Why Asterisk?

The Linux based Open Source Software Asterisk has become the de facto standard in modern VoIP PBX systems. Because of its powerful and flexible structure Asterisk is also being used as the VoIP engine in commercial PBX products, partly because some pbx manufacturers have realized that it would not make much sense to compete against the development momentum of this open source project and end up having an expensive look-alike that no one writes interface software for.

The flexibility of Asterisk comes with a price, though. There is no user friendly interface included and the command language and syntax have a very steep learning curve.

Even though some VoIP enthusiasts are configuring their Asterisk PBX from the command line interface, this is not practical for a commercial product. Managing a pbx system this way would be just as absurd as trying to sell a fax machine that needs a computer science diploma to operate.

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Voicemail, CDR, Web Dialer and Phonebook for Asterisk   More...

• Easy installation and integration
• User friendly design
• Integrated Web Dialer (Click-to-Dial)
• Workgroup Answering Machine
• Monitor recent call history (CDR)
• Mobile devices supported (240x320)
• Callers are shown by name
• LDAP Interface to MS Exchange, Novell eDirectory, etc.
• Works with Trixbox, PBX Manager, FOP and most other Asterisk solutions

IAX Soft Phone for Pocket PC   More...

Use this IAX Softphone to turn your PDA into a reliable VoIP Telephone. It attaches via WLAN / Wi-Fi internet connection to your Asterisk PBX or any IAX VoIP provider.

• No more NAT firewall problems
• Fully compatible with any Asterisk PBX
• Runs on Windows Mobile 2003 and 2005 devices
• Dial directly from your contacts
• Free demo version available

An open VoIP system offers advanced features onheard of with conventional pbx solutions. As with any emerging market product offerings and services are quite confusing. Here is a very subjective selection of some current highlights.

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