If your business still runs a PBX over PRI circuits, you have probably been offered SIP trunking. Here is how the two compare and what to check before you switch.
How they differ
| PRI | SIP Trunking | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | A dedicated T1 circuit | Over your data connection |
| Capacity | 23 voice channels per circuit | Sized to your concurrent calls |
| Adding capacity | Usually another circuit | Usually a change to your order |
| Multi-site | Separate circuits at each site | Can be designed centrally |
Why companies move to SIP
- You buy the channels you use rather than blocks of 23
- Voice and data can share one circuit and one provider
- You keep your PBX, so there is no need to replace phones
What to check first
- Your PBX: does it support SIP, or does it need a gateway?
- Your circuit: voice quality depends on it. Dedicated internet or private Ethernet is a better base than shared broadband
- 911: each emergency number needs an accurate registered location. Read our Voice Services Rider
- Fax, alarm and card lines: these may not work reliably over digital voice. Test each with its vendor, and see POTS Replacement
- Your numbers: ask how and when they move, and plan the cutover around that date
Maybe you do not need a PBX
If yours is near the end of its life, compare UCaaS as well. If you want to keep it, see FiberFed SIP Trunking.
Get a real quote
Check availability at your address, talk to us, or call 855-342-3737.
Related services: Dedicated Internet Access | Service Areas
