Best PBX Providers
There are numerous telecoms brands in the PBX space, with some big names able to tackle your business’s telephone system needs. Below, we round up some of the main PBX providers you may come across:
| PBX Provider | Summary |
|---|---|
Mitel
|
Mitel specializes in host-based phone solutions, though they do also offer on-site services as well. Using their proprietary technology, they offer feature-rich but simple phones, and promise one low, per-user monthly charge with no hidden fees. While the hardware is hosted off site, you can take advantage of their intuitive web-based administration of your system from your computer. |
3CX
|
3CX offers a software-based solution for your IP PBX needs, and promises to reduce your telephone costs by up to 70%. Its software can be installed in and operated from Windows, eliminating the need for advanced telecom skills. Plus, it can be configured to work with popular IP phones and VoIP gateways, and easily integrated with your employees’ smart phones. |
XO Communications
|
XO Communications offers both managed and converged IP network services, with a focus on small and mid-sized operations. Their services include design, consultation, installation, and training. |
Which PBX provider is right for your business? The answer is never one-size-fits-all.
The most important thing is understand the costs for installing a PBX system for your business, not anyone else’s. That means comparing quotes for the scale of operation that you’re running, and the specific business phone setup that has the features you’ll actually use.
We have a handy Business Phone Quotes Comparison Tool you can use – simple fill in a few key details and we can serve you with quotes from various providers.
PBX Jargon Explained
When you’re choosing a PBX system, you’re likely to come across a few key terms. Below, we explain the main PBX technical phrases you’ll encounter:
Telephone trunks
A telephone trunk provides network access to many employees by sharing a certain number of lines, as opposed to providing them individually. It might help to think of it like a tree, which has one trunk and many branches.
When it comes to a PBX, the number of ‘trunk lines’ refers to the number of lines coming into the system from the telephone provider.
SIP Trunking is a form of trunking commonly used to upgrade traditional PBX systems to modern IP-PBXs, allowing multiple users to connect to both the analog Public Switched Telephone Network, and the internet, using VoIP.
Hardware / software
The technology used for PBX systems performs the duties of old-fashioned telephone operators.
Essentially, it takes an incoming call and routes or switches it to the correct destination. The size and storage of the hardware varies depending on which type of PBX system you choose, and in many cases the software can integrate with or replace that of your old phone system.
Network of lines
The network of lines refers to the number of lines in use for your enterprise. These can be phone lines for your office, VoIP lines for the internet, or even lines that connect incoming calls to your business with your mobile phone or off-site line.
