There are many points to consider when making a business communications upgrade and it’s probably a good idea to start with whether to go cloud-hosted or on-premise. This depends on a few factors; the size of the company, existing infrastructure, available budget, management resources, and what you wish to gain from your PBX.
To make a decision, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and the benefits that each option could provide.
Managed Cloud-Hosted PBX
At 10X IT, we understand that the terms "cloud" and "hosted" are often used interchangeably. However, in the context of specific deployment options, "cloud" refers to a managed service. With our Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subscription, companies can opt for a hosted communications system, relieving them of the burden of management, maintenance, and upgrades. This deployment option is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that have limited IT resources.
By shifting the responsibility of running and upgrading the Hosted PBX to a third-party provider, businesses can eliminate concerns about network issues such as bandwidth. This is especially crucial for SMBs that may not have the necessary bandwidth to support Unified Communications and VoIP.
With our Cloud PBX, dedicated personnel to manage the phone system are no longer required, resulting in cost savings. Additionally, there is no need for end users to undergo training on how to operate the phone system or add extensions. We take care of all those tasks on behalf of our clients.
Furthermore, all upgrades are seamlessly included in the maintenance costs and are automatically implemented by our experienced PBX provider. At 10X IT, we strive to provide a hassle-free and efficient communications solution, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations while enjoying the benefits of a robust and fully managed phone system.
On-Premises PBX
At 10X IT, we recognize that some businesses prefer to have full control over their phone system, which is why we offer on-premise PBX solutions. With an on-premise PBX, the system is deployed on servers owned by the business, allowing them complete management if desired. However, it is important to note that this type of installation requires the appropriate infrastructure, including servers, network, and devices. Businesses must consider these factors when budgeting for their phone system.
On-premise PBXs are particularly suited for larger enterprises that already have the necessary infrastructure and resources to run and manage their phone system. This option is often favored by businesses operating in sectors that require strict security and confidentiality measures.
By choosing an on-premise PBX, the end-user gains greater control over their phone system. It is an ideal solution for large organizations that already have the infrastructure, bandwidth, and network settings required to host their own phone system, unified communications platform, and VoIP services.
One of the advantages of an on-premise PBX is that simple tasks like adding extensions can be done without relying on the support of a third-party PBX provider. All the phone system data and settings remain in the hands of the end-user, providing them with a high level of control and customization.
While businesses have the option to manage their on-premise PBX independently, they can still acquire third-party support and maintenance services through a PBX reseller if desired. At 10X IT, we are committed to providing flexible solutions that meet the unique needs of our clients, whether they choose an on-premise or a managed cloud PBX system.
How to Choose Between On-Premise and Cloud-Hosted
At 10X IT, we understand that choosing between on-premise, hosted, or full cloud service depends on a business's infrastructure and resources. If you already have the necessary infrastructure in place, including network, security, power, and servers, and you're comfortable using it for your communications, an on-premise PBX is a solid choice.
However, it's important to note that even with support and maintenance from a third-party, you will still need an IT administrator who can handle running the PBX and performing daily tasks.
If you're looking to reduce the resources dedicated to managing these services, a hosted or cloud solution is ideal. The level of control you want to retain over your communications system should be taken into consideration. If your company has a skilled team capable of running and maintaining a software PBX, a hosted solution allows you to outsource hardware and infrastructure needs while maintaining control over the PBX's data and settings. It's also important to evaluate your internet connectivity. While high-speed internet is prevalent for most companies, those in areas with limited access may find that an on-premise solution provides more reliable connectivity.
At 10X IT, we offer a range of options to meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you choose on-premise, hosted, or cloud service, we're here to provide the expertise and support required for seamless integration and optimal performance of your communications system.