HOW TO BUILD A BASIC IP PBX NETWORK

Building a basic IP PBX (Private Branch Exchange) network involves setting up the essential components for users to make and receive VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls.

Building a simple IP PBX network is straightforward. While advanced IP PBX networks involve numerous VoIP components, a basic setup includes key components for users to send and receive VoIP calls.

An IP network, preferably the existing LAN, is essential for the interconnection of IP PBX network components. These components communicate over the IP network, serving as the medium for sending and receiving call requests between each other within the IP PBX system.

No need to create a new LAN; IP PBX network components can utilize the existing LAN for connectivity. Components seamlessly interconnect over the pre-existing LAN, streamlining communication within the IP PBX network.

THE FUNDAMENTAL COMPONENTS OF A BASIC IP PBX NETWORK

An IP PBX network forms the backbone of modern VoIP communication, enabling efficient and cost-effective voice communication over IP networks. The essential components of a basic IP PBX network include:

Software PBX Server

The Software PBX server is a critical component of the IP PBX network, functioning as software running as a service on a computer/server connected to the same LAN (Local Area Network). Serving as the IP PBX server, it facilitates communication with clients (softphone, hardphone, and webphone) by sharing information and managing the sending and receiving of call requests.

Another highly versatile approach for developers and software development companies is the use of SIP SERVER SDK, a SIP server software development kit. This SDK offers tools and components that simplify the design and development of Software PBX services, eliminating the need for in-depth understanding of complex VoIP and media communication protocols.

Softphones

A Softphone functions as a client, running as software on a user's computer within a single IP Network. Multiple Softphones can coexist on this network. Each Softphone connects and registers with the PBX Server using a unique extension number. Once registered, Softphone users can initiate and receive phone calls, engaging in voice communication using a headphone and microphone.

A Softphone serves as a highly cost-effective solution in call centre environments, where agents rely on this software-based communication tool to manage helpline calls. By using Softphones, call centres can minimize hardware costs associated with traditional desk phones, as agents can leverage their existing computers and headsets for voice communication.

This approach not only reduces initial setup expenses but also provides flexibility and scalability, allowing call centres to easily adapt to changing operational needs. Additionally, Softphones often offer advanced features and integration capabilities, enhancing overall efficiency in handling customer inquiries and support.

Softphones are accessible in both free and paid versions on the internet. Companies often choose to purchase paid softphones to secure immediate technical support and assistance with configuration, ensuring a smoother and more reliable integration into their communication systems.

Softphone and Webphone Software Development Kits (SDKs) are also available online, providing the tools to develop a Softphone with a customized graphical user interface (GUI). This approach offers great flexibility in designing a Softphone tailored to specific requirements. It's a versatile method allowing developers to create a Softphone with a simple and limited UI, meeting the unique needs of the application.

IP Phones

IP Phones, also known as hardphones, serve as clients by directly connecting to the IP Network, operating as standalone hardware devices. IP Phones are physical hardware with built-in VoIP capabilities.

IP-Telephony Service Provider

The Telephony Service Provider plays a crucial role when configuring the IP PBX to enable users, whether utilizing a softphone or hardphone, to dial and receive phone calls with external mobile and PSTN phone numbers. Numerous IP Telephony service providers are available on the internet to facilitate these external connections.