SoftPhone Options
- Last updated on May 1, 2024 at 2:57 PM
This document gives a brief overview of the different soft phone options. You may also want to read our article on how to Configure a Softphone.
Important Note: Softphones or applications that register behind a Proxy or SBC (such as ReachUC and Microsoft Teams ) are not recommended or supported for call centers agents.
To clarify, the Proxy handles registration even if the soft phone or remote application is offline. The PBX will still try to deliver calls to Proxy or SBC, varying SIP responses from the SBC will skew many call center statistics. If the agent is always online, many of the issues described above can be avoided by properly logging in and out of the queue. Keep in mind, loss of internet or a routine restart without the agent logging out will negatively impact statistics like missed calls.
SkySwitch – Attendant Console
The Attendant Console is a powerful feature connecting your PBX to a Web UI; allowing you to manage Presence, Transfers, Parking, and Queues. This is NOT a softphone but works in conjunction with your existing physical or softphone. Available upon request from SkySwitch support, please specify which on which domain/s this will be activated for.
ReachUC - Various Options
ReachUC allows users to interact with the PBX through an intuitive user interface. The app offers easy access to make calls, send/receive SMS, check voicemail, view phone and PBX contacts as well as view call history and view advanced PBX features including PBX presence.
ReachUC offers mobile apps for iPhone and Android ( These two versions are not recommended as a desk phone replacement, and are not suitable for call center needs.)
ReachUC also offers a Windows and Mac application that uses SIP messaging natively. The 'Native' SIP application is more suitable as a dedicated softphone, but like all software-based phones, they can be hindered by computer hardware or other software running on that computer.
SkySwitch – Dialplate
(Available in the SkySwitch store)
Dialplate is a Windows Only Softphone and Attendant Console Solution that can be purchased through the SkySwitch Store featuring 4-16 lines over 3 accounts. Notably, the application offers BLF extension presence to simplify reception operations. SkySwitch is not responsible for the development of the application but worked closely with Dialplate developers to ensure maximum interoperability and reskin the interface.
Product: https://skyswitch.elevio.help/en/articles/607
Installation: https://skyswitch.elevio.help/en/articles/650
Bria 5
Bria can replace or complement your desk phone, allowing you to make voice and video calls over IP, see when contacts are available, send messages and transfer files. Bria for desktop can further be enhanced with custom branding and feature options for large-scale (200+ seat) deployments.
Cons: Does not support PBX presence with SkySwitch. (BLF or Parking)
Product: https://www.counterpath.com/bria/
Installation: https://skyswitch.elevio.help/en/articles/75
Bria 5 Demo Version - XLite
Product: https://www.counterpath.com/x-lite/
Zoiper
Zoiper allows a softphone to make VoIP calls through your PBX or favorite SIP provider.
Cons: Does not support PBX presence with SkySwitch. (BLF or Parking)
Product: https://www.zoiper.com/
VOP – Voice Operator Panel
Voice Operator Panel is a professional softphone for operators and receptionists with Outlook/LDAP/XMPP/CRM integration, a built-in web browser, and an e-mailer. VOP is ideal for ITSP and IP PBX resellers who want to offer their customers an advanced software switchboard and attendant console
Pros: Full extension status monitoring (ringing, busy, available)
Cons: SkySwitch does not support XMPP at this time. DND presence is also not supported.
Product: http://www.voiceoperatorpanel.com/