Lots of enterprise telecom folks are shifting their on-premise pbx system to cloud-based Webex Calling. Of course, one big question is: what about all the hardware? (And all the money you've already invested in it!)
Turns out, some devices can actually work with both. Is your device ready to make the leap? Let's find out.
Most Cisco phones used on-premise (CUCM) run Enterprise Firmware. To work with Webex Calling, these phones usually need to be converted to Multiplatform Firmware (MPP). Check your model's eligibility for the Cloud Upgrader tool before assuming it's "plug-and-play."
Webex Calling devices are physical communication endpoints that are certified or supported for use with Cisco Webex Calling. These devices connect directly to the Webex Calling cloud service and must meet specific hardware, firmware, and security requirements. Supported devices typically include desk phones, conference phones, DECT handsets, and analog telephone adapters (ATAs).
| Device Type | Primary Use Case | Video Support |
|---|---|---|
| Desk Phones | Individual voice calling (Offices, cubicles) | Select Models (8845/8865) |
| Webex Room/Desk Series | High-end collaboration & video conferencing | Native 4K/HD Video |
| Conference Phones | Group audio meetings (Meeting rooms) | Audio Only |
| DECT & Wireless | Mobile voice (Warehouses, healthcare) | Audio Only |
| ATAs | Legacy analog (Fax, paging systems) | N/A |
Looking for the perfect desk phone for Webex Calling? These Cisco models are right for you:
Expansion Modules: For receptionists, the Cisco 8800 and 6800 series support Key Expansion Modules (sidecars) to add extra programmable buttons for monitoring lines.
For modern offices, Cisco’s integrated collaboration devices offer a premium Webex Calling experience:
For meeting rooms that demand top-notch audio:
For mobile workers, these systems are great for on-the-go communication:
ATAs connect non-IP devices like fax machines or analog phones to Webex Calling:
Sometimes the "device" is just the software. Webex Calling supports:
Third-party devices may be used with Webex Calling when configured as customer-managed SIP endpoints. These devices are not automatically provisioned and must meet specific technical requirements:
If your device isn't ready for Webex Calling, you might face some challenges:
To avoid these challenges, consider upgrading to fully supported devices or leveraging migration tools provided by Cisco to update firmware on compatible models.
Webex Calling supports a range of Cisco desk phones, conference phones, DECT devices, and select analog telephone adapters. Support depends on model and firmware.
Some Cisco phone models can be reused if they are listed as Webex Calling supported and can run compatible firmware.
Yes, when configured as customer-managed SIP devices and when technical requirements such as TLS encryption are met.
No. Only specific models include video capabilities. Many devices are audio-only.
Unsupported devices may experience missing features, security limitations, and lack of vendor support.
