Scalable VoIP and Business Solutions for Smithers Companies
North Star deploys and manages VoIP phone systems for businesses in Smithers, British Columbia. We replace outdated on-premise PBX hardware with cloud-hosted phone systems that work on any device, from anywhere. Number porting, auto-attendant configuration, and staff training are all included in the cutover. After go-live, we manage the system so you never have to deal with phone-vendor support on your own.
VoIP Phones for Smithers businesses.
A summary of what is included in our VoIP Phones service for clients in Smithers and surrounding areas.
Cloud PBX deployment.
We provision a cloud-hosted PBX with extensions, hunt groups, and ring strategies that match how your team works. Physical desk phones and softphones are both supported.
Number porting.
We port your existing business numbers to the new system so customers keep reaching you on the same numbers. The porting process is managed end-to-end with no gaps in service.
Auto-attendant and IVR setup.
We configure professional auto-attendant menus, business-hours routing, and after-hours voicemail so callers always reach the right person or a clear recorded message.
Microsoft Teams calling integration.
We connect your VoIP system to Microsoft Teams so staff can make and receive external calls from within Teams. No separate phone app required for organizations already on Microsoft 365.
Why Smithers businesses choose North Star.
What makes us the right IT partner for organizations in Smithers, British Columbia.
One vendor for phones and IT.
Managing your VoIP system alongside your IT environment means we can troubleshoot call-quality issues that cross network and system boundaries, something a standalone phone vendor cannot do.
Remote and on-site support in {CITY}.
Most VoIP issues are resolved remotely. When physical hardware needs attention in Smithers, we dispatch a technician rather than leaving you on hold with an out-of-province call centre.
Modern features, lower cost.
Cloud VoIP typically costs less per line than a traditional PBX when hardware and maintenance are factored in. We provide a cost comparison before any purchase decision.
Common questions about VoIP Phones.
What is VoIP and how is it different from a traditional phone system?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) routes phone calls over your internet connection rather than traditional phone lines. Cloud-hosted VoIP eliminates on-premise PBX hardware, reduces per-line costs, and lets staff take calls on any device from anywhere.
Can we keep our existing phone numbers?
Yes. We port your existing business numbers to the new VoIP system. The porting process takes one to two weeks and is managed so there is no gap in service during the transition.
What internet speed do we need for VoIP?
Each active call uses roughly 100 kbps of bandwidth. A 10 Mbps business internet connection can typically support 20 or more simultaneous calls with capacity to spare. We assess your connection as part of the deployment scoping.
Does VoIP work if the internet goes down?
Calls route to voicemail or mobile failover numbers during an internet outage. For organizations that need zero downtime, we can add a cellular backup connection to the deployment.
Ready to get started in Smithers?
Book a free 30-minute scoping call. We will walk through your current setup, identify gaps, and outline what a transition to North Star looks like for your team.
Get a Free Assessment Back to Smithers overviewFrequently asked questions
Can a VoIP system help my SEO Smithers ranking?
While a VoIP system does not directly influence Google's algorithms, it plays a vital role in your local SEO strategy. Accurate and consistent Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) data across the web is crucial. Our systems provide stable, dedicated local numbers that ensure your Smithers business identity remains consistent. Furthermore, features like call tracking and improved response times enhance user experience, which indirectly signals business authority to search engines.
What is the primary benefit of Business VoIP in Smithers?
The main advantage is the significant reduction in monthly costs compared to legacy copper lines. Since the system runs over your internet connection, you eliminate long distance charges between your Smithers office and other BC locations. Additionally, you gain access to enterprise-grade features like auto-attendants, mobile twinning, and voicemail-to-email, which were previously too expensive for many small businesses in the Bulkley Valley area.
Can I keep my current local Smithers phone number?
Yes, we handle the entire number porting process for you. When moving to a hosted PBX system with Northstar IT, you can retain your existing 250 area code numbers. This ensures that your long-standing business identity remains intact while you benefit from modern technology. We coordinate with your current provider to organise a smooth transition with zero downtime, so your clients can always reach your team.
Does Northstar IT offer local support for VoIP in Smithers?
Absolutely. We provide comprehensive 24/7 helpdesk support for all our Smithers clients. Unlike national providers who may leave you waiting on a generic queue, our team understands the specific infrastructure challenges of Northern BC. Whether you need to add a new extension, adjust your call routing, or troubleshoot hardware, our technicians are available to assist you immediately through our managed services platform.
Does your VoIP system integrate with Microsoft Teams?
Our VoIP solutions are designed to work harmoniously with Microsoft 365 and Teams. This allows your staff to make and receive business calls directly through their laptops or mobile devices using the Teams interface. Integration also enables shared contacts, presence indicators, and synchronised calendars. By unifying your communications, you simplify the workflow for your employees and create a more professional experience for your customers in Smithers and beyond.