrastructure and a preference for traditional telephony.
  • PABX: Ideal for medium to large organizations needing automated call management.
  • VoIP: Best for modern businesses prioritizing cost efficiency, scalability, and remote communication.

 

How it Works

We put our customers first, with a dedication to exceptional service and quality results. These traits set us apart from our competitors.

PBX Features

We deliver enterprise-grade communications features along with advanced UC capabilities, bringing a solid, reliable and affordable hosted business voice solution.

Extensions

Extensions on the Hosted PBX have multiple DIDs and ANIs for inbound and outbound call identification. Each extension has a name, a company position and passwords for web and SIP access.  Extensions can have their own ringtone, permissions for various actions, address book and music on hold source.

Redirection

The PBX handles basic redirection features like do not disturb (DND) and call forward on busy, on timeout, when there is no registration or of all calls. When calling a specific PBX, other extensions can also be included in the call like in a hunt group for every extension.  Users can log in at other extensions, hot desking feature

Cellphones

Every extension can have cell phones associated with it. When someone calls the extension, the PBX will immediately or after some time redirect the call to the cellphone. This feature can be limited to specific times during the day. Cell phones can also be used to place outbound calls and charged to the PBX.

 

Call Transfer

The PBX supports various attended and unattended transfers that are triggered by the user’s VoIP phones. In addition to that, calls can be parked on park orbits. In order to avoid caller starvation, the PBX can automatically reassign parked calls or transfer them out of the orbit. Special modes are available to transfer calls to cellphone

Mailbox

The Hosted PBX can play various announcements, including the name of the extension or a choice of personal greetings. When there is a new message, the PBX notifies the user via the message waiting indication of the VoIP phone, by email or by SMS. If a message is not retrieved within a certain time, the PBX can call the user up and deliver the message.  Messages can be shared with other mailboxes.

Auto Attendant

The auto attendant helps to direct incoming callers to the right account on the PBX. It functions like a virtual receptionist, connecting incoming calls to extensions. The auto attendant often announces a company’s name, followed by a selection of dialing options. Callers can search for users by their extension. Together with service flags, the routing can be programmed depending on time of day.

Conferencing

Conferences can be ad-hoc where participants just dial into a conference room, possibly protected by a PIN code. They can also be scheduled, where each participants receives an invitation that can be added to the calendar. The PBX can also call up the participants. In call-to-conference mode, the PBX calls a list of participants up whenever someone enters the conference room. Call can be recorded for later review.

 

Hunt Groups

For low call volume groups, hunt groups provide an easy way to distribute calls in a group. Incoming calls are handled in parallel to other incoming calls. The PBX supports three call stages that escalate calls to different group of participants. Ring melodies and music on hold can be assigned specifically for the hunt group. Hunt groups can also include regular phone numbers and cell phones in the stages.

Unified Communication Apps

With our Softphone, all the features of a desk phone can be realized by your mobile device and desktop. Available using Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, enabling you to makes real-time communication easy across multiple devices.

  • Make and receive calls from mobile phones and desktops with the same business phone number.
  • Initiate a chat or group chat with file sharing to stay responsive even when on a call.
  • Check the availability of colleagues to determine the most efficient way to reach them.
  • Have the corporate directory in the palm of the hands.
  • Take the office extension on the go and stay connected regardless of geography.
  • Seamlessly forward calls to extensions, mobile numbers, voicemail or any other designated destination.
  • View call pop-up, and call journal from Salesforce CRM, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Outlook, and Google contacts.
  • Check missed calls, call history, voicemails, and one-touch recordings from different devices.

PBX Integrations

PBX SYSTEMS

The Private Branch Exchange (PBX) system offers several advantages, especially for businesses and organizations that need an internal communication network. Here are its key benefits:

1. Cost Savings

  • Reduces costs by enabling internal communication without using external phone lines.
  • Organizations only pay for external calls made through limited shared lines rather than having separate lines for each user.

2. Centralized Communication

  • All incoming and outgoing calls are managed through a centralized system, improving organization and efficiency.
  • Provides a single point of control for managing phone lines, extensions, and features.

3. Call Routing and Management

  • Advanced call-routing features allow efficient handling of calls.
  • Includes options like call forwarding, call waiting, call transfer, and voicemail to enhance workflow.

4. Scalability

  • Supports a growing number of extensions for employees or departments, allowing businesses to expand without needing a completely new system.

5. Enhanced Privacy

  • Keeps internal communications private by routing calls within the organization through the PBX system.

6. Reliable Connectivity

  • Traditional PBX systems are less dependent on internet connections, making them more reliable in areas with poor internet infrastructure.

7. Customization

  • Configurable to suit an organization’s specific needs, including custom call menus, time-based call routing, and integration with security or paging systems.

8. Integration with Traditional Telephony

  • Works seamlessly with analog phone lines, making it an excellent choice for businesses not ready to transition to fully digital systems.

9. Reduced Dependence on External Providers

  • By managing calls internally, the organization gains more control and becomes less reliant on external telecommunication providers.

