Traditional IP PBX configurations

Modern IP phone systems are implemented in software practically without exception. When talking about modern IP phone systems, most manufacturers speak of PBX (Private Branch Exchange) or IP PBX. Since IP phones, SIP trunks and other services are registered at the PBX through the local network (LAN) or the Internet, the location of the PBX is initially irrelevant. An IP PBX running on a server in a data center, is called cloud or hosted PBX. Alternatively, an IP PBX can be operated locally within the company as a so-called in-house PBX.

A standard or traditional IP PBX contains at least a single network interface that connects to a data network using VoIP protocols. It may also contain additional network interfaces or other telephony interfaces that enable it to connect to an existing telephony network such as the PSTN. The connection to the data network allows for communication with other VoIP hosts located on the data network by using IP data packets. These VoIP hosts include other IP PBXs, VoIP-based telephones, VoIP gateways, and Client Access and Mailbox servers that are running UM services. A traditional IP PBX doesn't support analog or digital telephones. It supports only VoIP telephones.

Because the IP PBX can already connect to a data network and can convert the circuit-based protocols from the PSTN to packet-switched VoIP protocols, a VoIP gateway may not be required to enable communication with Client Access and Mailbox servers on the data network.

When considering an IP PBX phone solution, there are two types of systems; premise-based and cloud Hosted IP PBX.

Thanks to advances in technology, IP PBX phone system have become the industry standard for businesses of every size, offering incredible versatility and functionality to suit just about every conceivable business need from telecommuting to call center applications.

A premise-based, or IP PBX phone system houses the hardware appliance at your site in your server closet and although it operates much like traditional switched phone systems, the signaling is done with an IP (Internet protocol) phone to the IP PBX server using a LAN.

Conversely, a Hosted PBX uses the Internet to connect you to a provider who operates and maintains equipment through an offsite cloud based data center. Understanding both will help you make the choice that best suits your business needs and IT capabilities insuring the best possible return on your investment.