In today’s fast-paced business world, traditional phone systems are quickly becoming outdated. More companies are shifting to cloud-based phone solutions to improve flexibility, reduce costs, and enhance communication. Microsoft Phone Systems offers a seamless way to move your business calls to the cloud while integrating directly with Microsoft Teams.

With Microsoft Teams Phone, businesses can replace traditional landlines with a modern, cloud-based solution that enables voice and video calling from anywhere. Whether your team is working remotely, in the office, or on the go, this system keeps everyone connected through a single platform. Click on the following sections to learn more.

1. What Are Microsoft Phone Systems?
2. Integrating Microsoft Phone Systems into Your Office
3. How to Use Microsoft Phone Systems
4. How to Get Started with Network Telecom

Network Telecom specializes in installing and supporting Microsoft Phone Systems, ensuring a smooth transition for businesses looking to upgrade their communication. Contact us today to get started.

Microsoft Phone Systems

1. What Are Microsoft Phone Systems?

Microsoft Phone Systems—powered by Microsoft Teams Phone—allow businesses to move all their voice calling services to the cloud. – *Image by Microsoft

As businesses continue to embrace cloud technology, phone systems are no exception. Traditional phone lines are being replaced by cloud-based phone solutions that offer more flexibility, cost savings, and seamless communication. Microsoft Phone Systems—powered by Microsoft Teams Phone—allow businesses to move all their voice calling services to the cloud, eliminating the need for physical phone lines and outdated hardware.

Understanding Cloud-Based Phone Systems

A cloud-based phone system is a voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) solution that enables businesses to make and receive phone calls over the internet instead of using traditional landlines. With Microsoft Phone Systems, all phone-related functions—including call routing, voicemail, and conferencing—are managed through Microsoft Teams, providing a centralized communication hub for businesses.

This means that instead of relying on desk phones connected to a landline, employees can make and receive calls from their computer, smartphone, tablet, or even a compatible desk phone—as long as they have an internet connection. The transition to a cloud-based phone system simplifies communication, especially for businesses with remote or hybrid teams.

Key Benefits of Microsoft Phone Systems

Switching to a Microsoft cloud phone system comes with several advantages:

Flexibility – Employees can make and receive business calls from anywhere, whether they are in the office, at home, or travelling. Since the system is cloud-based, they can use their existing Microsoft Teams app on any device.

Cost Savings – Cloud phone systems eliminate the need for costly on-premises PBX (private branch exchange) hardware. Businesses no longer need to maintain separate phone lines, and they can scale their service as needed without expensive upgrades.

Seamless Integration with Microsoft Teams – If your business already uses Microsoft Teams for collaboration, adding a Teams Phone System means that calling, video conferencing, and messaging are all handled in one platform—no switching between apps or devices.

Scalability – Whether you have a small team or a large enterprise, Microsoft Phone Systems can scale according to your needs, making it a great solution for growing businesses.

Advanced Features – Features like auto-attendant (virtual receptionist), call queues, voicemail-to-email, and call recording allow businesses to improve customer service and internal communication.

Types of Microsoft Phone Systems Available

No matter which option you choose, Network Telecom can help you integrate Microsoft Phone Systems. – *Image by Microsoft

Microsoft offers three different options for integrating cloud phone services into your business. Each option provides a different level of control and customization.

A) Microsoft Teams Phone with Calling Plan

With Microsoft Teams Phone with Calling Plan, Microsoft acts as your phone service provider. This means Microsoft will provide:

• Phone numbers for your employees
• Calling services (local and international calling)
• Cloud-based PBX features (such as voicemail, call forwarding, and auto-attendant)

This option is ideal for businesses looking for a simple, all-in-one solution without having to deal with third-party telecom providers. It’s perfect for companies that want Microsoft to handle everything, from assigning phone numbers to managing the calling infrastructure.

B) Operator Connect

Operator Connect allows businesses to integrate their existing phone service provider into Microsoft Teams. Instead of using Microsoft’s calling plans, businesses work with a certified telecom provider like Network Telecom, to enable calling within Microsoft Teams.

With Operator Connect, businesses can:

• Keep their current phone numbers
• Work with a trusted telecom provider for better call quality and support
• Get direct integration with Microsoft Teams for seamless communication

This option is great for businesses that want to continue using their existing phone service provider but want the added benefits of cloud-based phone management within Teams.

