Switchvox Free Edition FAQ

Always wanted to try Switchvox? Now you can, for free!

What is Switchvox Free Edition?

Exactly what it sounds like! A free version of Switchvox's award-winning, Asterisk based IP PBX.

Where can I download it?

Right here.

Who is Switchvox Free Edition for?

The way we see it, anyone should be able to download and install Switchvox Free Edition. If you've thought about replacing your current PBX with something better, we think you should give Switchvox Free Edition a try. Its a great way for businesses to get started with a full-featured phone system that's easy to configure and manage.

Can I upgrade from Switchvox Free Edition to Switchvox SOHO or SMB?

Yes, absolutely! Simply purchase the Free to SMB or Free to SOHO upgrades in our online store. Once your order is complete, a button to activate the upgrade will appear in the Updates area of your Switchvox Free Edition web administration tools. Click the button and 30 seconds later, your system will be updated and none of your configuration will be changed or lost in the process.

How many user extensions can I create in Switchvox Free Edition and how many simultaneous phone calls can it make?

15 virtual, IP, or analog phone extensions can be created in Switchvox Free Edition. A virtual extension is used for employees that don't have an analog or IP phone connected to the system, like those that work remotely using their mobile phones, and they're also used for general voicemail boxes. It can handle 8 concurrent phone calls (8 people on the phone at one time).

Can I install it on my own hardware?

Yes, but if you'd like to use it in a production environment, or you suspect you might want to upgrade to a fully supported, more advanced version of Switchvox, like Switchvox SOHO or SMB, please use a server from our Certified Hardware List.

Do I need a dedicated server?

Yes! Once installed, Switchvox Free Edition will be the only software that runs on your machine, so make sure that you don't put your Switchvox Free Edition CD into a computer that has anything valuable on it because it will be over written during the installation procedure.

Which telephony interface cards are supported by Switchvox Free Edition?

All Digium TDM series cards can be used in Switchvox Free Edition.

Can I hook multiple Switchvox servers together at my branch office locations?

Yes! This will enable free calling between those locations, direct extension dialing and more!

Is Switchvox Free Edition open source?

While much of the software inside Free Edition is open source, like Asterisk, Apache, and Linux, the software that we've created to make those components work together to be a Switchvox PBX is not open source. You can download the open source components of Switchvox here.

Can I get inside and play with the underlying .conf files and stuff?

No, Switchvox Free Edition is designed to be customized through the web GUI alone. If you're interested in tinkering under the hood, we recommend checking out Asterisk® or AsteriskNOW™.