10. Security

  • Unlike VoIP systems that are exposed to internet-based threats, traditional PBX systems are more secure against hacking or cyberattacks, as they don’t depend on internet connections.

Use Cases

PBX systems are particularly advantageous for:

  • Businesses with high call volumes between employees or departments.
  • Organizations operating in areas with unreliable or costly internet connectivity.
  • Companies needing secure and robust communication infrastructure.

PABX SYSTEMS

A Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) system is an upgraded version of PBX that automates call routing and management. It offers several benefits for businesses, particularly those with complex communication needs. Here are the main advantages:

1. Automation of Call Management

  • Automatically routes incoming, outgoing, and internal calls without the need for a manual operator.
  • Saves time and reduces the need for human intervention in managing calls.

2. Cost-Effective Communication

  • Reduces communication costs by enabling multiple internal extensions while using a limited number of external lines.
  • Supports efficient call handling for businesses with high volumes of internal communication.

3. Scalability

  • Easily expandable to accommodate growing businesses by adding more extensions without overhauling the system.
  • Ideal for organizations that anticipate future growth.

4. Advanced Features

  • Includes features like:
    • Call forwarding
    • Voicemail
    • Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
    • Call conferencing
    • Call queue management
  • Enhances the overall communication experience and supports a variety of use cases.

5. Centralized Control

  • Provides a centralized system for managing all calls, reducing complexity and ensuring better organization.
  • Administrators can monitor and manage all extensions, call routing, and usage statistics.

6. Improved Efficiency

  • Streamlines communication processes by ensuring calls are routed to the correct person or department automatically.
  • Minimizes missed calls and optimizes resource utilization.

7. Integration with Analog and Digital Lines

  • Supports integration with both traditional phone lines and modern digital communication systems.
  • Provides flexibility for businesses transitioning to newer technologies.

8. Reliability

  • Operates independently of internet connectivity, ensuring consistent communication even in areas with poor internet infrastructure.

9. Customization

  • Tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses, such as custom IVR menus, time-based call routing, or department-specific features.

10. Privacy and Security

  • Internal calls stay within the system, offering enhanced security for confidential communication.

11. Multi-location Support

  • Enables seamless communication between different branches or offices within an organization.

Ideal Use Cases

PABX systems are particularly beneficial for:

  • Medium to large businesses with high call volumes.
  • Organizations needing robust call-routing and automation features.
  • Companies transitioning from traditional PBX to modern communication systems.

VOiP (Flying Voice)

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology has become a popular communication system for businesses and individuals due to its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and advanced features. Here are the key advantages of VoIP:

1. Cost Savings

  • Lower Call Costs: VoIP significantly reduces the cost of local, long-distance, and international calls since it uses the internet instead of traditional phone lines.
  • No Expensive Hardware: Minimal upfront investment, as VoIP can work with existing devices (smartphones, laptops) and doesn’t require extensive infrastructure.
  • Scalability: Pay only for what you need; adding or removing users is cost-effective.

2. Flexibility and Mobility

  • Work Anywhere: VoIP allows calls to be made or received from anywhere with an internet connection, supporting remote work and mobility.
  • Device Compatibility: Works with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and IP phones.
  • Softphones: Software-based phones eliminate the need for physical devices, making it easy to manage calls while traveling.

3. Advanced Features

  • Includes modern communication tools such as:
    • Video and audio conferencing
    • Instant messaging
    • File sharing
    • Voicemail-to-email transcription
    • Call forwarding and call recording
  • These features enhance productivity and collaboration.

4. Scalability

  • Easily scalable to accommodate growing businesses without needing extensive hardware or infrastructure upgrades.
  • Adding new users or phone numbers is quick and seamless.

5. Easy Integration

  • Can integrate with other business tools like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, email, and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack).
  • Simplifies workflows and improves efficiency.

6. Reliability and Call Quality

  • Modern VoIP systems use advanced compression and packet-switching technologies to provide high-quality voice and video calls.
  • Options for backup internet connections ensure uninterrupted communication.

7. Global Reach

  • VoIP allows businesses to maintain local phone numbers in different countries, enabling them to establish a presence in multiple regions without needing physical offices.

8. Easy Maintenance

  • Cloud-based VoIP services eliminate the need for on-premises equipment, reducing maintenance costs and responsibilities.
  • Service providers handle updates, security, and support.

9. Customization

  • Tailored plans and features based on specific business needs, such as auto-attendants, IVR menus, or custom call routing.

10. Environmental Sustainability

  • Reduces hardware waste since it relies on existing devices and cloud infrastructure.
  • Eliminates the need for traditional phone systems with heavy physical infrastructure.

11. Enhanced Security

  • Modern VoIP systems come with built-in encryption and security protocols to safeguard communication from cyber threats.

12. Disaster Recovery

  • Cloud-based VoIP systems ensure continuity even during power outages or natural disasters, as calls can be rerouted to mobile devices or other offices.

Ideal Use Cases

  • Businesses with remote or hybrid workforces.
  • Organizations with global operations or frequent international communication.
  • Startups and growing companies looking for cost-effective and scalable communication systems.