Consider Asterisk Phone Systems For Your Business Communications Needs

Saving money is a common goal of many businesses, and telecommunications in all its current facets can become a major expense. From call center operations to PBX telephony setups, Asterisk phone systems can help achieve the goal of economy and versatility. Under development since 1999, open source software from Asterisk fits a variety of applications and services, and transforms an everyday computer into a communications server.

The Asterisk system is able to perform internal functions others can not. Often referred to as a “developmental platform, ” Asterisk software can be used to operate large media servers as well as a typical small business PBX system. Besides being free, open source technology is versatile and can be customized. It has successfully challenged and competed with other closed platforms.

Asterisk, while originally designed for Linux, now also incorporates Mac OS X, NetBSD, OpenBSD, FreeBSD and Solaris. It can also provide a Microsoft Windows port called Asterisk Win32. When installed, the Asterisk software can transform an ordinary computer into a device that can function as a conference server, PBX or VoIP gateway. Asterisk PBX systems include many of the same features found in proprietary systems, including voice response for phone menus, conference calling, voice mail, and call distribution.

Originally developed by Mark Spencer of Digium, Inc, the original operating code has seen the contributions of open-source engineers and developers around the world. Asterisk does not manufacture or necessarily recommend any particular kind of physical phone equipment, because it can utilize your existing setup. When installed it functions as the basic software foundation, and can be altered as conditions merit.

Because of this flexibility and adaptability, the Asterisk system has been utilized and adopted by call centers world-wide. With bulk dialing, advanced routing and remote IP agent capabilities, it does not require additional hardware for for systems utilizing voice over IP. Certain cards are required for other interfaces including standard telephony. Support for this hardware comes from Digium, Inc., the parent company.

The system utilizes VoIP and PTSN drivers for interface cards, and handling and routing of both inbound and outbound calls. Tone generation, call billing details, and record and play media management functions are also featured. Conversion from one media format or protocol to another is possible, and the system can integrate both the database and Web Services. Asterisk is also able to handle single or multiple party bridging, and monitoring and recording uses.

The company can also furnish a telephony setup program named AsteriskNOW. This setup enhances the customization of systems by creating an software-based functional platform which can be controlled through an administrative GUI, or graphic user interface. Asterisk, Linux and FreePBX gui can be installed in a very short time, often less than half an hour. This allows the PBX to easily incorporate VoIP or Skype Gateways, PBX IP, a Call Center ACD, a Conference Bridge, and more features common to these setups.

Call centers and businesses worldwide have adopted the technology unique to the asterisk phone systems Toronto. It can be integrated into many existing setups, and is a free and open source. Whether you need to update your current PBX, or create an efficient and technologically sound digital call center, consider the cost-effective and proven advantages of Asterisk communications systems.

Core Telecom Innovations Inc. provides telecommunications solutions including asterisk phone systems Vancouver, PBX Business Center and VoIP Consulting.