How to Set Up an IP PBX

Depending on the kind of software you purchase, it can be easy to set up an IP PBX system. There are various types of IP PBX systems, from UNIX open source software that you can install and configure on your own to proprietary servers pre-configured by the manufacturer. Setting up the system depends on the hardware and software, but these setup steps apply to most IP PBX systems.

Instructions

1. Sign up for VOIP service. Follow the VOIP service's directions for setting up service. Write down your proxy IP address, account number and password.

2. Purchase a computer to run the IP PBX. The processor must comply to the software requirements. It needs sound and ethernet connectivity. Choose an IP address for your IP PBX that is outside your DHCP range. Connect a network cable, mouse, keyboard and monitor to the server.

3. Install the IP PBX software according to the manufacturer's directions. Restart the computer. Log in with the default login information, usually "root" and "password" for a Unix server or "admin" for both username and password for other systems.

4. Change the server's network address if necessary. Type "netconfig" at the prompt. Enter the IP address for your server, gateway and DNS server. Click "OK" to make the changes. Reboot the machine.

5. Open the file "hosts" in the "etc" folder. Scroll to the end of the file. Enter the line "sip." followed by the URL of your VOIP provider. Type a space. Enter the IP address of your proxy.

6. Start Internet Explorer from another computer. Browse to "http://" followed by the IP address of your IP PBX. Go into the setup program for your IP management software. Enter your phone number for caller ID and user information and your VOIP provider's proxy address for proxy port.

7. Configure extension information. Change the lengths and types of extensions. Add extensions, then add them to a group.