What are VoIP Gateways?

VoIP Gateways allow you to use standard PSTN lines (Analog, BRI or E1/T1 PRI lines) with 3CX. There is no need to use a VoIP provider – if you have a good telecoms provider PSTN lines can still provide a very reliable service.

More and more businesses are replacing their outdated PSTN phone system with a modern VoIP solution, like 3CX. But, switching out your communications system at once can complicate businesses' processes, and temporarily increase maintenance and hardware costs. This is why some IT Managers use a VoIP Gateway, which converts traffic originating from IP Networks to PSTN friendly audio packets, to create a 'hybrid' approach.

A VoIP gateway can help you get the modern advantages of a VoIP system, whilst still benefiting from the familiarity of your existing devices and equipment. Keep reading to find out more:

Why use a VoIP gateway?

  • Migrate in Phases - Keep your existing hardware to stagger the cost of your migration.
  • Use Familiar Equipment - Reduce training and setup times, staff retain their existing devices.
  • Convert Incoming PSTN Lines to VoIP/SIP - Make and receive calls using the PSTN network.
  • Call using a VoIP service provider - Reduce interoffice costs by routing the calls via the Internet.
beroNet VoIP Gateways

What types of VoIP gateways are there?

  • Analog units - Analog units are used to connect regular analog phone lines to the gateway. Analog units are available for between 2-24 lines.
  • Digital units - Digital units allow you to connect digital lines, either one or more BRI ISDN lines (Europe), one or more PRI/E1 lines (Europe) or one or more T1 lines (USA).

VoIP gateway manufacturers

There's a great selection of VoIP gateways available today, and as demand has increased, prices have decreased considerably. Analog VoIP gateways start at as little as $200! 3CX supports a range of leading VoIP gateways that have been tested and quality approved so that you can be confident in their performance.

3CX can work with a wide range of VoIP Gateways. Although 3CX can work with any gateway that correctly supports the SIP standard, it's often preferable to stick with a VoIP Gateway that is specifically supported by 3CX. This is because 3CX support staff are familiar with the device and can help you configure the gateway. 3CX regularly tests these gateways with the latest firmware and 3CX version and also maintains a detailed configuration guide for these devices.

Further reading