Let’s start with terminology:

IP telephony—phone communication via IP protocol.

A set of protocols, technologies, and methods enabling traditional telephony features (dialing, calls, voice/video communication) over the internet or other IP networks.

Signals are transmitted digitally, often compressed to reduce redundancy and network load.

In simple terms?

All telephony involves making/receiving calls. IP telephony does this via the internet, using virtual or physical numbers.

Real-world example

You own an online store. Multiple mobile numbers and chaotic calls overwhelm managers, making redirects unreliable—you risk losing customers to hold times.

Solution: virtual PBX and SIP gateways.

Private Branch Exchange (PBX)—a system automating phone connections between internal users (phones, faxes, etc.).

SIP gateway—converts traditional phone signals (TDM) into digital IP packets for IP networks.

Two options:

— Rent equipment

Easier: you pay, and the provider handles the rest.

— Own equipment

For full control, but requires a VoIP admin on hand. Remote PBX servers are more reliable and simpler.

Manager workflow

Managers make/receive calls via software. You get call analytics, recordings, hold music, CRM integration, and more.

Selling abroad?

Get a virtual local number. Customers call normally, unaware you’re answering from another continent. Outbound calls work too.

IP telephony benefits

• Cheaper calls
• Better signal quality
• Unlimited lines per number
• Integration capabilities
• Internet-powered features: website linking, customizable IVR, smart forwarding, free internal calls, number portability.