PSTN, ISDN, & Hosted PBX: What’s the difference?

A telephone system is one of the first technologies businesses invest in. Without a good phone system, businesses are likely to face obstacles in communicating with customers, suppliers or vendors. Choosing the right system is important, but with the assortment of solutions available, it can be overwhelming.

Another complicating factor is that phone system technology has changed a lot over the last few years. In fact, one widely used technology, ISDN, is being phased out of Australia altogether. Given these circumstances, it’s important to make a choice that will suit your business not just in the short-term, but for years ahead.

PSTN

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is, in simple terms, the collection of circuit-switched networks around the world. In terms of business phone systems, using PSTN means having a typical landline phone connected by copper lines.

As a dedicated service, the line cannot be used for any other purpose while on a call. One phone number is equivalent to one phone line. Using a private branch exchange (PBX), business can organise multiple landlines into a local network.

The PBX remains a standard for most businesses, though such exchanges can be set up using more recent technology, as well.

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network, also known as ISDN, is a type of telephone system that carries both voice and data in digital format rather than waves. While it uses the same circuit-switched networks as PSTN, its two-channel system allows for multiple concurrent calls, including having local calls handled internally. When it was introduced, its major innovation was allowing for simultaneous use of landline calls and Internet connections.

In recent years, new systems have been able to improve upon the capabilities of ISDN. Because of this, ISDN connections are being switched off across Australia. Telstra, in cooperation with the NBN, has ceased the sale of new ISDN connections and services. Forced disconnection will start in September 2019 and will be complete by 2022.

Hosted PBX

Hosted private branch exchange (HPBX) technology uses the same principles as a PBX, but with the system hosted off the business’s premises. The service provider shoulders the operation, security and maintaining the hardware. The service runs on the provider’s servers and is delivered to end-users through the internet. Unlike the other two alternatives, it doesn’t rely on the PSTN.

Because HPBX services are delivered through the net, phone systems of this sort can be used by businesses with employees working in different locations. Desk phones and “soft phone” applications can be used with an HPBX anywhere that there’s a strong internet connection.

Comparing PSTN, ISDN and HPBX

To understand these three better, let’s take a look at them side by side.

	PSTN	ISDN	Hosted PBX
INSTALLATION	Uses established switched network infrastructure.	Uses established switched network infrastructure.	Service runs on the provider's servers and is delivered through the Internet making installation hassle-free.
	Cabling & maintenance costs can be expensive for multiple lines.	May require installation & maintenance of extension wiring to devices.
CALL CAPACITY	Lines are dedicated for one use at a time. One number per line.	Concurrent connections of combined voice & data delivered over a single line	Unlimited number of simultaneous call capacities w/o the need to install any lines.
DATA TRANSMISSION	Low bandwidth utilization.	Higher bandwidth utilization compared to PSTN.	High transmission & bandwidth utilization through packet-switched data
EASE OF CUSTOMIZATION	Can be equipped with limited call features.	Maximum of 8 devices can be attached per line.	Highly customizable—features can be added online
		Analog devices may need a terminal adapter	Analog devices may need a terminal adapter
RELIABILITY	Hardwired landlines still work during power outages.	Requires a local power supply and backup power during power outages.	Powered using PoE (Power over Ethernet)-- no need for a separate power supply.
	Average downtime totals 5 minutes a year	Provides crystal clear digital voice calls	Sound quality is dependent on a strong connection.
IMPACT ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS	Used for EFTPOS machines, elevator lines, alarm systems, and ADSL connections.	10x faster than an analog system- eliminates the need for multiple lines.	IT responsibility is removed from the users and placed on the provider.
	Recommended for guaranteed business continuity.	Requires 1 analog line for business continuity.	Encourages collaboration between multiple sites.
PORTABILITY	No mobile capabilities. Recommended for on-site operations.	No mobile capabilities. Recommended for on-site operations.	Softphones and desk phones can be used in any location w/ a strong connection
SCALABILITY	Limited scalability.	Add numbers as by purchasing additional blocks of DIDs.	Lines can be increased or reduced w/o installation.
WHO IS IT FOR?	Ideal for small businesses that require only 1-2 lines.	Ideal for businesses that require 2 to 8 lines.	Small to large businesses with a traveling sales force.
	Businesses w/ minimal local & long distance communication needs.	Businesses that require low-latency and high quality calls.	Businesses that have long-distance communication needs.
			Businesses that have geographically-dispersed sites.

Choosing a phone system

With the variety of available options, it’s easy for businesses of any size to get a phone system to suit their needs.

For advice on choosing a business phone system—especially if you’re switching out an ISDN line—get in touch with us at 1300 ALLTEL or visit our Business Phone Systems