For those who are not familiar with it, Asterisk is a phone system that is implemented in software. Easy to customize, highly versatile, and simple to expand, Asterisk phone systems are more cost effective than the large business phone systems. It has the capability of powering thousands of extensions and can also help consumers save money at home on long distance calls.Most of us who have worked for medium or large businesses are familiar with Planetary Gearboxs Factory PBX, or Private Branch Exchange. The system offers voice mail, the ability to dial three or four digit extensions, and access to the public telephone network.
The PBX systems are extremely expensive and they are limited in their flexibility. Although other technologies can be added on, they are awkward to incorporate into the existing system.What is appealing about the Asterisk system besides cost, is that its approach is all software that offers more than PBX. While PBX switches analog lines, this system manipulates and sends VOIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, in software.
This system supports multiple extensions and offers voice mail and call routing. Each extension has a voice mail box that is connected to the email account of each employee. In addition the system offers more features that include an optional web based administration interface, and the ability to keep detailed call logs in a database.
This system is VOIP PBX fully merged that connects the phone network using broadband. It provides a cost effective solution for businesses large and small. Because the cost of setting up a conventional PBX system is eliminated with the use of this software, the smallest business office can afford to have PBX.
Calls are received and made the same way as they are with the conventional PBX system. However, connections are made through the internet rather than phone lines. The open source call center is very flexible and permits company employees to be located anywhere there is an internet connection. Specific extensions are used to direct calls to wherever the distance worker is. Many businesses use this type of system for staff that work from home.
Not only is the system less expensive, less office space is needed for staff so leasing costs can be reduced.Asterisk allows large businesses with offices in different areas to save the cost of conference calls by using the network to connect them. For employees that do a lot of traveling it is easy for them to stay in contact with the office through the internet.There are a number of VOIP consulting companies that offer support, service, training, and products to businesses of all sizes.
Likewise, Asterisk consulting services provide software support to businesses and assistance with VOIP, call center, and other Telephony demands.Asterisk phone systems are well established and offer businesses a multitude of features that are cost effective. In addition, an assortment of VOIP programs are supported by the software. This flexibility allows IP phones to be connected to the regular phone lines. The oldest of the VOIP PBX systems, many business owners prefer Asterisk.