What is a Channel?

A channel has multiple definitions depending on the context. In VoIP, it refers to a unit of measurement. This unit denotes something that is either in-use or not but represents one part of the maximum number of simultaneously in-use items.

A channel in trunking may represent the number of calls that can be handled by the system at the same time.

A channel in an IVR may represent the number of calls that can navigate the IVR simultaneously.

As an analogy, picture a house with five rooms. Each room has a lamp, connected to a light switch. Each lamp is either on, or off. Now imagine that only 3 lamps can be on at the same time. To turn on a fourth lamp, you have to turn one that is on already. In this case there are three channels.

See why 100,000 companies trust Nextiva for VoIP service.

Steve Wozniak

I'm a big fan of companies like Nextiva.

Steve Wozniak
Co-Founder of Apple

Nextiva uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content, products, and services. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy.

Trusted by millions
of users daily

G2 Rating


4.5/5

TrustPilot Rating


4.7/5

I’m a big fan of Nextiva

Steve Wozniak







We’re committed to your privacy. Nextiva uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content, products, and services. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy.

Nextiva uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content, products, and services. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy.


Close icon
Use fewer apps, get more done.

Download the NextivaONE app.

Desktop

Mobile