Virtual PBX offers flexible and affordable solutions for the SOHO (Small Office / Home Office) environment, requiring minimal capital costs and limited IT support. As a network-based hosted IP PBX solution, the Virtual PBX system delivers all call processing, intelligence and voicemail functionality over the public Internet so you can use your existing Internet provider. If you are searching for the best Virtual PBX deals available, we have them for you!

Virtual PBX includes the following Bundled Services:

  • Directory Assistance (10)
  • Directory Listing (Primary)
  • Toll Restriction
  • Account Codes
  • Extended Area(Long Distance)
  • Conferencing Minutes (100)
  • Domestic Long Distance Minutes (1,000)
  • Toll-Free (2)
  • 30 Email Accounts
  • Web Hosted Professional Package
  • Domain Name Services

Every Virtual PBX customer has the option to choose either Basic or Enhanced Features. Simply select the best Virtual PBX package that meets the needs of your individual users.

Basic Feature Pack

  • 3-Way Calling
  • Caller ID Block
  • Caller ID / Name
  • Extension Dialing
  • Hunting / MLHG
  • Last Number Redial
  • Music on Hold
  • Sequential Ring (Find Me / Follow Me)
  • SIM Ring (Find Me / Follow Me)
  • Speed Dial 100
  • Speed Dial 8
  • Voicemail
  • Voicemail-to-Email

Enhanced Feature Pack

  • 3-Way Calling
  • Call Forward Always / Busy / No Answer
  • Call Forward Universal
  • Call Log
  • Call Return
  • Call Transfer Consultation
  • Call Transfer Disconnect
  • Call Waiting / Cancel
  • Caller ID Block
  • Caller ID / Name
  • Extension Dialing
  • Hunting / MLHG
  • Last Number Redial
  • Music on Hold
  • Sequential Ring (Find Me / Follow Me)
  • SIM Ring (Find Me / Follow Me)
  • Speed Dial 100
  • Speed Dial 8
  • Voicemail
  • Alternate Numbers
  • Anonymous Call Rejection
  • Automatic Call Back
  • Automatic Call Hold
  • Automatic Hold Retrieve
  • Busy  Lamp Field
  • Call Forwarding Select
  • Call Notify (Email)
  • Call Park / Pick Up
  • Custom Ring Back
  • Directed Call Pickup (w/Barge-In)
  • Diversion Inhibitor / Transfer Takeback
  • Do Not Disturb
  • MADN
  • Selective Call Acceptance
  • Selective Call Rejection
  • Shared Line Appearance
  • Voicemail-to-Email

Is Hosted PBX Right for Your Business?

The new gold standard for business telephone service is hosted PBX.  A communications system based entirely in the cloud, all you need is a consistent internet connection to get your phones up and running, eliminating added expenses for hardware and software. Since hosted PBX is housed and managed off-site, it requires no training for your employees, and there are no installation fees. Best of all, no additional infrastructure is required, meaning there is no further equipment to clutter up your office or for your staff to learn to maintain. 

Questions about hosted PBX?

What is Hosted PBX?

Hosted PBX goes by a number of different names including virtual PBX, cloud PBX, VoIP PBX, and more. In the most basic of terms, hosted PBX is the connection between your business phones and other internal communications to a VoIP service provider via the internet. Because this service is hosted, all of the required infrastructures are housed off-site and managed by the VoIP provider.

The name hosted PBX is an acronym representing Private Branch Exchange. This sophisticated system allows businesses to have full phone functionality without the need for an on-site server. A reliable internet connection is all that is needed for your business to enjoy all of the benefits of traditional phone service and more without any of the drawbacks or added costs. Among the services, you can enjoy with hosted PBX are:

  • Voicemail
  • Faxes
  • Automated greetings
  • Conference calls
  • Pages
  • Intercom calls
  • Extensions
  • Voice
  • Mobile integration
  • Business SMS
  • Screen sharing

Call Routing and Switching

All call routing or switching is handled by the hosted PBX provider who is also responsible for any maintenance or troubleshooting of the system. 

Unlike traditional landline-based telephone services, businesses do not need any phone lines or additional hardware to utilize this system. All communications are connected via a cloud-based server that can be housed at the facility of the PBX operator or virtually via the cloud. 

This innovative system permits businesses to facilitate communications internally by means of a consistent internet connection. Any internet-capable device can be added into the system. The phone connections occur through a LAN (local area network) or the internet. 

How Does Virtual PBX Work?

Hosted PBX Diagram

Image obtained from Nextiva

Virtual, or hosted, PBX is the basis for all VoIP telephone systems. In order for virtual PBX to operate correctly, you require three central items: a PBX server, VoIP telephones, and if need, a VoIP Gateway. The PBX server housed off-site, connects registered users to a phone line from which they can place and receive calls and other communications. 

