Feature codes are the short keypad shortcuts that make a PBX fast to use: a few keys to pick up a colleague’s ringing phone, forward your calls or check voicemail. This guide explains how feature codes, speed dials and shared directories work on an IP PBX, and how to roll them out so staff actually use them.
What are PBX feature codes?
A feature code is a short sequence, usually starting with * or #, that you dial on any extension to use a built-in feature instead of calling a number. Because they work from any phone, including analog phones on a gateway, feature codes are the universal way to use PBX features.
Common features controlled by codes
| Feature | What it does |
|---|---|
| Call pickup | Answer a phone ringing nearby from your own phone |
| Call forwarding | Send your calls to another extension or number |
| Voicemail | Listen to your messages |
| Other built-in features | As enabled on your system, each with its own code |
Queues, conferences and paging have their own numbers, set up with those features.
Managing feature codes in Voxdial
In Voxdial IP PBX, feature codes are grouped by feature area. For each code an administrator can:
- Keep the default or tick Customize to set your own code, using digits, * and #.
- Turn the feature on or off for the whole system.
- See the original default at any time, and reset to it by unticking Customize.
Changes save immediately. If a custom code clashes with an existing one, it is refused, so codes never overlap.
Call pickup groups
Extensions can be placed in call groups and pickup groups, so staff pick up calls ringing within their own team, for example only within accounts, rather than anywhere in the building.
Speed dials
Speed dials are short, system-wide codes for full outside numbers: a branch, a key supplier or a service engineer. Choose codes that do not clash with extension numbers or feature codes, and keep a name on each one so the list stays readable.
Shared directories
- Address book: a shared contact list. Contacts can carry a VIP level from 1 to 9, so known important callers get priority when they reach a call queue. Import and export the list as CSV.
- Quick contacts: a shared directory call centre agents can dial with one click, by category, imported from CSV.
Rolling out feature codes
- Decide which features your team needs; switch off the rest.
- Keep codes consistent with your old EPABX if staff already know them.
- Print a one-page card for each desk with the five codes people use most.
- Train reception and team leads first; they spread it.
- Program frequently used codes onto IP phone keys during auto provisioning.
Read more about everyday PBX features in ring groups and follow me and the full IP PBX features list. Book a demo.
FAQs
What is a feature code on a PBX?
A short code, usually starting with * or #, dialled on any extension to use a PBX feature such as call pickup, call forwarding or voicemail.
Can I change the default feature codes?
In Voxdial, yes. Tick Customize next to a code to set your own; the system refuses codes that clash with existing ones.
What is call pickup?
Call pickup lets you answer a phone ringing nearby from your own extension. Pickup groups limit this to your own team.
What is a speed dial on a PBX?
A short system-wide code that dials a full outside number, so staff do not have to remember or type long numbers.
