Asterisk

Self-Hosted

Open-source PBX platform for voice, video, and SIP communications

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Overview

Asterisk is a robust open-source private branch exchange (PBX) enabling voice, video, and SIP-based communication. It supports call routing, voicemail, conferencing, IVR, and WebRTC integration. Deployable on Linux servers (or via Docker for simplified setup), it scales from small businesses to enterprises. Extendable via modules (e.g., SMS, call recording), it works with standard SIP devices (phones, softphones). Ideal for self-hosted teams needing full control over their communication infrastructure without proprietary lock-in.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE 

version: '3'
services:
  asterisk:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: asterisk
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

  • SIP & VoIP call management
  • IVR, conferencing, and voicemail
  • WebRTC and video support
  • Module-based extensibility
  • Integration with standard SIP devices

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Asterisk hard to install?

Asterisk can be installed via Linux package managers (e.g., apt, yum) or Docker images for simplified setup. Basic installation is straightforward, but configuring advanced features (like IVR or call routing) requires familiarity with CLI or text-based config files.

? Is it a good alternative to proprietary PBX systems like Cisco UC?

Yes—Asterisk offers core PBX features (call routing, conferencing, voicemail) at no cost, with full customization. While proprietary systems have more out-of-the-box enterprise tools, Asterisk is ideal for teams wanting self-hosted control and lower long-term costs.

? Is Asterisk completely free?

Asterisk itself is open-source and free to use. However, you may incur costs for SIP trunks (to connect to public phone networks), SIP hardware/softphones, or server hosting (if using a cloud provider instead of on-premises).

Top Alternatives

Cisco Unified Communications Manager Search Google
Avaya IP Office Search Google
Microsoft Teams Phone Search Google

People Also Ask about Asterisk

Asterisk vs Cisco Unified Communications ManagerAsterisk vs Avaya IP OfficeAsterisk vs Microsoft Teams Phone Asterisk 2025 review Asterisk docker-compose example

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source
Category Communication - SIP
Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

  • ⊕ Full control over communication data
  • ⊕ Zero licensing costs
  • ⊕ Highly customizable via modules
  • ⊕ Scalable for small to enterprise use

Cons

  • ⊖ Steep learning curve for advanced configuration
  • ⊖ Requires Linux server management skills
  • ⊖ Limited native graphical UI (mostly CLI/text files)

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