C) Direct Routing

Direct Routing is the most customizable option, allowing businesses to connect their own telephony infrastructure (such as an on-premises PBX or SIP trunk) to Microsoft Teams. This option requires a bit more setup but gives businesses complete control over their phone system.

With Direct Routing, businesses can:

• Use their existing carrier and phone numbers
• Integrate Teams Phone with their current phone system
• Customize call routing and advanced features

Direct Routing is ideal for larger businesses or those with complex telephony needs that require custom call flows, international calling, or specific hardware integrations.

Which Microsoft Phone System is Right for You?

Choosing the best Microsoft Phone System depends on your business size, needs, and existing phone setup.

• If you want Microsoft to handle everything (phone numbers and calling plans), go with Microsoft Teams Phone with Calling Plan.
• If you want to keep your current provider but use Microsoft Teams for calls, Operator Connect is a great choice.
• If you need advanced control and customization, Direct Routing is the most flexible option.

No matter which option you choose, Network Telecom can help you integrate Microsoft Phone Systems into your business and ensure a smooth migration to the cloud. In the next section, we’ll explore how to set up Microsoft Phone Systems in your office and what hardware you may need.

2. Integrating Microsoft Phone Systems into Your Office

Microsoft Phone Systems allow employees to make and receive calls directly from their computer or mobile device – *Image by Microsoft

Once you’ve chosen the right Microsoft Phone System for your business, the next step is integrating it into your office. Since Microsoft Teams Phone is a cloud-based solution, you don’t need traditional phone lines or on-premises PBX hardware. However, you may want to invest in the right hardware to enhance usability, ensure clear communication, and improve collaboration.

What Hardware Do You Need?

While Microsoft Phone Systems allow employees to make and receive calls directly from their computer or mobile device, adding dedicated hardware can improve the calling experience. Here are some key devices to consider:

Desk Phones

For employees who prefer a physical phone, Microsoft offers Teams-certified desk phones with touchscreen displays, high-quality speakers, and built-in Teams integration. These phones provide an intuitive experience with dedicated Teams buttons, voicemail access, and seamless call transfer capabilities.

Headsets

Headsets are an essential tool for hands-free calling, especially in busy office environments or for remote workers. Microsoft Teams-compatible headsets come in wired and wireless options, offering noise cancellation, superior audio quality, and comfort for all-day use. These are perfect for customer service teams, sales representatives, and employees who frequently take calls.

Conference Room Equipment

Investing in Microsoft Teams-certified conference room equipment ensures clear audio and video.

For businesses that conduct regular meetings or video conferences, investing in Microsoft Teams-certified conference room equipment ensures clear audio and video. Some key options include:

• Collaboration Bars – All-in-one video conferencing devices with built-in cameras and speakers.
• Speakerphones – High-quality audio devices designed for crystal-clear conference calls.
• Web Cameras – HD cameras to improve video call clarity for remote meetings.

By equipping your office with the right Microsoft Teams-certified hardware, you can create a seamless, professional communication experience for both employees and clients.

How Many Devices Should You Buy?

When planning your hardware needs, consider the following factors:

Business Size and Employee Roles

• Office-based employees may require desk phones or headsets for regular calling.
• Customer service teams benefit from wired or wireless headsets for hands-free communication.
• Executives and managers may prefer high-end desk phones with touchscreen displays.
• Remote and hybrid workers might only need a headset or web camera to use with their laptops.

Remote vs. In-Office Workers

Since Microsoft Teams Phone allows employees to make calls from anywhere, remote workers may not require traditional desk phones. Instead, providing Teams-certified headsets and webcams can enhance their virtual presence and call quality.

Scalability: Planning for Growth

One of the advantages of Microsoft Phone Systems is their scalability. Instead of buying unnecessary hardware upfront, you can start with the essentials and expand as your business grows. Since Teams Phone is cloud-based, adding new users or upgrading devices is simple and cost-effective.

By selecting the right combination of desk phones, headsets, and conference room equipment, businesses can optimize their Microsoft Phone System setup to ensure seamless communication and productivity.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to use Microsoft Phone Systems effectively, from making calls to training your team on the new system.

3. How to Use Microsoft Phone Systems

Microsoft Teams Phone consolidates all communication channels into one platform. – *Image by Microsoft

Once your business has successfully integrated Microsoft Phone Systems, the next step is learning how to effectively use its features. Microsoft Teams Phone is designed to be intuitive, but understanding its capabilities will help your team maximize efficiency, enhance collaboration, and improve customer interactions.

