To call on a Cisco phone, lift the handset, press the Speaker button, press a line button, or press the New Call softkey, then dial the number. This is the fundamental method for placing any call on your desk phone.
How to call on a Cisco phone: The fundamental methods
You have several ways to start a call. Lift the handset and dial the number using the keypad. Alternatively, press the Speaker button to use the speakerphone, press a line button to select an open line, or press the New Call softkey on the screen. After selecting your method, simply dial the number you want to reach.
Pre-dialing a number
You can enter a phone number while the phone is idle and then initiate the call. This lets you verify the number before connecting. After typing the digits, lift the handset or press Speaker, Headset, or a line button to place the call.
Making an external call
To reach an outside line, you typically dial an access code before the phone number. For example, dial 9 followed by the 10-digit number. Your organization may use a different code, so check with your administrator if you are unsure.
Redialing a number
To redial the last number you called, press the Redial button. To choose a different recent number, press the up or down arrow on the navigation pad to open your call history. Highlight the desired number, then pick up the handset or press the Dial or Speaker button.
Using speed dials
Speed dial numbers are set up through the Cisco Unified Communications Self Care Portal. Once configured, dial the speed dial code (for example, a number from 1 to 199) and press the SpeedDial softkey or button. On some Cisco phone models, you can press and hold a numeric key (2 through 9) to dial a pre-assigned speed-dial hot key.
Calling from the directory
Press the Directories button on your phone. Select Personal Directory or Corporate Directory. Log in with your UserID and PIN if prompted. Search for the contact you need, then press Dial to place the call.
Troubleshooting common call issues
No dial tone: Check the Ethernet connection between your phone and the network port. Ensure the cable is secure and the network port is active. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the cable.
Poor call quality: Check for network disruptions or excessive traffic that could affect audio. Restart your router if possible, or connect to a different network. Check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
Inability to make calls: Your Cisco IP phone must be connected to the corporate IP telephony network and properly registered. Incorrect dial plan configuration on the phone or the Cisco CallManager can also prevent outbound calls. Verify your phone's registration status and configuration.
Call forwarding troubleshooting: Verify the forwarding number is entered correctly and the feature is enabled; contact your system administrator if the issue persists.
If you need to forward a cell phone, the process is managed through your phone's call forwarding settings rather than the Cisco desk phone itself. For mobile calling features, you may want to use Wi-Fi calling on iPhone, which can improve call quality when cellular signal is weak. When dialing internationally, be sure to use the correct international calling codes and dialing format for the destination country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I answer a call on my Cisco phone?
When the phone rings, lift the handset, press the Speaker button, or press the Answer softkey to answer. If you have a headset connected, press the Headset softkey instead.
Can I put a call on hold?
Yes. During an active call, press the Hold button or select the Hold softkey. To retrieve the call, press the Resume button or the corresponding softkey.
How do I transfer a call?
During an active call, press the Transfer button or softkey. Dial the extension or phone number where you want to send the call, then press Transfer again to complete the transfer.
Can I make a conference call?
Yes. During an active call, press the Conference button or softkey. Dial the second party's number and wait for them to answer. Press Conference again to connect all parties.
Why is my phone showing an error message?
Try restarting the phone and check for software updates. Note the specific error message and contact your IT support team for further assistance.
How do I access voicemail?
Press the Messages button or the voicemail softkey. Follow the prompts to enter your PIN and listen to messages. If you cannot access voicemail, verify that your mailbox is set up with the correct extension. Ensure your voicemail box is set up with the correct extension or mailbox number.
