Installing Linux's Version of Vodia's IP PBX on AWS
Published on:
February 25, 2020
Vodia’s IP PBX system can be installed on 32- or 64-bit versions of CentOS, Debian and FreeBSD, with 64-bit recommended for optimal performance. During installation, users can configure port settings to avoid conflicts with other services, establish firewall rules and activate the license key via an initial internet connection. Once installed, administrators can manage the system through Linux commands, update via the web interface and even deploy on AWS for cloud-based setups. Detailed video tutorials are available to guide users through configurations like firewall settings and IP routing for smooth audio quality.
Currently, we are supporting CentOS 32- and 64-bit, Debian 32- and 64-bit and FreeBSD 64-bit versions. For new installations, we strongly recommend 64-bit operating systems. We recommend you make yourself familiar with Linux before installing the system.
In many installations, there is a service running on the standard HTTP ports (80 and 443). If you wish to continue running the service on the host, you need to assign different ports to the PBX. You can do this by editing the script /etc/init.d/pbx and adding "--http-port x" and "--https-port y" the OPTIONS variable.
The PBX needs to have access to the public Internet (https://vodia.com) for activation of the license key and for installing software updates. After the PBX has been activated and is operative, this connection isn't required anymore.
Installation
To start the installation, you need to be logged in as a system administrator to a shell (typically bash).
Download and run the install script for your operating system. Before running the install script, edit the install script and read the comments. You may choose to install different languages and make other modifications to the installation script that fit your purpose.
If you need to write a pidfile, you may do so by editing the OPTIONS variable in the installation script. You need to add "--pidfile <filename>" to the list of options.
The script will figure out automatically if you need to install 32- or 64-bit versions.
Please note you will have to configure your firewall (iptables). On CentOS6.3 and above, we needed to change the iptables setup; in Debian6 it worked without changes. Otherwise, you won't be able to access the web interface of the PBX and register phones.
After the installation you can check if the PBX is running using the following command:
ps -C pbxctrl
You can restart the service using the following command:
/etc/init.d/pbx restart
Software Updates
Once the service is installed, you can update the software through the web interface. The procedure is the same for all operating systems. It is important the executable has the name "pbxctrl" and can be moved and deleted by the PBX process.
Uninstalling the Software
You can uninstall the software by deleting the working directory of the PBX (usually /usr/local/pbx) and by deleting the script pbx in the /etc/init.d directory.
Installing Linux's Version of Vodia's IP PBX on AWS (Amazon Web Service) Instance
Vodia's IP PBX is now compatible and ready to install on the Amazon Web Service (AWS) server for the IP PBX server running a Linux/Unix Operating system. The step-by-step installation procedure, configuring the firewall, IP Routing list setup (for two way audio fluency) and adding the license and getting the PBX ready to go is been explained in great detail in the following video tutorial.
Vodia was excited to attend IT Expo 2025 in Ft. Lauderdale, where Sales Engineer Eric Altman connected with industry leaders such as Tommy Lee from Fanvil, Gary Harbeck from Dinstar, Spencer Lee from Telin, Sebastian Balan from Fidelity, Todd Weikle from Soar Communications, Steve Scott from Borderless.com, and Mitch Kahl from BCM One. The discussions highlighted the role of AI in business communications, Vodia’s Microsoft Teams-certified PBX, and our integration with Realtime AI via APIs. This event followed a strategic planning session with key partners to outline Vodia’s goals for 2025. We look forward to connecting with you at future events!
Vodia has integrated OpenAI’s Realtime API with its PBX, enabling real-time AI-powered hotel phone systems that enhance guest services. By leveraging natural speech processing, guests can make reservations, request services, and access hotel amenities in multiple languages - all through voice commands. This integration streamlines hotel operations, reduces staff workload, and improves guest satisfaction. Whether booking a room, ordering room service, or arranging transportation, AI-powered phone systems provide seamless communication and efficiency. Hotels can now offer personalized, automated experiences while maintaining reliable, high-quality service.
ConnectPlus, a fictional call center with 150 agents and 20 support team members, faced several challenges in managing its phone systems and customer interactions. The company struggled with inefficient call routing, long wait times, and inadequate reporting, especially as it relied on Microsoft Teams for internal communication. To improve operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience, ConnectPlus sought a solution that could streamline its processes across multiple devices and platforms. Integrating Vodia’s PBX with Teams provided the ideal solution, optimizing their call handling and overall communication capabilities.
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