The PBX server contains a directory of each employee’s SIP address. It is through this number that internal and external calls are routed through either a VoIP phone service provider or a VoIP Gateway. 

Here is the basic process of communications with a hosted PBX:

The company network

Each business has a local network. It is through this system that computers are able to connect SIP users and internet-powered phones to the PBX server. 

The business router/firewall

The router or firewall attached to the business establishes the internet connection. Once established, this same connection can unite other remote extensions. Among the remote connections that can be accessed through this system are softphones, remote IP phones, mobile phones and tablets equipped with 3CX Android and iOS applications, and other PBX’s utilizing bridges. The router can also be utilized to attach to a PSTN network if a VoIP phone provider is utilized instead of a VoIP gateway. 

VoIP gateway

VoIP gateways are a direct route from the hosted PBX to the PSTN network, allowing for outgoing and incoming calls on traditional analog phone lines. This service is ideal for businesses transitioning to VoIP in stages. 

What Kind of Companies Use Hosted PBX?

Hosted PBX is the ideal solution for mid-sized businesses with a need for as few as two or as many as 30 individual phone lines. This service is also an excellent choice for start-ups and even businesses looking to expand their current operations. Hosted PBX is convenient, simple to set up, and affordable. 

What are the Advantages of PBX?

There are many advantages to be gained for you with a switch to hosted PBX phone systems. Among the most popular reasons to consider this change are:

Greater security

Virtual PBX servers are heavily fortified with the latest cybersecurity protocols, providing you with an added layer of protection to keep your data safe. 

Guaranteed business continuity

With traditional phone service and even on-site PBX, your workflow comes to a halt when phone lines or your internet goes down. No matter what Mother Nature brings your way, your employees can stay on the job fielding and making calls with hosted PBX. A helpful mobile app keeps you connected to local cellular services to ensure your productivity remains on target regardless of what is going on in the world around you. 

Lowered upfront costs

Virtual PBX is an inexpensive telecommunications system for businesses. Since there is no hardware to purchase or maintain, there are only very minimal upfront and ongoing costs, providing substantial savings for company owners. 

Since all maintenance and upgrades are provided by the PBX operator, it is unnecessary to invest time and money into training your employees to fulfill these roles. Once implemented, the system is very user-friendly, allowing you to manage your day-to-day telecommunications needs from a simple online portal. This easy-to-use system allows your employees to customize their own phone features to best suit their own unique workflow needs. This allows your staff to utilize the most current and effective technology tools to help them reach peak efficiency. 

Fixed and predictable monthly costs

With only one hosted PBX operator responsible for all of your telecommunications needs, there is only one monthly bill to pay. VoIP PBX is affordable and predictable, providing you with a consistent monthly expense that fits easily within your budget. 

Scalable to meet your needs

With hosted PBX, you have the opportunity to grow your service to match your business growth. This easy scalability can be accomplished through a few clicks of a keyboard on a simple-to-use online portal. You can add or delete users at your will without the need for a help desk technician or a visit from an on-site specialist to help you scale your service. 

Professional and branded communications 

Whether you opt to purchase VoIP desk phones or to integrate a BYOD policy, your employees can utilize your business’ main phone number for work-based communications. This ensures the continuity of your business image, ensuring all phone calls, texts, voice mails, etc, stay connected to your brand. 

Promotes worldwide collaboration

With hosted PBX, it is easy for employees in the home office and in the field to remain connected and working collaboratively no matter where they may be in the world. Geography is no barrier with VoIP phone systems and virtual PBX. 

Easy integration of all mobile devices

Though a singular app, all mobile devices registered with the PBX server gain access to all of the pertinent business phone features including voice, text, fax, conference calls, online meetings, corporate directory access, and more. 

What are the Disadvantages of PBX?

Hosted PBX is now the universally accepted standard for businesses. However, there are dozens of companies offering PBX, and the company you choose will make all the difference as to whether or not this service is effective for you. Depending on which company you select, you may experience some of these problems:

Amount of broadband required

Any cloud-based offering requires the ability to connect consistently to the internet. It is important to ensure the broadband circuit you have is strong and of sufficient quality to support regular telephone service. It is recommended that you have at least T1, fiber, or ethernet broadband connectivity if possible. 

Limitations of your network 

Network limitations won’t keep hosted PBX from working for you, but they may mean the service will cost you more. Virtual PBX is based on IP, and thus, your network must be equipped with at least Category 5 cabling and the required switch for multiple telephones. A router may also be necessary if you desire your voice and data services to operate separately to maintain peak quality levels. Power of ethernet is also recommended to help with any phones that are not already equipped with this technology. The acquisition of this additional hardware may cost you a significant amount of money. In some cases, it is already bundled into the cost of the VoIP PBX package. 

Higher costs incurred for more users

Hosted PBX becomes more costly when businesses exceed the recommended maximum of 30 users. Since hosted PBX is charged per user, the service may be cost-prohibitive once this threshold is surpassed. 

