What Is Webex Calling? Overview Of Cisco’s Cloud Phone System

As more organizations embrace remote and hybrid work models, the need for reliable, flexible, and scalable communication solutions has never been more important. The days of traditional office setups — with fixed landlines and on-premises phone systems — are quickly fading as employees are now spread across various locations, working from home, in co-working spaces, or even while traveling. Naturally, with this shift comes a dire need for a communication solution that’s as adaptable and mobile as the workforce itself.  

Enter Webex Calling, Cisco's modern, cloud-based phone system designed to meet all the demands of today’s dynamic work environment.

But what exactly is Webex Calling, and how can it transform the way your organization communicates? Let’s dive in and explore how this innovative solution can ensure everyone stays connected, no matter where they are. 

So, What Is Webex Calling? 

At its core, Cisco Webex Calling is a cloud-based phone system designed to bring all your business communications together in one place. It’s part of Cisco’s broader suite of collaboration tools, meaning it doesn’t just handle your voice calls — it integrates seamlessly with a plethora of other Webex features.  

What Exactly Is a Webex Call? 

When we talk about a Webex call, we’re referring to a voice call made through the Webex Calling system. Unlike traditional phone calls, these calls are made using the internet, thanks to Cisco’s robust cloud infrastructure. Moreover, Webex Calling is part of a unified communications platform that ensures high-quality voice calls and lets you easily switch to other Webex features like the Webex softphone app, team chats, video conferencing, and so much more! 

What Devices Can You Use With Webex Calling? 

One of the great things about Cisco Webex Calling is how versatile it is. You can make and receive calls using a wide range of devices. Whether you prefer a traditional desk phone, a mobile app on your smartphone, or a Webex softphone on your computer, Webex Calling has you covered. This flexibility is especially valuable in today’s work environment, where employees might be working from the office one day and from home the next. 

Which Phones Work With Webex Calling? 

Speaking of devices, Webex Calling is compatible with a variety of IP phones and desk phones, particularly Webex phones from Cisco. However, that’s not to say that it’s just limited to Cisco products. Here are some of the more prominent certified devices that will allow you to take full advantage of the Webex cloud environment: 

• Cisco IP Phones: As part of the Cisco ecosystem, Webex Calling is optimized for use with Cisco’s range of IP phones. Popular models include the Cisco 6800, 7800, and 8800 Series IP phones. Each series caters to different business needs, from basic calling features to advanced models with video capabilities and programmable keys.

• Third-Party Certified Phones: Besides Cisco-branded devices, Webex Calling also supports a select range of third-party IP phones. However, these devices must be certified to ensure they meet Cisco’s performance standards and integrate smoothly with the Webex Calling platform.

• Analog Telephone Adapters (ATAs): For businesses that need to integrate legacy analog phones or fax machines into the Webex Calling system, Cisco is proud to offer Analog Telephone Adapters (ATAs). These devices convert analog signals into IP, allowing traditional phones and other analog devices to connect to the Webex Calling platform. ATAs are particularly useful for organizations that are transitioning to a cloud-based Webex phone system but need to maintain support for older hardware.

How Does the Cisco Cloud Phone System Work? 

The Cisco cloud phone system operates entirely in the cloud. With this system, you can finally say goodbye to bulky on-premises PBX hardware that’s expensive and difficult to manage. Instead, the Cisco Webex phone system, via Webex Calling, is here to offer you a cloud-based infrastructure that’s easy to scale and manage. Need to add new users? No problem. Want to expand to a new office? Webex Calling can handle it without the hassle of even needing to set up new hardware! 

What Features Does Webex Calling Offer? 

Webex Calling offers a robust suite of features:

• Call Management: You get advanced features for handling calls, such as call forwarding, call queuing, and more.

• Voicemail and Transcription: Not only do you get voicemail, but you can also have your messages transcribed to text in an instant.

• Call Recording: Easily record calls for compliance, training, or review purposes.

• Integration with Webex Teams: With just a quick click, transition from a call to a team meeting or chat, all within the Webex platform!

How Is Webex Calling Set Up? 

Behind the scenes, Webex Calling is powered by a cloud-based architecture that uses Cisco’s global data centers to manage call traffic and services. What does this mean for you? Well, it means high reliability, great scalability, and constant peace of mind knowing your Cisco cloud PBX communication system is always up-to-date and secure! And as a bonus, the cloud-based setup also makes it easy for your IT team to manage and scale the system as your business grows. 

