Asterisk is an open-source software solution serving as a telephone PRX (private branch exchange). Originally created in 1999, the software now falls under both the GPL GNU General Public License as free software, and a proprietary licensed version used for distribution by providers. The system allows, when combined with an asterisks predictive dialer for telephone communication between units stations on the network in addition to communication with telephones outside the local network. This is highly desirable in business application, where you see a lot of inter-office communication and transferring of calls.

Implementing an Asterisk-based PBX in your office can be a difficult task. Many third-party providers have come along providing turn-key services to install and maintain Asterisk on-site setup, as well as off-site hosted versions. The providers can help launch a system in a relatively short amount of time.

Asterisk phone systems generally run on a linux server, although ports have been made to run on other operating systems such as MAC and Windows. Linux is generally the most supported and up-to-date versions and is the most common implementation.

Asterisk PBX systems are highly desirable because the software is open-source, reliable, and readily supported. Getting Asterisks installed and asterisk support at your office can save you time and money as opposed to a traditional landline setup. A proper install will help you benefit from all asterisk features.