Virtual PBX, IP PBX and VoIP Setup

A virtual PBX is a company phone system that runs over the internet (VoIP) without depending on a physical PBX box. Extensions are used via IP phones, computers or mobile apps; the greeting menu, routing and call recording are managed through software.

An IP PBX is a phone system you manage in your office or on your server. The term virtual PBX is generally used for setups where the PBX is offered as a cloud service. In both, voice is carried over the internet; the difference is where the PBX runs and who manages it.

Usually yes. Number porting is done through licensed operators. The transition is planned so that no incoming calls are lost.

An FCT (Fixed Cellular Terminal) is a device that holds a GSM SIM and connects that line to the PBX. Calls to mobile phones go out over the GSM line instead of a landline; depending on the operator's tariff, this can offer cost advantages and it covers line needs where no landline is available.

Karel suits organizations that want a domestic service network and integrated hardware; 3CX suits those who want easy management and a strong mobile app; Asterisk-based solutions (FreePBX / Issabel) suit those who want a flexible setup without licensing costs. The decision is based on the number of extensions and the use case.

Price depends on the number of extensions, the chosen platform and licensing model, IP phone needs, number of lines, GSM FCT usage and additional features such as call recording. Operator line fees are separate from the installation fee.

It is a company phone system that runs as software on the service provider's infrastructure rather than as a device in your office. It requires no hardware investment, is usually billed as a monthly per-user subscription, and extensions are used from IP phones, computers or mobile apps.

If your team works in different locations and you want to get started quickly, a cloud PBX is usually a better fit. For heavy use at a single location, custom call flows or making use of existing hardware, an on-premises IP PBX may make sense.

No. Extensions can also be used through software on a computer or a mobile app. Desktop IP phones are preferred for comfort in positions that handle a high volume of calls.