In this article, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing a hosted IP-PBX solution and choosing for a self hosted IP-PBX solution?

If you have an own Ip-PBX solution, this means it is running on a server in your office. This gives you great control over the IP-PBX solution you choose.

Having a hosted IP-PBX solution means that it is running on a server at your ITSP. The Internet Telephony Service Provider (ITSP) can be compared to an ISP, with the difference that they offer VoIP solutions.

Your choice depends on your wishes of features, costs, security and flexibility.

If you don’t want to do the maintenance, it’s best to avoid the hassle by choosing a hosted pbx. If you choose hosted, they will do the service for you. You won’t be needing pbx technicians in your company. Please note that your current network administrator is not automatically suited for running your ip-pbx system. A printing problem is not nearly as severe as a phone problem, so you will need someone competent.

If you currently do not have the infrastructure for 3rd line support systems, it might not be worth it to start it inside. You will be better off by outsourcing it and choosing for hosted pbx.

From a security standpoint, having your own pbx offers advantages. All the files stay on your server and don’t go outside. With today’s ever lowering prices on storage hardware, this means you will have an almost unlimited amount of supply room for all sorts of data you need saved.

If you go the hosted IP PBX route, you will be confronted with some extra fees for adding extra users to the system, installing voicemails etc. Naturally, if you have your own IP-PBX systems you have full control over this aspect. This might save you some money, provided you have the people to program your own IP-PBX solution.