Swyxware is software that lets you build an IP PBX (private branch exchange) using an industry-standard PC running Microsoft Windows. A highly scalable and modular solution, we tried the new Swyxware Compact implementation – an all-in-one package, designed to give small businesses everything they need to use their own PBX.

As it’s limited to 10 users, you don’t need a server operating system for Swyxware Compact. Windows XP Professional is fine, although you can use the Windows 2000 and 2003 server editions if preferred.

You may also want to install one or more ISDN cards (BRI or PRI) to make and receive calls over the public switched telephone network (PSTN). However, they’re not absolutely necessary as the software supports the use of Sip-based (Session Initiation Protocol) services to connect to the outside world.

Installation was straightforward. The Microsoft .Net Framework 2.0 needs to be in place as does an SQL Server database, but both are included with a unified setup program to get everything loaded.

Administration is achieved using a local or remote plug-in for the Microsoft Management Console (MMC), which has lots of wizards to help with the configuration of users, line setup, calling restrictions, phone preferences and so on.

However, there’s quite a lot that needs to be done and a fair amount of telecoms knowledge is assumed – something not usually found in most small businesses. We would strongly recommend specialist installation via a Swyx partner, who could also advise on client handsets.

Phones aren’t included but you can buy a range of Swyx-branded IP handsets, USB phones, headsets and Dect phones for use with the package. Alternatively, it’s possible to use Swyxware with any Sip-compatible or H.323 device, including softphones running on PCs.

Two external lines are supported out of the box with up to 10 possible through a licence upgrade. There’s shared fax support too and basic conferencing for up to six participants per conference. Although limited to 10 extensions, Swyxware Compact offers most of the major call-handling features of the full package.

Users can put calls on hold, play hold music, transfer calls to other numbers, forward calls automatically and so on. Global and personal phone books can be configured, hunt groups set up, plus you get extensive call-logging features.

Voicemail is another standard option. An SMTP mail server is required for this to work, but it doesn’t have to be Exchange or a highly specified system. Users can record their own outgoing messages with voicemails either sent as email attachments or accessed via a handset. Those using the SwyxIt Softphone can also record conversations – useful for training and to help resolve disputes.

A CTI (computer telephony integration) module provides software integration with, for example, facilities to dial numbers directly from an Outlook contacts folder. Finally, through the use of a graphical extended call-routing tool, it’s possible to implement automated call-handling routines – “Press one for sales” and so on.

We found it to be a comprehensive and flexible solution which, unlike a lot of alternatives, doesn’t require dedicated hardware. It works well and is easy to manage once everything is configured.

On the downside it’s expensive, particularly compared with open-source alternatives, and where you have fewer than 10 users.