Cloud PBX
What is a cloud PBX?
Cloud PBX (Cloud-based Private Branch Exchange) is a virtual PBX system rooted on the internet, which automatically answers all calls and routes them to the right department or user extension. Traditionally, PBX systems are housed on-premises. These machines are big and need their own storage room. They also require significant capital investment, making them out of reach for smaller businesses.
The cloud changed all that. Cloud PBX is hosted in secure, remote data centers and is delivered through the internet. It provides the same call routing and management features of an on-premises PBX without the need for expensive hardware. The cloud PBX solution is also offered as a service on flexible plans, so smaller businesses can subscribe to it instead of investing heavily on an expensive on-premises system.
On-premises PBX
Cloud PBX
- On-site hardware is paid up-front and can get really expensive
- More to be paid for complex implementations
- There are required contracts with early termination fees
- Additional fees for service and hardware upgrades
- Premium technical support? Even more additional fees
- Maintenance calls for expert IT technicians
- Expect a lengthy request process for service changes
- On-site hardware not necessary
- Pay nothing for a fast implementation
- No monthly contracts
- New features and upgrades are rolled out for free
- Customer support available 24/7
- System can be managed on your own using any smart device
- Add or repurpose lines as needed
Benefits of cloud PBX
Remote business phone calls
In addition to VoIP desk phones, users can connect to business telephone numbers from different locations via a webphone or mobile app. Outgoing and incoming calls, voicemail, call transfers, and more are all accessible remotely, meaning more flexibility and – often – better customer service.
No server maintenance
Especially for small businesses, it can be difficult to maintain on-premise servers. A cloud PBX solution means easier server management via web interfaces while a phone system hosted by the provider means no server management whatsoever.
Lower costs
Apart from the savings on maintenance, hosting providers often only charge according to usage.
COMMUNITY CLOUD
Most cloud phone systems use installation wizards meaning less server-side technical knowledge is required.
