PBX software ranges from switch signaling to user interfacing for system control. PBX Software also depends on how much hardware is already in place at the site. A hosted PBX, for example, will be all software or all web-based software; an on-premises PBX can have a varied mix of hardware and software.
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There are countless programs to run or assist a PBX server. The factors that determine what kind of PBX software a business might need are:
- PBX system type
- operating system
- hardware present
- VoIP service compatibility
Types of PBX Systems
- Off-Premise
- Virtual PBX providers
- Hosted PBX
PBX systems hosted by the VoIP provider often have proprietary software in addition to VoIP service. In general, less server software is required. Other functions, such as CRM integration and IVR, still require software.
On-Premise
On-premises PBX systems need server management of varying degree based on the PBX hardware. For example, a PBX system without certain physical components can use Asterisk or similar telecommunication server technology to replace hardware functions.
3CX is an entirely software-based PBX system which can be installed on-premise on Windows or Linux, on mini-PC or virtualized with VMware, Hyper v or KVM, or in the cloud with Google, Amazon, Azure and more. The software is open-standards and can therefore be used with a wide range of IP phones, gateways and SIP trunks. Additionally, 3CX includes a full suite of unified communications features including status, chat, video conferencing and apps for iOS, Android and the Web.
Components
PBX software is often all-encompassing and widely customizable. There are also programs designed for specific purposes within a PBX system. See VOIP Software for individual types.
Proprietary vs Open Source
Proprietary systems are owned by one company, and usually (though not always) cost money. Open source software, on the other hand, is free to download, modify, and develop.
Large telecommunication companies like Cisco Systems dominate the market for network and servers. A popular open source alternative is Asterisk, though it too is held by a single company (Digium, Inc).
Examples of PBX Software
Some of the major players in the industry for PBX software include:
3CX
3CX is an affordable yet feature-rich PBX system that is available for free for the 1st year and remains free forever for small businesses of up to 10 users. Features include video conferencing, live chat, Facebook business integration, Microsoft Teams integration, smartphone apps for iOS and Android, and much more. 3CX is available on premise on Linux, Windows or Raspberry Pi. It’s also available as a cloud solution hosted by 3CX or in a personal cloud account. Easy to set up and manage.
Asterisk
Asterisk an open source framework for building a comprehensive PBX system on Linux, BSD and OS X. Asterisk doesn’t need additional VoIP hardware besides a special driver that can act as a non-portable timing mechanism.
Avaya
Avaya’s business communication system helps streamline business communication by combining voice, video, data, messaging, and mobility in one package. Businesses can gain most out of their service by combining the offer with Avaya’s proprietary IP phones.
8×8®
8×8® is one of the leading UC vendors in the market. They offer a solid phone system, video conferencing, chat, contact center features, as well as API solutions in one communications platform. 8×8® equips businesses with unique insights to drive productivity improvements thanks to the available monitoring and reporting features.
Nextiva
Nextiva aims to bring people closer by bringing their communication together. Nextiva offers a solution that combines phone system, contact center, video meetings, collaboration and mobile apps features. Thanks to Nextiva, businesses can streamline all communication in one place to achieve higher efficiency and customer satisfaction. While the software is deemed a good fit for SMBs, it can be easily scaled for larger enterprises too.
March 2, 2023
Phone System 