NetPBX

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A NetPBX is an internet-based variant of a telephone system ( PBX = Private Branch Exchange). In contrast to the IP-Centrex , which usually includes all telephone services, the user of such an online telephone system can freely choose the connected telephone companies.

principle

Essential service features (for example free calls between the connected subscribers, call forwarding, toggling, etc.) of a conventional telephone system are handled on a server rented in a data center, for example . Conventional system technology is no longer required in households or offices. This variant of a telephone system is possible in combination with internet-based telephony ( Voice-over-IP ). A SIP telephone or conventional telephone in connection with a special adapter for the SIP protocol is logically connected to the NetPBX via the Internet. The switching functions take place on the server with the help of special software. For this, there are numerous commercial vendors, but is widely used originally by Mark Spencer developed open source - software Asterisk . In addition to the usual dialing functions, this software , which is licensed under the GPL , can also be used to implement answering machines, telephone conferences and complex voice menu controls .

advantages

  • Users can call each other free of charge.
  • Lower costs for hardware, software and electricity for users.
  • Service features are made available transparently and unnoticed.
  • Complex call handling (for example, as in a call center ) can also be mapped economically for a few users.
  • The connected subscribers can be anywhere in the world, their phones only need to be connected to the NetPBX server via a reliable Internet connection.

disadvantage

  • A (reliable) server in a data center has to be rented.
  • If the NetPBX server or its Internet connection is not available, the entire local telephone system is paralyzed without redundancy. ( Single point of failure )
  • A terminal adapter is required to connect end devices with an analog interface ( e.g. fax machine ) .

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