But the truth is, modern business phone systems have become more accessible, affordable, and powerful than ever – especially with the rise of hosted and cloud-based telephony.
If you’re just starting out or considering upgrading your existing setup, this beginner’s guide will walk you through what business telephony actually is, how cloud phone systems differ from traditional landlines, and how providers like Yappl are making the switch easier than ever.
What is Business Telephony?
Business telephony simply refers to the communication systems businesses use to make and receive calls – both internally (between teams) and externally (with customers, suppliers, and partners).
Traditionally, this meant physical phone lines, desk phones, and on-site PBX systems (private branch exchanges).
But today’s business telephony has evolved far beyond the landline. With the rise of the internet and cloud computing, modern systems are now hosted online, offering far more flexibility, scalability, and features.
From Landlines to the Cloud: What’s Changed?
1. Traditional Landlines (PSTN)
These systems use the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a copper-based infrastructure that’s been around for decades.
While reliable, PSTN systems are costly to maintain, inflexible, and are being phased out – with the UK’s PSTN switch-off planned for 2025.
2. Hosted Telephony
Hosted telephony moves the entire phone system off-site. Instead of having bulky equipment in your office, your service provider (like Yappl) hosts it in the cloud.
All you need is an internet connection and compatible devices – and your team can make and take calls from anywhere.
3. Cloud Phone Systems
Cloud systems take hosted telephony further. They combine voice, video, chat, and collaboration tools into one platform – often referred to as unified communications.
These systems are ideal for flexible working, hybrid teams, and businesses looking to centralise their communications.
Is It Complicated to Switch?
Not at all – especially when you partner with a provider who handles the hard work for you.
At Yappl, we help businesses of all sizes move to smarter, simpler phone systems. Whether you’re a one-person startup or a growing company with remote teams, we’ll recommend the right solution based on how your team works.
We offer two powerful cloud-based platforms:
CallSwitch One
A flexible and user-friendly cloud phone system perfect for small teams and growing businesses. CallSwitch One includes all the essentials – like call routing, conferencing, and easy admin controls – in one simple licence.
Xelion
A fully featured unified communications platform, ideal for larger teams that want a central hub for calls, messaging, and video. With deep CRM integration and real-time analytics, Xelion is perfect for businesses looking to level up their communications.
Both options come with full support from Yappl, seven days a week.
What Equipment Do I Need?
The beauty of hosted telephony is its flexibility. You can use:
- Desk phones – IP handsets that connect via the internet
- Mobile apps – Great for remote and hybrid teams
- Softphones – Software-based phones that run on your laptop
We’ll work with you to get the right setup – whether you’re desk-based, always on the move, or a mix of both.
Future-Proofing with Yappl
As the 2025 PSTN switch-off approaches, now is the time to make the move to hosted or cloud-based telephony.
At Yappl, we make it easy to future-proof your business with affordable, scalable systems that work wherever you are.
We’re partnered with top-tier providers, offer tailored packages, and take the time to understand your business needs – so you get a solution that fits, not just one that ticks boxes.
Final Thoughts
Business telephony isn’t just about making calls – it’s about staying connected, delivering great service, and working flexibly.
Whether you’re ditching landlines for the first time or upgrading your setup, hosted and cloud phone systems offer real benefits without the headache.
And with Yappl on your side, making the switch is easier than you think. Get in touch with us to get started.