Decoding VoIP Terminology: What is the difference between an IP-PBX and a Multi-Tenant IP-PBX?
We’ve all heard about the cost saving benefits of VoIP but when it’s time to make the switch to VoIP, what solution is best for you? There are so many new terms and acronyms to learn when evaluating a VoIP system. Sure – phone lines and phone numbers are easy enough to understand, but now you have to know what a DID, ATA, and IP-PBX are before ordering your new VoIP system.
One of the questions I am asked most frequently is ‘what is the difference between an IP-PBX System and a Multi-Tenant IP-PBX System?’
To answer this, you first have to understand what an IP-PBX system is. Basically, this is a PBX (phone) system for businesses that routes calls through the internet instead of over phone lines. An IP-PBX System has special features that businesses require, such as extension definition, music on hold, call transfer, and auto-attendant.
If you are a small business that only needs a PBX phone system for internal use to make and receive phone calls, then you would need a simple IP-PBX solution for your office.
However, if you want to offer VoIP services to businesses, then you would need a Multi-Tenant (sometimes referred to as ‘hosted’) IP-PBX System. This type of solution will give you the ability to sell VoIP services to other businesses who need an IP-PBX.
With the IPsmarx Multi-Tenant IP-PBX, you would set up one system (one server) and then you would be able to offer services to many businesses without installing hardware at each of their locations. Each business would be able to define their own extensions and have their own unique auto-attendant.
Sometimes it makes sense for a small business to purchase a Multi-Tenant IP-PBX for internal use, especially if they have a few clients who may need VoIP service as well. By implementing a Mutli-Tenant solution for internal use and then selling VoIP service to a few other companies, the IP-PBX system may pay for itself in a few short months.
For more information about this or any of our VoIP solutions, contact me at cfedders@ipsmarx.com or call (703) 871-5274.
Carrie Fedders
Sales Manager, IPsmarx USA
Reston, VA
In her role as Account Manager, Mrs. Fedders has been with IPsmarx since 2006. She works directly with our clients to determine the best VoIP solution for their needs, whether they are a Wholesale Carrier, Calling Card Provider, Residential VoIP Service Provider, or an SMB Service Provider. She works with the whole IPsmarx team to make sure our clients are successful in implementing and effectively using our solutions to improve their offerings.
Time: 4:49 am
