We’ve already discussed the basics of IP telephony and the convenience of virtual PBXs. But what if you want maximum savings or complete control over your phone system? In that case, you should consider two more advanced options: direct use of SIP accounts or deploying your own IP PBX.

1. Direct SIP Telephony: Cheap and Cheerful This option assumes you obtain a SIP account (or several) directly from a communications operator (SIP provider) and independently configure the equipment or software for calls.

How it Works Registration with a SIP provider: You choose an operator that provides SIP telephony services (these can be the same companies that offer virtual PBXs, or specialized SIP operators). You register and receive connection details: SIP login, password, server address.

Equipment/Software Selection:

Softphones: Free or paid programs for a computer (e.g., Zoiper, MicroSIP, PhonerLite) or smartphone. You enter your SIP account details into them and can make calls. SIP Phones: Hardware phones that connect to the internet. They are configured via a web interface. VoIP Gateways: If you have old analog phones, they can be connected to an IP network via a special gateway. Configuration: You independently configure each phone or softphone to work with your SIP account.

Pros of Direct SIP Telephony Very low cost: This is typically the cheapest way to organize IP telephony. You only pay for outgoing calls at the operator’s rates and, possibly, a small monthly fee for the number. There are no monthly payments for a “virtual PBX.” Flexibility in equipment choice: You are not tied to the solutions of a single virtual PBX provider and can use any SIP-compatible devices or programs. Simplicity for single users or micro-businesses: If you just need one or two numbers without complex call handling logic, this can be an ideal solution. Cons of Direct SIP Telephony Limited functionality: Basic features such as voice greeting (IVR), call queue, call recording, complex call forwarding are usually absent or require additional settings and software. You essentially get just a “handset” over the internet. More complex setup: Requires certain technical knowledge to configure equipment and softphones. No centralized management: Each device or program is configured separately. No unified statistics: Collecting and analyzing call statistics is difficult. 2. Your Own (Local or Cloud) IP PBX: Full Control This option involves installing and configuring your own IP PBX server. The server can be physical (a computer or special device in your office) or virtual (on rented VPS/VDS hosting). Popular IP PBX software solutions include Asterisk, FreePBX, 3CX, MikoPBX.

How it Works Selection and Installation of PBX Software: You choose the PBX software and install it on your server. Connecting SIP Trunks: You connect SIP trunks (communication channels) from one or more operators to your PBX. PBX Configuration: This is the most complex stage. You configure all the telephony logic: internal numbers, call routing rules, voice menus, queues, call recording, etc. Connecting End Devices: Employees connect to your PBX using softphones or SIP phones. Pros of Your Own IP PBX Complete control: You fully control all aspects of your phone system. Maximum flexibility and customization: You can configure almost any, even the most complex, call handling logic, and integrate with any systems. Potential long-term savings: After initial costs for equipment (if the server is physical) and setup, ongoing expenses can be lower than using a virtual PBX, especially for large companies. Independence from virtual PBX provider: You are not tied to one PBX service provider. Security: You are responsible for the security of your system. Cons of Your Own IP PBX High complexity of setup and support: Requires deep technical knowledge or the involvement of qualified specialists. This is not for beginners. Initial costs: If you choose a physical server, investments in equipment will be required. Even for a cloud server, hosting fees are necessary. Responsibility for operability: All responsibility for the stable operation of the system rests with you. Time for implementation: Deploying and configuring your own PBX can take significant time. Who Are These Options For? Direct SIP telephony: Ideal for freelancers, individual entrepreneurs, or very small companies (1-3 people) who need a simple and maximally inexpensive way to make and receive calls on a city number without complex features. Your own IP PBX: For technically savvy users or companies with in-house IT specialists. For businesses that require non-standard features or deep integration of telephony with other systems. For companies striving for maximum independence and control over their communications. In some cases, for large companies with many lines and employees, this can be more economically advantageous in the long run. Conclusion The choice of IP telephony setup depends on your business size, technical capabilities, budget, and functional requirements.

Virtual PBX: Simple, fast, functional, but with a monthly fee. Excellent for most small and medium-sized businesses. Direct SIP telephony: Very cheap, but minimal features and more complex to set up. Suitable for micro-businesses or single users. Your own IP PBX: Maximum control and flexibility, but requires serious technical knowledge and initial investment/effort. For advanced users and specific tasks. Which of these options seems most appealing for your current needs?