1. General – What PBXme is and what “cloud PBX / VoIP” means
What is PBXme?
PBXme is a VoIP and business telephony knowledge hub. We publish practical guides, comparisons, and setup tips for cloud PBX, SIP trunks, softphones, call routing, and modern business communications.
Start here: PBXme Home
What is a cloud PBX and how does it work?
A cloud PBX is a phone system hosted in the cloud (instead of on-premise hardware). Calls are handled over the internet (VoIP), and can ring your mobile, desk phone, softphone, or multiple devices at once—based on routing rules you control.
Do I need special equipment to use VoIP?
Not necessarily. Many businesses use softphones (apps) on computers and smartphones. If you prefer desk phones, you’ll need SIP-compatible IP phones, or an adapter (ATA) for legacy phones.
Can VoIP support multiple simultaneous calls?
Yes. Simultaneous call capacity depends on your provider plan (channels), your SIP trunk settings, and your internet quality. You can scale up channels to support more concurrent calls as your team grows.
Are there any usage restrictions?
Typical restrictions across VoIP providers include anti-fraud / anti-spam policies, acceptable use rules, and compliance with local telecom regulations (especially for caller ID and number ownership).
2. Using VoIP – inbound calls, outbound calls, and call routing
How do inbound calls reach my phone or PBX?
Inbound calls can ring a SIP endpoint (PBX/softphone), be forwarded to mobile/landline, or follow routing rules like IVR menus, ring groups, queues, and time-of-day routing.
Learn more: PBXme Guides
How do outbound calls work with SIP trunks?
Outbound calls are placed via a SIP trunk configured on your PBX or softphone. Your provider routes the call to the PSTN, and caller ID (CLI) may be controlled by configuration and local rules.
How should I dial international numbers?
Use full international format (E.164), typically starting with + and the country code. Example: +1 (USA), +44 (UK), +972 (Israel).
What affects call quality?
Call quality depends on latency, jitter, packet loss, codec choice, and network congestion. For best results: use a stable wired connection, QoS on the router, and a provider with reliable routing.
3. Before you choose a provider – compatibility and testing
How can I test SIP compatibility?
Use a SIP softphone or PBX with test credentials (when available), validate registration, and place test calls. Check one-way audio, DTMF, caller ID, and stability over time.
What do I need for a reliable VoIP setup?
A stable internet connection, SIP-compatible devices/software, and proper network configuration (NAT, firewall, QoS). Business-grade routers and managed networks often improve reliability.
4. Integrations – PBX platforms, CRMs, and automation
Which PBX systems are commonly supported?
Most SIP providers support popular PBXs such as Asterisk/FreePBX, 3CX, FusionPBX, hosted PBX services, and many softphones.
Can I automate call flows and reporting?
Yes. Many stacks support webhooks, APIs, call detail records (CDRs), and integrations with tools like Zapier/Make. This enables automation like missed-call alerts, CRM logging, and dashboard reporting.
5. SMS, verification codes, and third-party services
Do VoIP numbers support SMS?
It depends on the number type and provider. Some numbers support inbound SMS, some support outbound, and some do not support SMS at all. Always confirm SMS capability before purchasing.
Can VoIP numbers be used for WhatsApp / Facebook / Gmail verification?
Sometimes—but it’s never guaranteed. Acceptance is controlled by the third-party platform and can change without notice.
Why might a verification code not arrive?
Common reasons include platform filtering of VoIP ranges, country restrictions, carrier routing issues, or SMS not being enabled on the specific number type.
6. Billing and account basics (general guidance)
How do VoIP providers typically bill?
Billing models vary: monthly subscriptions per user/seat, per-number rental, per-minute usage, channel-based plans, or bundled minutes. Always review rates for inbound/outbound, forwarding, and add-ons.
7. Support, compliance, and KYC (Know Your Customer)
How can I contact PBXme?
PBXme is a content site. If you’re looking for help with a specific guide or want to suggest a topic, you can reach us via our contact page.
Contact: PBXme Contact
What is KYC and why do VoIP providers require it?
KYC (“Know Your Customer”) is an identity / business verification process required by many regulators and carriers. It helps prevent fraud, spam, and misuse of phone numbers.
Which documents may be required as part of a KYC process?
Depending on country and number type, providers may ask for one or more of:
- Personal ID (driver’s license, national ID, or passport)
- A local address
- Proof of address (utility bill, municipal tax bill, internet/phone bill) showing name and address
- Company registration / incorporation documents
- An active website and an active email address on the same domain
- A contact phone number
8. Technical – common VoIP issues
My softphone/PBX won’t register — what should I check?
Verify SIP credentials, server/host, and network settings (NAT, firewall, SIP ALG, ports). Try a different network, disable SIP ALG, and confirm your IP isn’t blocked by the provider.
I have one-way audio — how do I fix it?
One-way audio is usually NAT/firewall related. Check RTP port ranges, public IP settings, and whether your PBX is behind NAT. Use STUN/TURN where appropriate and confirm symmetric RTP settings.
