Communication is the backbone of every successful business. As more companies adopt hybrid working models and prioritise flexibility, cloud hosted telephone systems have become the go-to solution. But what exactly is cloud telephony, and what makes it so beneficial?
In this article, we explore what a cloud hosted telephone system is, how it works, and most importantly – the key advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems for businesses of all sizes.
What Is a Cloud Hosted Telephone System?
A cloud hosted telephone system, also known as cloud-based telephony or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), is a communication solution that uses the internet to make and manage phone calls. Unlike traditional systems that rely on physical phone lines and onsite PBX hardware, cloud telephony is hosted offsite on secure cloud servers.
This means there’s minimal hardware involved. Your team simply uses IP-enabled phones, computers, or mobile devices to connect to the system – accessing everything from call settings to voicemail through a web-based portal or app.
How Does It Work?
Instead of routing calls through copper wires or local exchanges, cloud systems send voice data over the internet. This allows businesses to make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether your team is working from the office, at home, or on the go, they remain connected with full access to business features.
With solutions like those offered by The Unite Group, users can manage their entire phone system remotely, with options to add users, configure call routing, access voicemails, or view real-time analytics.
The Advantages of Cloud Hosted Telephone Systems
The advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems are vast. Below are the five core benefits that make this technology such a valuable investment for modern businesses.
Cost-Effective Setup and Operation
Cloud telephone systems remove the need for expensive on-site infrastructure, such as traditional PBX units or physical lines. Businesses avoid high upfront hardware costs and ongoing maintenance charges. Instead, cloud telephony is billed as a monthly service, allowing organisations to budget effectively and only pay for what they use.
For businesses looking to reduce overheads without compromising performance, this is one of the biggest advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems.
Scalable to Match Your Business Growth
Unlike traditional systems that require new hardware for every user added, cloud systems scale effortlessly. You can add or remove users, features, or phone numbers as needed—all through your online portal. This makes cloud telephony an ideal choice for growing businesses, temporary teams, or those with seasonal demand.
This kind of flexibility is a key reason businesses are turning to the advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems as they plan for the future.
Improved Flexibility and Remote Working
Remote and hybrid working are now standard practice. A cloud hosted telephone system supports this shift, enabling your staff to stay connected wherever they are. Team members can use their business phone number from a laptop, tablet, or mobile, without needing to be in the office.
With access to the system from any internet-enabled device, this flexibility enhances both business continuity and productivity.
Advanced Features for Professional Communication
Cloud telephone systems include a wide range of professional features that enhance customer service and internal communication. These include call routing, voicemail-to-email, auto-attendants, call recording, and virtual numbers.
Many systems, including those from The Unite Group, also integrate with CRM tools and productivity apps. This allows your staff to see customer details as calls come in, improving response times and offering a more personal service.
Such functionality is one of the major advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems, helping businesses create more professional and streamlined communications.
Reliable and Secure by Design
Security and reliability are non-negotiable. Cloud hosted telephone systems are typically maintained in secure UK-based data centres with built-in redundancy and disaster recovery. This ensures high availability and minimises the risk of service interruptions.
The Unite Group’s systems are fully managed, offering peace of mind that your communications are supported by expert technical teams around the clock.
Traditional vs Cloud: Why the Shift?
Traditional systems are increasingly seen as outdated. With fixed hardware, higher costs, and limited scalability, they no longer meet the needs of modern businesses. In contrast, the advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems include not only lower costs and better functionality but also the ability to work from anywhere, using any device.
It’s no surprise that more businesses are moving away from landlines and towards flexible, cloud-based alternatives.
Ready to Upgrade?
If your current phone system is holding you back, it might be time to explore the advantages of cloud hosted telephone systems for your business. Whether you’re looking to improve customer service, cut costs, or enable hybrid working, cloud telephony is a future-ready solution.
The Unite Group provides tailored hosted phone systems to suit businesses of all shapes and sizes. With our consultative approach and reliable infrastructure, we ensure you get the right system – backed by expert support.
Contact us today.