IP PBX is a telephone exchange which uses IP data network for telephone calls. All voice conversations are sent over IP networks as data packets. This kind of Telephone exchange offers many advanced features as well as offer completely worry free upgrade options.

Though legacy PBX are widely used in India and they likely to remain in Indian market for some time to come, but one should seriously consider having IP PBX in their office where they need to have a computer LAN installed.

Here are five reasons why one should consider :-
1. Easy install and Configuration
Since IP PBX runs as a software on PC or server class machine, it is much easier to install, configure just like any computer network. It comes with easy to use GUI(Graphics User Interface), menu driven configuration which are easy to understand and follow. Legacy PBX are programmed through various commands using a COM port. This is not always easy or user friendly .
This also helps managing the PBX easier and no specially trained personal on PABX required for managing the IP PBX. Any routine administrative jobs like creating new extension, assign features etc. could be managed by any computer literate person.

2. Reduce vendor dependency
IP PBX work on open standards. So, using IP PBX can reduce or eliminate dependency on one single vendor for providing accessories, upgrades for the IP PBX. Many a times, vendor may charge exorbitantly for any spare or simple upgrade. Using IP PBX eliminates this kind of situation.

3. Easier CTI Integration
Since IP PBX is a software, it can have better and much easier integration with CTI(Computer Telephony Integration) applications. Easy integration with CTI applications give many advanced and powerful features to the telephone exchange like IVR ( Interactive Response System), VMS ( Voice Mail System ), intelligent call routing etc.
So, IP PBX offers in-built CTI applications most of the time unlike legacy PABX systems which require third party CTI hardware and software.

4. VoIP Service
With IP PBX, one VoIP service provider for long distance and international calls which will result in significant cost reduction. Many branch offices of the organisation located at various places could be connected through internet and voice calls could be made free of cost!
This is a significant advantage over legacy PBX which needs special hardware or gateway for connecting to VoIP services.

5. Roaming facility
If an employee is transferred to another office, his extension number needs to be reprogrammed or changed altogether! But not with IP PBX! The employee extension can retain the same extension number no matter where he moves! So, one does not need to update his business card or notify his contacts.

So, if some one is considering to invest in a office telephone exchange, one must consider IP PBX. Now a days, many legacy PABX manufacturers offer IP PBX too. So, availability of IP PBX in India is no longer a hindrance in considering IP PBX.