Hi, I am looking to upgrade my company's current phone system to IP PBX. The main advantage for us would be easier and cheaper maintenance and administration for one system.
The company currently is only at one site, and has roughly 30 employees, but only 17 employees with phones. The old PBX (is that also known as POTS?) currently has 4 phone lines and 1 fax.
I am looking at both Cisco's Unified Communications System 500 Series for Small Businesses (24 user's to start), as well as 3CX's software IP PBX (Small Business Edition). I know I would need to buy a server if I got 3CX's solution, but aside from that, with just an IP PBX can I plug in an IP Phone and go, per say? Or do I need VoIP service, or a VoIP gateway, or anything else?
I have been researching for a couple of days now, and still don't have a grasp on what exactly I would need to completely override the old system with IP PBX phone system.
Also, are there any differences / major advantages from Cisco's system and 3CX because Cisco is very pricey?
As far as a budget goes - it is unknown. I just need to present options to my boss, and go from there.