How to Set Up Call Forwarding on Your VoIP System
How do I forward calls to another number?
Overview
Call forwarding is one of the most essential features of any VoIP system. It ensures you never miss important calls by automatically routing them to another phone number when you're unavailable.
Whether you need to forward calls to your mobile phone, a colleague, or an external number, this guide will walk you through the setup process step by step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Access Your VoIP Admin Portal
Log in to your VoIP provider's admin portal or web dashboard. This is typically accessible through your provider's website using your admin credentials.
If you don't have admin access, contact your system administrator to either grant you permissions or set up call forwarding on your behalf.
- •Bookmark your admin portal URL for quick access
- •Use a password manager to store your credentials securely
Navigate to Call Settings
Look for the "Call Settings," "Call Routing," or "Forwarding" section in your dashboard. This is usually found under:
- Settings > Call Management
- User Settings > Call Forwarding
- Phone System > Call Routing
- •The exact location varies by provider, so check their help docs if needed
- •Some systems allow per-user settings vs. company-wide settings
Enable Call Forwarding
Toggle the call forwarding option to "On" or "Enabled." You'll then see options to configure where calls should be forwarded.
Most systems offer different forwarding types:
- Forward All Calls: Every call goes to the forwarding number
- Forward When Busy: Only forwards when you're on another call
- Forward When Unanswered: Forwards after a specified number of rings
- Forward When Offline: Only forwards when you're not logged in
Enter the Forwarding Number
Type in the phone number where you want calls forwarded. Make sure to include:
- Country code (e.g., +1 for US/Canada)
- Area code
- Full phone number
Example: +1-555-123-4567
Most systems will validate the number format before saving.
- •Test with your mobile number first to ensure it works
- •Some providers charge for forwarding to external numbers
Set Forwarding Rules (Optional)
Configure advanced options like:
- Time-based forwarding: Different numbers for business hours vs. after hours
- Conditional forwarding: Based on caller ID or specific conditions
- Sequential forwarding: Try multiple numbers in order
These advanced features help ensure calls reach the right person at the right time.
- •Set up after-hours forwarding to voicemail or an answering service
- •Use sequential forwarding for important client calls
Test Your Configuration
Call your VoIP number from a different phone to verify the forwarding works correctly. Check:
- Does the call forward to the right number?
- Is there any delay in the forwarding?
- Does it ring for the expected number of times before forwarding?
Make any necessary adjustments and test again until it works perfectly.
- •Test during different times if using time-based rules
- •Have a colleague test from different types of phones (mobile, landline)
Common Issues & Solutions
Calls not forwarding at all
Verify the forwarding number format includes the country code and area code. Also check that call forwarding is actually enabled (toggle switched to On). Some providers require you to save settings before they take effect.
Forwarding works but has poor call quality
This often happens when forwarding to a mobile network with weak signal. Try forwarding to a landline or different mobile carrier. Also check if your VoIP provider has quality-of-service settings you can adjust.
Cannot forward to international numbers
Many VoIP providers restrict international forwarding by default due to cost. Contact your provider to enable international forwarding, but be aware this may incur additional charges.
Forwarding creates a loop or echo
This happens when the forwarding number tries to forward back to the original number. Make sure your forwarding destination doesn't have its own forwarding rules that could create a loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does call forwarding cost extra?
It depends on your provider and plan. Forwarding to numbers within your VoIP system is usually free. Forwarding to external numbers (especially mobile or international) may incur per-minute charges. Check your provider's pricing.
Can I forward to multiple numbers at once?
Yes, this is called "simultaneous ring" or "ring all." It makes multiple phones ring at the same time, and the first one to answer gets the call. This feature is available in most modern VoIP systems.
Will callers know their call is being forwarded?
No, call forwarding is transparent to the caller. They dial your VoIP number and get connected to wherever you forward it, without knowing the call was forwarded.
Can I temporarily disable forwarding?
Yes, most systems let you toggle forwarding on/off easily through the admin portal, mobile app, or by dialing a code (like *73 to enable, *74 to disable). Check your provider's documentation for specific codes.
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