Your team probably already lives in Microsoft Teams for chat and meetings. So why have a separate phone system? With Teams telephony, you can make and receive normal business phone calls - to and from any number - directly inside Teams. Here's how it works and whether it's right for you.

What is Teams telephony?

Out of the box, Teams lets you call other Teams users. Teams telephony extends that so you can call any phone number - landlines, mobiles, customers, suppliers - and receive external calls on your business numbers, all within the Teams app on your computer or mobile.

In effect, Teams becomes your phone system, replacing or complementing a traditional cloud PBX.

The ways to add calling to Teams

There are a couple of routes:

  • Microsoft Calling Plans - buy calling minutes directly from Microsoft. Simple, but not always the most cost-effective or flexible.
  • Direct Routing - connect Teams to an external telephony provider (like a hosted telephony specialist). This usually gives better call rates, more features and proper support, while keeping the familiar Teams experience.

For most businesses, Direct Routing through a specialist provider offers the best of both worlds.

The benefits

  • One app for everything - chat, meetings and calls in a single place.
  • Work from anywhere - calls follow staff on the Teams mobile and desktop apps, ideal for remote teams.
  • Familiar to staff - no new interface to learn.
  • Keeps your numbers - existing numbers port across.

Is it right for your business?

Teams telephony is a great fit if your team is already heavily invested in Microsoft 365 and Teams. If you rely on advanced call-centre features or prefer dedicated desk phones, a specialist hosted system (which can still integrate with Teams) may suit better. A good provider will help you weigh it up - one of the things worth asking when choosing a provider.

The bottom line

Bringing calling into Teams turns the tool your staff already use all day into your phone system - simple, flexible and great for distributed teams. Direct Routing through a specialist usually delivers the best value. Want to explore Teams calling for your business? Explore our Cloud Telephony service or request a callback.

Frequently asked questions

Can Microsoft Teams be used as a business phone system?

Yes. With the right setup, Teams can make and receive external calls on your business numbers, turning it into a full cloud phone system.

What are the benefits of phone and Teams integration?

Staff make calls, chat and meet in one familiar app, on any device, which simplifies communication and reduces the number of separate tools.

Do I need extra licensing to call externally in Teams?

Yes, external calling needs the right calling plan or a connection to a telephony provider. A provider can advise the most cost-effective option.