All office phone systems are going to vary in price, depending on their features and versatility.   But today’s phones for small companies can be just as effective as any large company’s phone system, and you can absolutely set up your own business phones with ease, provided you’ve got some patience and time, and are willing to follow instructions.
Here’s what to plan for:

1. Get Wired:  If possible, locate the blueprint for your office to identify any pipes and other wiring before you start installing your network cabling. Or, use existing wiring from a previous system for cost efficiency.

2. Determine the main location for your phone system, and establish a direct path for all lines to the main hub or control unit. Be sure to use only phone wire, ideally 24-guage, ‘twisted-pair,’ level 3, 5, or 6 wire.
3. If you have existing wire from a previous installation, contact your phone system provider to see if they have phones that will simply install to that existing wire. Then all you need to do is plug in the phones.

4. Use a wire stripper, needle-nose pliers, and a punch down tool to install the jacks. There are color code guide charts you can purchase to help make sure you are looping and connecting wires properly.

5. Programming your system: Follow the instructions included in your phone system packaging very closely.  Set up ring-tones, caller IDs, and other features once you’ve installed your system.

6.  Be aware of and track your business phones warranty and service plan closely.  Some companies may charge you extra if you attempt to put in your own system after purchase.

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