Cost of Hosted PBX

Hosted PBX is a great service for mid-sized businesses, offering them predictable monthly costs, maintenance-free service, and ease of scalability. If it’s time to consider a new communications system for your business, it’s well worth giving hosted PBX a try. For more information on virtual PBX and the benefits for your company, contact the professionals at OneStop Communications at {phone} or {email}. We look forward to serving you! 

Virtual Office PBX

Virtual office PBX is a cloud-based telecom system that allows you to use your internet connection to manage your phone calls and other business communications. Before the introduction of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology, business phone calls were tied to the office by physical wires and hardware. Installation of a new PBX system required a heavy capital expenditure and the cost and manpower to maintain it. 

With virtual office PBX, there’s no need for physical hardware or traditional phone lines, nor do you need to hire someone to manage the system. The virtual office PBX provider manages features and functions, which saves you both time and money. 

A virtual PBX system comes with a number of features, such as call routing, call forwarding, IVR/auto-attendant, conferencing, voicemail-to-email, and more. These advanced features come at a fraction of the cost of traditional PBX. Plus, with virtual PBX, you aren’t tied to the office. Employees working from home or on the go can access all the features of the PBX system remotely, as long as they have an internet connection. 

Some of the advantages of virtual office PBX include:

  • Scalability: Adding lines with virtual PBX is easy, allowing you to scale up or down as your business changes. 
  • Flexibility: Virtual PBX is incredibly flexible. All you need is an internet connection and an internet capable device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop to start making phone calls.
  • Cost savings: With virtual PBX, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars upfront to install your PBX system. This makes the powerful features of PBX accessible to small-to-medium businesses and startups. Plus, without the need to manage your equipment, you save on maintenance costs.

Hosted PBX Packages

Most hosted PBX providers offer various packages that include a range of features and options. The exact features will depend on the service provider as well as the package you select. Typically, a hosted PBX provider will charge you a monthly fee per user for the package you select. Other providers may charge per minute of usage. Here are some common elements you might find in hosted PBX packages: 

  • Basic calling features: Most packages include essential calling features like call forwarding, call waiting, caller ID, and voicemail. 
  • Extensions: Different plans usually offer a varying number of extensions, which allow you to create separate phone lines for employees and departments. 
  • Interactive Voice Response: An IVR system provides a menu of options for callers to select. This helps them get to the appropriate department. 
  • Conferencing: Some hosted PBX packages include audio conference features, which allows multiple parties to participate in a call simultaneously. 
  • Integration: Many hosted PBX providers offer integration with third-party applications and software, such as CRM systems. Integration availability may depend on the package you opt for. 
  • Voicemail to email: This feature transcribes voicemail messages and sends them to a designated email address, making it convenient for employees to manage voicemail. 
  • Mobile apps: Some hosted PBX packages include mobile apps that enable employees to use the hosted PBX system on their smartphones or tablets. 
  • Technical support: When choosing a hosted PBX provider, consider the level of technical support offered. Responsive support is crucial when you encounter issues. 
  • Uptime: Some providers offer guaranteed uptime in their hosted PBX packages. Look for packages with a high level of uptime and reliability. 

When choosing a hosted PBX provider, you need to assess your specific needs, including the number of employees, call volume, and desired features. Comparing multiple providers and their packages will help you find the one that’s right for your company’s goals and budget.

Is Virtual PBX Worth It? 

If you’re wondering whether a virtual PBX is worth it for your business, you’ll need to look at a number of factors. Here are some things to consider when determining if a virtual PBX system is the right choice for you:

1. The size of your business: Virtual office PBX systems are suitable for businesses of various sizes, but they are particularly beneficial for small-to-medium-sized businesses. Larger businesses tend to have more complex communication needs that might require a more robust solution. 

2. Remote work: If your business has remote or distributed teams, a virtual PBX can be extremely valuable. Your employees can use the system from anywhere, keeping communication lines open regardless of physical location. 

3. Cost: Virtual PBX systems generally have lower upfront costs compared to traditional on-premises PBX systems. Consider your budget and the cost-effectiveness of a virtual solution versus the expenses associated with purchasing, installing, and maintaining hardware. 

4. Features: Another important factor to evaluate is the specific features offered by the virtual PBX provider. You’ll want to make sure the system provides you with the features your business needs. 

5. Professional image: If your business is small or just starting up, one particular benefit of a virtual PBX is a more professional image by providing auto attendants, call routing, and extensions for various departments. 

6. Maintenance: With virtual PBX, the service provider handles maintenance, updates, and technical support, which reduces the burden on your IT team. 

Whether a virtual PBX is right for you will depend on the unique needs of your business. In many cases, businesses find virtual PBX systems to be a cost-effective and efficient solution. If you need help weighing the pros and cons of a virtual PBX, OneStop Communication can help. 

If you have a question, just ask!

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