If you’re thinking of going with a hosted IP phone system like Packet8 – now 8X8 – and others, here’s the upside & the downside:
First a quick overview of what Hosted IP is. Hosted IP is one or more IP phone(s) and both the service and features including intercom, conference, hold, voicemail etc are also provided by the carrier. There is no physical control unit as is the case with full IP phone systems.
The Good:
- – It’s simple in concept. Sign up for the service, buy and get the phones programmed, then plug them in anywhere there is hardwired internet
- – For home based and small businesses of 1 or 2 employees overall its quite affordable
- – If office power or internet goes out the phones will work at just about any other location where there is internet.
The bad:
- – If you’re unhappy with the service you’re stuck! Changing carriers can be a nightmare!
- – Phones may not and in many cases won’t be compatible with another carrier or a full IP phone system.
- – Phones will not work as a back-up with regular phone lines if internet goes down.
Most IP phone systems will work with standard dial tone; hosted IP phones – cannot! - – Overall for 3 phones or more it doesn’t make financial sense.
Have questions about the above? Feel free to email us at info@jhbtele.com or call us at 813-276-1666