Managing Group Calls with Webex Calling 

For businesses that rely on group communication, the Cisco Webex phone system, through Webex Calling, offers robust group call management features: 

• Call Routing: With advanced call routing options, you can ensure incoming calls reach the right team or individual based on the rules you set up. Whether it's time-of-day routing, geographic routing, or other customizable options, Webex Calling ensures calls are directed where they need to go.

• Conference Calling: Need to get multiple people on a call? Webex Calling makes conference calling easy, allowing teams to collaborate in real time! Additionally, participants can join from a variety of devices, so everyone can be part of the conversation, no matter where they are.

• Group Call Settings: Administrators have full control over group call settings, such as permissions, call recording, and other features that help keep group calls organized and effective. This will help ensure that your group communications are seamless and always tailored to your business’s immediate needs.

What’s New in Webex Calling? 

Cisco is always working to improve Webex Calling, rolling out regular updates that add new features and enhance the user experience. Recent updates have brought better security, tighter integration with other Webex tools, and an even more user-friendly interface. You can rest assured knowing Cisco’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that Webex Calling always stays at the cutting edge of business communication technology.

Who Owns Webex? 

Webex is owned by Cisco Systems, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity. Cisco acquired Webex in 2007 and has since integrated it into its comprehensive suite of collaboration tools, making it a key part of its vision for the future of work.

How Does a Webex Call Actually Work? 

A Webex call routes voice traffic over the internet through Cisco’s Webex cloud infrastructure. This setup handles everything from call setup and management to termination, ensuring that every call is high-quality and reliable. And by operating in the Cisco cloud PBX, Webex Calling takes the complexity out of making and receiving calls, no matter where you are. 

Webex vs. Webex Calling: What’s the Difference? 

It’s easy to get a little confused between Webex and Webex Calling. You can think of it this way: Webex is a full suite of collaboration tools that includes video conferencing, team messaging, and more. Webex Calling, on the other hand, is specifically focused on voice calls. So, while Webex Calling is an integral part of the Webex ecosystem, it’s specialized for handling your business’s communication needs. 

Is Webex a Phone Call or a Video Call? 

Webex is versatile as it handles both phone calls and video conferencing. Webex Calling is all about voice calls, while Webex Meetings and Webex Teams focus more on video conferencing and team collaboration. 

Webex Calling vs. Zoom Calling: What’s the Difference? 

When comparing Webex Calling to Zoom Calling, it’s important to note the different focuses of each platform. Webex Calling is part of a broader suite of collaboration tools, offering a more unified approach to communication within Cisco’s ecosystem. Zoom Calling, meanwhile, is primarily centered around video and voice communication within the Zoom platform. Your choice might depend on what other tools your business is already using and what you need from your communication system. 

Why Call Analytics Is Important for Webex Calling 

Leveraging advanced communication tools like Webex Calling is practically non-negotiable if you want to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. But it’s also important to remember that having the right tools is only part of the equation. To truly maximize their potential, you must also understand how effectively they’re being used. This is where call analytics come into play. 

• Better Resource Management: Call analytics show you when your call volumes peak so you can adjust your staffing levels accordingly. This means you’ll always be prepared for busy times and can handle customer inquiries more efficiently.

• Improved Call Quality: By keeping an eye on call quality metrics, you can spot and fix issues that might affect your communications, like unclear audio or dropped calls. Addressing these problems quickly can help you maintain a high service standard.

• Enhanced Performance Tracking: Detailed analytics let you see just how well your team is performing. Not only does this help you identify your top performers, but it’ll also show areas where additional training might be needed, and help you set goals for future improvement.

• Compliance Made Easy: And for businesses that need to adhere to regulations, call recordings and analytics are here to help ensure you’re meeting all requirements.

Check out Variphy Reporting and Analytics for Webex Calling 

If you're looking to enhance your communication strategy with a cutting-edge solution like Webex Calling, we're here to help you make the most of it. Here at Variphy, our comprehensive Reporting and Analytics for Webex Calling solution is ready to provide the insights you need to optimize your communication systems and stay ahead in today’s dynamic work environment. Whether you want to boost call quality, improve resource management, or get detailed performance tracking, our expertise is here to guide you every step of the way. Connect with us today, and together, let’s transform the way you communicate.