Practical Applications for Business Communication

Microsoft Teams Phone consolidates all communication channels into one platform, making it easy for employees to manage calls, messages, and meetings from a single interface.

Making and Receiving Calls

With Microsoft Teams Phone, users can:

• Make and receive calls from their computer, mobile device, or Teams-certified desk phone.
• Use click-to-dial functionality within Teams to instantly call contacts.
• Transfer, hold, or merge calls with ease for seamless customer service.

Voicemail, Call Forwarding, and Auto Attendants

• Voicemail: Employees can receive and manage voicemails directly in Teams, with voicemail transcription for quick reading.
• Call Forwarding: Users can set up custom call forwarding rules to ensure they never miss an important call.
• Auto Attendants: Businesses can configure automated call routing, allowing callers to reach the right department without manual intervention.

Video Conferencing and Collaboration Tools

Beyond traditional calling, Microsoft Teams Phone enables:

• High-quality video calls and meetings, perfect for remote work and client interactions.
• Screen sharing and file collaboration, ensuring teams can work together in real time.
• Integration with Microsoft 365 apps, allowing users to schedule and join meetings directly from Outlook.

Training and Support for Seamless Adoption

To ensure a smooth transition to Microsoft Phone Systems, proper training and support are essential. Network Telecom provides comprehensive onboarding and ongoing assistance to help businesses fully utilize their new cloud-based communication system.

Onboarding Employees with Step-by-Step Guidance

• Network Telecom offers personalized training sessions to help employees become comfortable with using Teams for calling, voicemail, and meetings.
• Role-specific training ensures that customer service teams, managers, and remote workers understand the features that matter most to them.

Training on Using Microsoft Teams for Calls, Messaging, and Meetings

• Employees will learn how to navigate Teams Phone, manage contacts, set up call forwarding, and use collaboration tools.
• Network Telecom provides guides and video tutorials to reinforce training and ensure employees can refer back to instructions as needed.

Ongoing Support from Network Telecom

• Network Telecom’s team is available for troubleshooting, upgrades, and feature customization, ensuring your phone system evolves with your business needs.
• Businesses can contact Network Telecom for ongoing advice, new feature rollouts, and scaling solutions as their organization grows.

By investing in proper training and support, businesses can fully leverage Microsoft Phone Systems for enhanced communication, productivity, and efficiency.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to get started with Network Telecom to begin the installation process and move your phone service to the cloud.

4. How to Get Started with Network Telecom

Network Telecom makes the transition seamless and stress-free.

Migrating to Microsoft Phone Systems may seem like a big change, but Network Telecom makes the transition seamless and stress-free. From initial setup to post-installation support, we ensure your business experiences minimal disruption while upgrading to a modern, cloud-based communication system.

Seamless Installation Process

With years of experience in telecom solutions, Network Telecom manages the entire installation and migration process, so you don’t have to worry about technical complications.

Here’s how Network Telecom ensures a smooth transition:

• Initial Consultation: Network Telecom’s experts assess your business’s needs and recommend the best Microsoft Phone System solution for you.
• System Setup & Configuration: Network Telecom handles everything from setting up Teams Phone features to integrating existing hardware like desk phones, headsets, and conference room equipment.
• Testing & Optimization: Before finalizing the setup, Network Telecom rigorously tests the system to ensure call quality, reliability, and seamless functionality.
• Training & Support: Employees receive guidance on using their new system, and Network Telecom offers ongoing support to help businesses adapt to their new cloud-based phone service.

By partnering with Network Telecom, your business can upgrade its phone system without downtime or confusion, ensuring a hassle-free migration to the cloud.

Contact Network Telecom Today

Ready to modernize your business communication? Network Telecom is here to help.

• Expertise You Can Trust – With extensive experience in cloud-based phone solutions, NT ensures your business gets the best setup for its unique needs.
• Tailored Solutions – Whether you need a simple Microsoft Teams Phone with a Calling Plan or a more customized Direct Routing setup, NT will create the right solution for you.
• Ongoing Support & Optimization – Your business will benefit from dedicated assistance to ensure long-term success with your new phone system.

Don’t wait to upgrade—contact Network Telecom today! Schedule a consultation to discuss your Microsoft Phone System options and take the first step toward a future-proof communication system.

What Our Customers Are Saying…