What is Hosted Telephony?

Hosted telephony in a simple description is an internet based telephone system, where the service is received via ADSL or Leased lines. It is referred to by the names hosted PBX (Private Branch Exchange) and hosted VoIP (Voice over IP).
 
With a hosted system the provider is responsible for housing the IP-PBX at a remote location and provides you with the technology for the phone system. This is different to the old traditional systems where the PBX is on site.

A Hosted PBX system has many advantages over a traditional premise-based PBX system. Amongst the advantages are lower costs, increases in efficiency and flexibility. 

Advantages of a Hosted PBX:

• Lower upfront investment- lower initial equipment cost and set-up cost. A hosted PBX system does not require a large up front investment as there is no PBX system to purchase.
• Upgrades can be managed by the customer, quickly and easily.
• It is easy to add on new features to your system such as conferencing which can link through your internet connectivity.
• There are no maintenance costs of the IP-PBX
• Low monthly service cost- all costs for maintenance, subscription and up keep are all covered under one low cost by the service provider.
• Flexible: It is easy to add extra lines for extra staff members as they join. Expandable from 1 to 1000 users. A hosted PBX system lets you upgrade, change features and expand services without the need of a technician, you just need to inform your service provider of your changing requirements so any adjustments to contracts can be made.
• A hosted system is great for flexible working, you can easily install IP Telephones at home without the need for a technician.
• A hosted PBX does not require traditional telephone wiring, it can be connected using existing CAT 5 cables from computer internet connections.
• Technical support can be provided from a distance, there is less need for a technician on site.

Disadvantages of An On Premise PBX:

• Higher initial cost and set-up cost for installation.
• Upgrades are slow and require the attention of an onsite technician.
• Maintenance needs to be done by IT staff or a technician on site which can prove costly. It is hard to budget for the costs as they are often unknown
• The addition of new lines for new starters can be costly, it is worth bearing in mind that with growth, systems become more complicated so it can be difficult to manage and implement yourself.
• When moving offices, with traditional PBX systems you would need the installation of additional hardware and circuits at the new location which can be costly.

 
If you’re interested in finding a telephony solution to match your businesses specific needs call our sales team on 0345 450 7444, they are happy to help.

Or alternatively, enter your details here to receive a quote for your business.