A PBX telefonanlage, or private branch exchange telephone system, is a telephone system within an enterprise that switches calls between users on local lines while allowing access to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). PBX systems are used to manage a large number of telephone extensions within an organization, and can offer a variety of features and benefits, such as:
- Centralized call management
- Improved call routing
- Call forwarding and voicemail
- Least-cost routing
- Enhanced security
PBX systems have been used for many years, and have evolved from simple electromechanical systems to sophisticated computer-based systems. Modern PBX systems offer a wide range of features and capabilities, and can be integrated with other business applications, such as customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.