Business Phone Service in Providence, RI

A business phone system is designed to provide communication between your employees and your customers. Rather than having individual, single-line business phones for each employee, a unified collaboration system streamlines internal and external communications.

There are three broad categories for types of business phone systems: analog, private branch exchange (PBX), and voice over internet protocol (VoIP). Analog systems are landline-based and allow multiple incoming calls to ring on a single phone. The system requires a receptionist to direct calls to specific extensions and does not support intra-office calling. PBX and VoIP systems work similarly but automate many of the processes that must be handled manually on an analog business phone system.

PBX systems receive calls through a buffer—a centralized, electronic receiving area—and then connect callers with their desired extension via an automated process, rather than relying on a human receptionist. Additionally, PBX systems allow intra-office communication; employees can dial an extension to reach their colleagues without having to engage an external line. PBX systems require a physical infrastructure on-site, so there is an upfront investment in building out that system, plus required maintenance and upkeep throughout the life of the business phone system.

VoIP systems offer the same benefits as a PBX system, but they are cloud-based and maintained by a business phone service provider like Cox Business. They help eliminate the need for costly installation and upkeep of PBX hardware.

Business phone line costs vary based on the number of lines, phone service type, included features, and selected add-ons. You'll also want to account for upfront costs, including equipment, installation, construction, inside wiring, taxes, and fees.

To learn more about the VoiceManager plans and additional phone services available in Providence, RI, contact our sale team about a Business Phone Line.

Virtual number service is an optional offering from Cox Business. A virtual business phone number provides you inward calling on a cloud-based number, which can be routed to any of your office phones. You can ring both mobile and landline phones, and you're able to select how, when, and where each phone rings based on the time of day or the person who is calling.

For business owners wishing to establish a local presence and avoid using a less personalized toll-free number, a virtual business phone number allows you to select a number with a local area code that can ring anywhere.

The steps for setting up your small business phone system will vary depending on the type of system you choose.

For small business owners looking to utilize their existing equipment, a Cox Business Phone plan (hosted on our secured network) allows for quick setup without investing in expensive equipment.

Our voice over internet protocol (VoIP) systems are cloud-based and hosted on the Cox Business network. As these business phone systems do not require businesses to provide equipment or infrastructure, our team manages all updates and installations.

As a part of the business telephone service selection process, you can choose your business phone number. You may wish to use a local number, toll-free number, or both. It's also possible to maintain your existing business phone number if you'd prefer.

Once your business phone service has been selected and your business phone number has been established, you can set up the system internally for you and your employees.

Record a main message with your business information and manage all employee extensions and access via the MyAccount Web portal. The portal provides an easy-to-use interface to manage a variety of features including out-of-office messages,s, call forwarding, and much more.