Horizon Hosted Telephony: A Flexible Phone System for Modern Businesses
Business communication has changed. Teams may work from the office, at home or across several locations, while customers still expect calls to be answered promptly. Horizon hosted telephony offers a way to manage business calls using a cloud-based phone system, rather than relying solely on traditional on-site equipment.
What is Horizon hosted telephony?
Horizon is a hosted business telephone service from Gamma. The phone system is managed in the cloud, with users connecting through compatible desk phones and, depending on their setup, computer or mobile applications. Because much of the system’s core technology is hosted by the provider, businesses do not need to maintain a traditional telephone exchange on their own premises.
Users can make and receive business calls using their assigned numbers, while administrators manage settings such as call routing and user access. The available features depend on the service package and configuration.
How can it help a business?
Support for flexible working
Hosted telephony can make it easier for employees to stay reachable when they are away from the office. Calls can be directed to different users or locations according to business requirements, helping teams maintain a consistent point of contact.
More flexible call handling
Features such as call forwarding, hunt groups, voicemail and auto-attendants can help businesses manage incoming calls. For example, a call can be directed to a team, routed to another person when a colleague is unavailable, or guided through a menu to the right department.
Room to grow
A hosted system can be adjusted as a business changes. Adding users, changing call flows or supporting a new location may be simpler than making major changes to an on-site telephone system. The exact process and costs depend on the provider agreement and the services selected.
Less on-site equipment to manage
With the telephone platform hosted remotely, a business may have less exchange equipment to maintain at its premises. Compatible handsets and a reliable network connection are still important, and the provider or installer can advise on the equipment needed.
What should you consider before switching?
Horizon hosted telephony relies on a suitable internet connection and a well-configured network. Before moving, assess broadband capacity, Wi-Fi coverage and the effect that an internet or power outage could have on calling. It is also worth discussing backup arrangements, emergency calling, number porting and any contract or installation requirements with your supplier.
Consider how your team currently handles calls, too. Mapping out opening hours, departments, call queues and out-of-hours arrangements can help ensure the new setup reflects the way your business works.
Is Horizon right for your business?
Horizon may be worth considering if your organisation wants a business phone system that can support multiple users or locations, offer flexible call handling and adapt as working arrangements change. The best choice will depend on your call volumes, features, connectivity and budget.
Before making a decision, compare the available packages and ask a provider to explain what is included, how the system will be configured and what support is available. A well-planned setup can help your team make the most of hosted telephony and provide a smoother experience for callers.
Horizon Hosted Telephony: 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Horizon hosted telephony?
- How does Horizon hosted telephony work?
- What features are included with Horizon hosted telephony?
- Can I use Horizon hosted telephony when working from home?
- What equipment do I need to use Horizon hosted telephony?
- Does Horizon hosted telephony require an internet connection?
- Can I keep my existing business phone numbers when switching to Horizon?
- How much does Horizon hosted telephony cost?
- How do I get support if Horizon hosted telephony is not working?
What is Horizon hosted telephony?
Horizon hosted telephony is a cloud-based business phone system from Gamma. Instead of relying on a traditional telephone exchange on your premises, calls and phone features are managed through a hosted platform and accessed using compatible desk phones or supported apps. It can help businesses manage calls across teams and locations, with features such as call routing, voicemail and call forwarding depending on the package and configuration.
How does Horizon hosted telephony work?
Horizon hosted telephony works by running your business phone system in the cloud, rather than through an exchange at your premises. Calls are managed online and routed to your team using compatible desk phones or supported computer and mobile apps. You can configure features such as call forwarding, hunt groups and voicemail to suit the way your business handles calls. A reliable internet connection is important, and the exact features available depend on your Horizon package and setup.
What features are included with Horizon hosted telephony?
Horizon hosted telephony can include features such as call forwarding and transfer, voicemail, hunt groups, auto-attendants and options for handling calls outside business hours. Depending on the package and configuration, users may also be able to manage calls through desktop or mobile apps and see colleagues’ availability. The features available can vary, so check with your provider which options are included in your service.
Can I use Horizon hosted telephony when working from home?
Yes, Horizon hosted telephony can support working from home, allowing employees to make and receive business calls away from the office using compatible devices and a suitable internet connection. Depending on your setup, you may be able to use a desk phone, computer or mobile app. Your provider can confirm which options are available and help configure call routing so you stay connected to colleagues and customers.
What equipment do I need to use Horizon hosted telephony?
To use Horizon hosted telephony, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and compatible equipment, such as an IP desk phone. Depending on your setup, you may also be able to make and receive calls using a computer or mobile device with the relevant app, often alongside a headset. Your exact requirements will depend on the features and configuration you choose, so check device compatibility and any network or power requirements with your Horizon provider.
Does Horizon hosted telephony require an internet connection?
Yes. Horizon hosted telephony uses an internet connection to carry calls and connect your phones to the hosted service, so a reliable connection is important for call quality and availability. The bandwidth required will depend on how many people make calls at the same time and how your network is configured. If your internet connection fails, calling may be disrupted, so ask your provider about suitable backup options and how emergency calls are handled.
Can I keep my existing business phone numbers when switching to Horizon?
In most cases, you can keep your existing business phone numbers when switching to Horizon by asking your provider to arrange number porting. Eligibility can depend on your numbers, location and current provider, so confirm this before proceeding. Don’t cancel your existing phone service until the port has been completed, and agree a transfer date with your provider to help minimise disruption.
How much does Horizon hosted telephony cost?
The cost of Horizon hosted telephony depends on the number of users, the features and call packages you choose, and whether you need handsets, setup or other services. Pricing can also vary between providers and contract terms. For an accurate quote, share your requirements with a Horizon supplier and ask what is included, including any one-off charges and ongoing fees.
How do I get support if Horizon hosted telephony is not working?
If Horizon hosted telephony is not working, contact your service provider or your organisation’s IT support team, who can check for service issues and help diagnose the problem. Explain what is happening, when it started and whether it affects one user or several; it may also help to note any error messages and check your internet connection and handset power. If you cannot make calls, use an alternative phone and follow your organisation’s procedures for urgent or emergency calls.
Tags: auto-attendants, business communications, business phone system, call forwarding, call handling, call routing, cloud-based phone system, desk phones, emergency calling, flexible working, gamma, horizon hosted telephony, hosted business telephone service, hosted telephony, hunt groups, internet connection, mobile applications, multiple locations, number porting, telephone system migration, voicemail