ALB is a trusted 8×8 partner, covering the whole of the UK.

Powerful, flexible cloud phone systems for modern businesses.

ALB Technical Solutions supplies and supports 8x8 — a market-leading cloud communications platform trusted by thousands of UK businesses.

At ALB Tech Solutions, we provide powerful cloud-based business phone systems through our partnership with 8x8, one of the world’s leading providers of unified communications platforms.

8x8 hosted telephony allows businesses to replace traditional on-site phone systems with a modern cloud solution that works over the internet. Instead of relying on expensive PBX hardware or ISDN phone lines, your entire phone system is securely hosted in the cloud and managed through an easy-to-use platform.

This approach gives organisations the flexibility to make and receive calls from the office, at home, or on the move while maintaining a professional business presence.

Hosted phone systems are becoming the standard for modern businesses as the UK transitions away from legacy phone networks such as PSTN and ISDN. By moving to a cloud-based communications platform, businesses gain improved flexibility, scalability and access to advanced features designed for today’s digital workplace.

  • What is a hosted phone system

    An 8x8 hosted phone system is a cloud-based PBX platform that allows businesses to make and receive calls using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. Instead of connecting calls through traditional copper telephone lines, voice communications are transmitted securely over the internet.

    Because the system is hosted in the cloud, businesses no longer need to maintain expensive on-premise telephony equipment. Users simply connect using an IP desk phone, computer, or mobile device.

    This enables teams to work from anywhere while maintaining full access to their business phone system.

    Learn more

Benefits of 8x8 Cloud Telephony

Flexibility for Modern Workforces

With cloud telephony, employees are no longer tied to a physical desk phone. Calls can be made and received from multiple devices including desktop computers, mobile phones and VoIP handsets. This enables remote and hybrid working without disrupting business communications.

Advanced Communication Tools

Modern hosted systems combine voice, video conferencing and team messaging into a unified platform, making it easier for teams to collaborate internally and communicate with customers.

Scalable for Growing Businesses

Adding or removing users is simple with a cloud-based platform. Businesses can scale their communications infrastructure as their workforce grows without installing additional physical phone lines.

modern powerful futureproof

A powerful cloud-based phone system built for modern working.

8x8 gives your business a professional, reliable communication platform without the cost or complexity of traditional phone systems. Everything runs in the cloud — meaning your team can make and receive calls anywhere, on any device.

Multiple electronic devices displaying video calls, messages, and images, including a large screen with six people on a video conference, a laptop with chat messages, a tablet with a video call, and smartphones showing contacts and messages.

8X8 work

A pamphlet titled 'Cloud vs. On-Premises PBX: Understanding the Key Differences' with a photo of a man talking on the phone at a cafe. The pamphlet details comparisons between 8x8 cloud and on-premises PBX systems, including costs, flexibility, and features.
Icons representing communication methods: speech bubble, envelope, cloud with arrows, person, and telephone.

HOW WE SUPPORT YOUR 8X8 SYSTEM

We take care of everything from setup to ongoing support:

  • Number porting

  • System design

  • User setup

  • Mobile/desktop apps

  • Call flow creation

  • Onsite or remote training

  • Continued support & optimisation

We make sure your 8x8 system works exactly as your business needs.

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  • A modern, busy co-working space with students or workers studying or working on laptops at desks. The room features high ceilings, black columns, large windows, and contemporary lighting.

  • A smiling man wearing glasses with a beard and earbuds, surrounded by icons representing various social media and communication platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter, Messenger, Facebook, video, and messaging.

  • Open-plan office with multiple employees working at desks with computers, shelves with books, and large windows allowing natural light.

  • A person sitting at a desk working on a computer, with headphones, a phone, and a coffee mug on the desk, in a room with minimal decor and a white wall.

  • A digital collage of video calls, messaging, and social media icons with three people on screen: a woman with headphones, a smiling man, and a woman smiling with earrings. The central focus is a messaging platform with conversation details, contact information, and interaction logs.

Core 8x8 Work Features (Unified Communications)

📱 Voice Calling (VoIP)

  • High-quality internet calling (no traditional phone lines).

  • Unlimited domestic calling (plans may vary).

  • International calling to up to ~48 countries (depending on plan).

