PBX Integration with Windows

By Kristine Hegglin
Updated: April 01, 2011

Some private branch exchange (PBX) phone systems have the capability to integrate with Microsoft Windows. The 3CX Phone System is one such PBX phone system that is software-based. This software based solution uses internet protocol (IP) PBX for Microsoft Windows and offers businesses an alternative to the regular PBX phone systems. 3CX PBX phone systems support session initiated protocol (SIP) phones. Other proprietary provider solutions that offer PBX phone systems integrated with Microsoft Windows include:

  • miniSipServer
  • Brekeke PBX
  • SIPSP-PBX
  • PBXnSIP
  • Axon
  • Communigate
  • Microsoft communications server
  • Cisco Call Manager
  • ShoreTel
  • Altigen

These providers offer solutions that differ in price and capabilities (i.e. number of supported users, lines, features, limitations). Businesses that don’t have the capitol to invest in a PBX phone system integrated with Microsoft Windows may opt for an open source solution. Open source solutions are free and the code is available to the public for download from the vendor’s website. Some open source provider solutions are:

  • Freeswitch
  • Yate
  • AsteriskWin32

Some vendors that offer proprietary solutions offer their products for free for a specific number of users. Other vendors offer free editions of their proprietary solutions.

Advantages of a PBX Phone System Integrated with Microsoft Windows

PBX phone systems that are integrated with Windows come with several advantages. These types of phone systems eliminate the need for hard wiring telephones, which saves businesses money when office moves or relocations are required. Using this type of telephony solution, businesses have the option to make calls using a voice over IP (VOIP) service or the public switched telephone network (PSTN). Making calls with VOIP will save businesses on long distance and inter-office calling fees associated with PSTN service. PBX phone systems that are integrated with Windows are scalable and provide businesses with a complete phone system including call routing, queuing and switching.

Potential Difficulties Associated with a PBX Phone System Integrated with Microsoft Windows

Businesses may run into difficulties when setting up and integrating a PBX phone system with Microsoft Windows. Most providers offer support services. If businesses run into setup and integration issues, it may be best to consult a third party vendor, the service provider, or online support services. Businesses may configure their PBX phone systems any way they like.
 

Featured Research