Running a small business doesn’t mean settling for second-best — especially when it comes to how you communicate. That’s why Lightwire is making it easier than ever for small businesses across Australia and New Zealand to upgrade their phone systems with 3CX Small Business (3CX SMB), a purpose-built, cloud-based PBX designed with growing teams in mind.
3CX SMB is ideal for teams of up to 10 users who want reliable performance without the cost or complexity of a full dedicated 3CX setup.
Whether you’re managing a handful of staff or just starting to scale, 3CX SMB delivers all the essentials — voicemail, call queues, digital receptionists — in one simple, affordable package.
Calling Plan Options
Choose ONE of the following call plans for your entire organisation.
| Plan Option | Inclusions |
|---|---|
| PAYG (Pay As You Go) |
Pay per call at competitive rates. Best for businesses with low outbound calling needs. |
| Boundless Plan |
Unlimited NZ/AU Outbound to Mobile, National & 1300 Calls. Unlimited Inbound AU 1300/1800 Calls. Perfect for businesses with predictable or high call volumes. |
NOTE: All extensions in customers PBX instance must be on the same call plan — you cannot mix PAYG and Boundless within the same tenant.
We don’t allow or support 3rd party trunks with this product.
Key Features
Call Handling Essentials
- Call Queues
- Digital Receptionist (IVR)
- Voicemail
Call Recording
- Optional per extension
- Recordings retained for 30 days
User Management
- Admin portal access to manage extensions and settings
- Note: Predefined 5-digit extension ranges (e.g. 10100–10179)
Number Presentation & Routing
- DDI (Direct Dial In) assignment
Cost-Effective Calling Plans
- PAYG (Pay As You Go) or
- Boundless
Shared Cloud Hosting
- Hosted on shared virtual servers
- Note: FQDN is pre-set (e.g. hosted3cx1.ufone.co.nz hosted3cx1.siphosting.co)
Basic Reporting
- Standard call history and reports
Mobile & Desktop Apps
- Free softphone apps for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
- Web client for easy remote work
Security & Maintenance
- Regular system updates and patching are managed by Lightwire
- Firewall and SBC (Session Border Controller) support for security
Limitations
| Feature /Service | 3CX SMB Boundless Availability |
|---|---|
| CRM / Microsoft 365 Integration | Not available |
| Voicemail Transcription | Not available |
| Intercom, Paging, PA Announcements | Not available |
| Hotel Module | Not available |
| Hot Desking | Not available |
| Call Flow Designer | Not available |
| Global Phone Book | Not available |
| Hold Music | Global hold music applies to all tenants |
| Extension Numbering | Pre-set eg. 10100-10179 for users |
| Call Recording Retention | 30 days max |
| Max Users | 80 extensions, 20 queues, digital receptionists, admins |
| Recommended Max Users for Best Value | 10 users or less |
| Usage Restrictions | No telemarketing, call centres, robocalling, telehealth |
How to order 3CX SMB
3CX SMB is now available for Lightwire business customers across Australia and New Zealand.
Full pricing is available in our Rate Cards in illume.
Wholesale Partners: You can place your orders directly in illume via our Self-Service Voice Ordering Tool or contact us.
All Customers – simply contact us and we’ll get you set up.
When to Upgrade to a dedicated 3CX system
If your business needs custom domains, CRM links, Microsoft 365, or advanced call handling tools like the Call Flow Designer or if you’re growing beyond 10 users then it’s time to step up to a dedicated 3CX system, which unlocks all these capabilities with your own private environment.
You should upgrade to a dedicated 3CX system when you require:
- More than 10 users or higher concurrent call volumes
- Custom FQDN / branded domains
- CRM or Microsoft 365 integration
- Advanced features like Hot Desking, Call Flow Designer, Intercom/Paging
- Compliance requirements eg. longer recording retention, data isolation
- Heavy customisation or API integrations
Read more about 3CX here.
We're here to help
If you have any queries about 3CX SMB, our team are more than happy to help.
NZ: 0800 534 567 | AU: 1300 016 678
