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FreePBX vs FusionPBX
October 07, 2024 | Author: Adam Levine
13★
FreePBX is a web-based open source GUI (graphical user interface) that controls and manages Asterisk (PBX), an open source communication server. FreePBX is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), an open source license.
9★
FusionPBX can be used as a highly available single or domain based multi-tenant PBX, carrier grade switch, call center server, fax server, voip server, voicemail server, conference server, voice application server, appliance framework and more. FreeSWITCH™ is a highly scalable, multi-threaded, multi-platform communication platform.
FreePBX and FusionPBX, though both proudly calling themselves open-source VoIP systems, approach the business of telephonic wizardry in slightly different ways, much like trying to choose between a spaceship with a manual or one with a bewildering number of buttons that does slightly more than you actually need, but only if you’re willing to read the instructions. FreePBX, for instance, is like the spaceship with a nice big “Start Here” button and a friendly voice telling you not to panic. It comes with a user-friendly, web-based interface so even those who’ve barely mastered the art of resetting their routers can manage it. FusionPBX, on the other hand, feels a bit like staring at a starship’s control panel that assumes you already know what a “flux compensator” does. It’s flexible, yes, but only if you’ve brought your toolkit and a sturdy sense of determination.
Now, where things get interesting is when you look at development and community support. FreePBX has the advantage of belonging to a family — a large and relatively well-to-do family named Sangoma, known for their tendency to regularly feed the system with updates and bug fixes, much like a loving gardener tending to an exotic plant. The community is large, the forums buzzing with life and there’s always someone on hand with a watering can or a patch for that odd bit of code. FusionPBX, meanwhile, has a smaller crowd gathered around it, perhaps more akin to a devoted fan club of enthusiasts tinkering with their beloved creation, though not quite with the same resources or pace.
Lastly, there's the issue of features, those little extras that can make or break a system. FreePBX, in typical style, offers a sprawling buffet of modules—CRM integration, call recording and enough third-party add-ons to make a spreadsheet blush. FusionPBX does offer some tasty morsels, but with fewer chefs in the kitchen, the selection can feel a bit more... curated, shall we say? So, if you’re looking for something specific, it’s probably best to check the menu before you pick your dining option, lest you find yourself wishing for more condiments than are readily available.
See also: Top 10 Business Phone systems
Now, where things get interesting is when you look at development and community support. FreePBX has the advantage of belonging to a family — a large and relatively well-to-do family named Sangoma, known for their tendency to regularly feed the system with updates and bug fixes, much like a loving gardener tending to an exotic plant. The community is large, the forums buzzing with life and there’s always someone on hand with a watering can or a patch for that odd bit of code. FusionPBX, meanwhile, has a smaller crowd gathered around it, perhaps more akin to a devoted fan club of enthusiasts tinkering with their beloved creation, though not quite with the same resources or pace.
Lastly, there's the issue of features, those little extras that can make or break a system. FreePBX, in typical style, offers a sprawling buffet of modules—CRM integration, call recording and enough third-party add-ons to make a spreadsheet blush. FusionPBX does offer some tasty morsels, but with fewer chefs in the kitchen, the selection can feel a bit more... curated, shall we say? So, if you’re looking for something specific, it’s probably best to check the menu before you pick your dining option, lest you find yourself wishing for more condiments than are readily available.
See also: Top 10 Business Phone systems
