Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Qphone® differ from the typical  "business plans" offered by other VoIP providers?
A: Qphone offers real business features like voice menus, music on hold, call transfer -- the list goes on. Other  "business plans" offer just a randomly assigned 10-digit number for each user.  No voice menus, transfers, extensions numbers -- not really a business system at all !!!

Q:  What does Qphone cost?
A: Monthly charges are $99 plus $9 per extension.  There is no activation fee and no cancellation charge. Calls are 2.9c per minute.

Q: How many phone lines do I get?
A: The number of simultaneous calls is limited only by the speed of your Internet connection.

Q: Can I keep my existing number?  My 800 number?
A: Yes to both.  But rather than porting your number over to us, you might prefer to forward your exisitng number(s)  to the new number we provide you.  This way,  if your internet connection or network goes down, you can still receive inbound calls on a legacy phone. 

Network Issues
Q: I don't have any extra ports on my network for IP phones.  Do I have to buy more networking gear?
A: No!  You can insert a phone between any PC and the wall Ethernet socket, using their built-in 2-port Ethernet switches.

Q: Can I use my existing router/firewall?
A: Yes.  All modern devices will give necessary priority to voice.

Q: How many phones can I use with a DSL connection to the Internet?
A: Typically, around 10-20 calls can be placed at one time.  Each phone requires about 30kbs bandwidth.

Phones
Q: Do I have to buy phones from you?
A: No, purchase recommended phone sets anywhere you please. By the way, these phones are useable with most other open VoIP systems -- not just ours!

Q: Can I use a cordless phone?
A: Yes.  With an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) you can plug in a standard cordless Caller ID phone.  Also,  if you have a wireless network, you can use a wireless SIP phone.

PBX Features
Q: How many voicemail boxes can I have?
A: Each extension has its own mailbox.  Additionally, you can create a virtual extension with its own mailbox for a specific purpose; for instance, "To have one of our specialists contact you, please leave your name and number."

Q: How do I check voice mail using my cell phone?
A: Just call in, provide your extension number and PIN, then follow the voice prompts.

Q: Can I forward my extension to my cell phone?
A: Yes. Even if you have already left the office you can call in with your extenson number and PIN.

Q: Can inbound callers wait in line for the next available person?
A: Yes, and this is very easy to set up using your browser.

Q: What about Music on Hold?
A: Callers hear Music or Message on Hold while waiting.  You can quickly upload custom WAV files.

Q: How do I use the sytem when I'm on the road?
A: You can use a software phone on your laptop or even take a small IP telephone with you.  If you find yourself without Internet access, you can always dial in to the system from any phone to check your voice messages.

General
Q: Can I sign up on-line?
A:  Yes.   Click here.

Q: Who invented Qphone?
A: Qphone® is based on Asterisk, the Open Source PBX.  The Bristol Group, Ltd., has set up servers in modern data centers to provide reliable, feature-rich Hosted PBX functionality at affordable prices.