What is a cloud-based phone system?
Traditionally, the network and routing elements of an office telephone system would be based somewhere on a business’ premises, usually on a private branch exchange (PBX) server. With cloud telephone systems, however, this is all hosted off-site, on a secure, internet-based server at a data centre. Cloud telephone systems are also known as internet calling or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
From an employees’ perspective, not much may change. Businesses can continue using their previous phone handsets, should they wish, with calls placed and received in the same way. It’s the underlying system that changes, offering a whole host of benefits to the firm using it.
The primary reason many businesses choose a cloud telephones system is financial. With calls going through the internet, the only charge is for internet use. Not only is this cheaper for local calls, but the cost of international calls can be cut by up to 90%.
The benefits of having cloud telephony services for your business
Aside from the huge cost savings, there are various other benefits that make cloud phone systems worth considering.
There’s also the option to implement geographic redundancy. Since cloud phone systems are based in multiple locations, if one server goes down, there’s another server to act as a back-up.
Call recording, call reporting, multiple voicemail inboxes and remote service through mobiles: these are just some of the features available with cloud telephony.
In addition, the initial set-up is quick and less maintenance is required. And if a business grows and needs to scale up, it’s also easy to add extra phone lines and extensions.
How does a cloud telephony system work?
Routed through a cloud-based PBX, calls over cloud systems are broken down into small digital packets, which are transmitted over the internet. All data is stored in the cloud, saving on maintenance and updates, and an internet connection is all that’s required to use these systems.
In terms of phone equipment, there are various options, including:
- A traditional phone and an adapter for VoIP calls
- Software (such as Microsoft Teams) for voice calls on a computer
- Apps (such as Skype or Apple FaceTime) for smartphones
- A special VoIP phone, connected directly to a computer network
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