☎ Advanced Call Handling

  • Call transfer, forwarding, park, hold and pickup.

  • Ring groups for teams.

  • Call queues for managing incoming traffic.

  • Auto-attendant / Interactive Voice Response (IVR) menus (virtual receptionist).

  • Voicemail with notifications.

🎥 HD Video & Audio Conferencing

  • Integrated video meetings with HD audio and video.

  • Invite participants inside or outside your organisation.

  • Calendar integrations (Google / Microsoft) to schedule meetings.

💬 Team Chat & Messaging

  • 1:1 and group messaging inside the Work app.

  • File sharing in chats.

  • SMS/MMS with external numbers (depending on platform).

  • Presence status (show availability).

📊 Analytics & Reporting

  • Call volume and performance insights.

  • Interaction analytics for better customer service tracking.

  • Exportable reports for business use.

🧠 Admin & Management Tools

  • Centralised admin console for user and permissions management.

  • Supervisor features like call barge/monitor/whisper (for training/support teams).

  • Custom roles and security permissions.

📧 Voicemail Features

  • Voicemail to email options and call history tracking.

  • Some plans include voicemail transcription.

🌐 CRM & Integration Support

  • Integrates with business apps like Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, HubSpot, Google Workspace (availability varies by plan).

📁 Other Cloud Services

  • Online faxing (internet fax) with some packages.

  • Virtual numbers in other countries.

Devices & Ways to Use 8x8 Work

💻 Desktop & Web

  • 8x8 Work for Desktop app – Install on Windows or macOS for calls, messages, meetings and files.

  • Browser Version – Access the full interface on supported web browsers without installing an app.

  • Connect headsets with click-to-dial support for compatible USB headsets.

📱 Mobile Devices

  • 8x8 Work for Mobile (iOS & Android) – Full phone, chat and meeting capabilities on smartphones and tablets.

  • Group messaging (including external SMS/MMS).

  • Apps support presence status and file sharing.

📞 Desk / IP Phones

  • Compatible with a wide range of desk phones from brands like Yealink, Poly, Cisco and more.

  • Phones connect via SIP and work with your cloud account.

📟 Analog Phones (via Adapter)

  • Use an ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) to connect older analogue phones or fax machines to 8x8 Work (useful where hardware reuse is desired).

📊 Multi-Device Support

  • One user can be logged into multiple devices (e.g., phone + tablet + desktop) simultaneously.

  • Calls ring on all logged-in devices until answered.

📱 Managed Device Deployment

  • Special Android “managed devices” version ideal for retail, logistics or shared work environments managed via MDM software.

 

Why Choose ALB Tech Solutions for 8x8?

As an experienced IT and communications provider, ALB Tech Solutions helps businesses implement and manage modern cloud phone systems with minimal disruption.

Our team supports your organisation throughout the entire process, including:

  • Consultation and system design

  • Number porting from existing phone systems

  • Deployment and configuration

  • User onboarding and training

  • Ongoing technical support

By working with a trusted partner, businesses can ensure their communication systems remain reliable, secure and easy to manage.

FAQs

How long does setup take?

Every install is different, however we aim to have you up and running in within 10 business days, from the day the order is signed on the dotted line.

Can you integrate with our existing systems?

In most cases, yes. We’ll assess your current setup and advise the best approach.

How much does 8x8 cost?

8x8 has a number of different licenses available which all have set monthly costs depending on features.

Pricing starts from £10 per month.

Can you support remote or hybrid teams?

Absolutely — our solutions are built for flexible working

Is there a contract?

As standard we offer a 36 month term contract, however depending on your businesses needs we are able to offer more flexible contracts.

Do you offer ongoing support?

Yes. All our hosted phone services include ongoing support packages within the monthly cost.

Can I use 8x8 with physical desk phones, or is it app‑only?

You can use 8x8 however you prefer. Many businesses choose the mobile and desktop apps, but 8x8 also supports a wide range of physical VoIP desk phones. If you already have compatible handsets, we can often reuse them — and if not, we can supply and configure new ones. You’re free to mix and match apps and desk phones across your team.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s make your technology work smarter.

Book a free consultation today
We’ll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and recommend the best solution for your business.