What are VoIP Gateways?
What are VoIP Gateways?
VoIP Gateways allow you to use standard PSTN lines (Analog, BRI or E1/T1 PRI lines) with 3CX. There is no need to use a VoIP provider – if you have a good telecoms provider PSTN lines can still provide a very reliable service.
Many businesses are upgrading from legacy phone systems to modern VoIP setups. But replacing everything at once can be disruptive and costly. VoIP Gateways offer a middle ground – converting IP-based traffic to PSTN-compatible audio – allowing IT teams to modernize in stages.
A VoIP gateway can help you get the modern advantages of a VoIP system, whilst still benefiting from the familiarity of your existing devices and equipment. Keep reading to find out more:
Why use a VoIP gateway?
- Migrate in Phases – Keep your existing hardware to stagger the cost of your migration.
- Use Familiar Equipment – Reduce training and setup times, staff retain their existing devices.
- Convert Incoming PSTN Lines to VoIP/SIP – Make and receive calls using the PSTN network.
- Call using a VoIP service provider – Reduce interoffice costs by routing the calls via the Internet.

What types of VoIP gateways are there?
- Analog units – Analog units are used to connect regular analog phone lines to the gateway. Analog units are available for between 2-24 lines.
- Digital units –Â Digital units allow you to connect digital lines, either one or more BRI ISDN lines (Europe), one or more PRI/E1 lines (Europe) or one or more T1 lines (USA).
VoIP gateway manufacturers
There’s a great selection of VoIP gateways available today, and as demand has increased, prices have decreased considerably. Analog VoIP gateways start at a very low price!
- Grandstream GXW4216, GXW4224, GXW4232, GXW4248 FXS
- Grandstream HT801, HT802, HT812, HT814, HT818 FXS
- Grandstream GXW4104 FXO
- Patton Smartnode 4112, 4114 FXO
- Patton SmartNode 4141 FXO
- Patton SmartNode 200, 4141 FXS
- Patton Smartnode 4112, 4114 FXS
- Patton Smartnode 4171, 4940, 4950, 4960, 4970, 4980, 4990 – T1 (1 or 4 port)
- Patton Smartnode 4171, 4940, 4950, 4960, 4970, 4980, 4990 – E1 (1 or 4 port)