In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to install free version of 3CX . Whether you’re a small business or IT admin deploying a test system, this step-by-step tutorial will help you get 3CX up and running quickly and smoothly.
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How to Set Up 3CX Free in Minutes (Step-by-Step Overview)
Want to deploy 3CX fast? Here’s a quick breakdown of how to install the free edition of 3CX:
Sign up: Visit the 3CX website and create a free account.
Log in: Access the 3CX Customer Portal using your credentials.
Create a system: Go to “Add Systems” and start a new 3CX instance.
Configure basic settings: Select your country, data center location, and system preferences.
Choose the free edition: Pick “3CX FREE” and specify the number of users (up to 10).
Confirm and access: Finalize your setup and log in to the 3CX Management Console.
This process typically takes less than 10 minutes and gives you full access to the free version’s PBX features.
What Do You Need Before Installing 3CX Free?
Before jumping into the installation, make sure your setup meets a few basic requirements. These vary depending on how you choose to host 3CX, whether it’s cloud-hosted by 3CX, deployed on your own cloud (like AWS or Azure), or installed on-premise.
Here’s what to check first:
Hosting method: Decide if you’ll use 3CX’s hosted platform (easiest option) or install it on your own server or VPS. Cloud hosting simplifies networking, while self-hosted gives you more control.
System requirements: For self-hosting, you’ll need a supported OS (like Debian or Windows), 1–2 vCPU cores, 2–4 GB RAM, and stable internet with a static IP or proper DNS setup.
Firewall and NAT: Make sure your firewall allows SIP and RTP traffic and is configured for port forwarding if installing on-prem.
SIP trunk provider: 3CX doesn’t provide phone numbers by default, so you’ll need to connect it to a SIP trunk provider to enable external calling.
FQDN and SSL: 3CX will prompt you to choose a domain (FQDN) during setup; it also automatically provisions an SSL certificate to secure the interface.
Preparing these elements in advance ensures a smoother installation and minimises post-setup troubleshooting.
How to Install Free Version of 3CX: Step-by-step
1. Navigate to the 3CX page
2. In case you do not have an account click on pricing
3. In case you already have an account with 3CX click on Login
4. From the Plans and Pricing page select the option to 3CX SMB Free
5. From the bottom of the page select to create an account using your Gmail or email
6. Fill your Name and Email fields and press Let’s Go
7. You will receive an email to confirm your email account -> your account is created
8. Navigate to the login page and login
9. From the top toolbar navigate to My Systems
10. Press ADD SYSTEM
11. From the options select the Free
12. Press Next
13. Your system is ready, you will also receive an email once the system is ready and you can now login to it.
What Does the 3CX Free Edition Include?
The 3CX Free Edition is designed for small businesses or teams looking to deploy a full-featured PBX without any upfront cost. It includes essential features to support up to 10 users, but with some limitations compared to the paid versions.
With the free plan, you get access to:
Basic PBX features: Extension dialing, voicemail, call forwarding, and more.
Softphone & mobile apps: For Android, iOS, Windows, and web browsers.
Live chat & web integration: Embed chat on your website to support customers.
Remote access: Built-in support for remote workers and hybrid teams.
Web-based management console: Easy setup and configuration from anywhere.
However, the free edition omits certain capabilities that larger businesses or call centers may require, such as detailed reporting, call queues with advanced logic, and full-scale call center tools.
3CX Free vs Paid Plan Comparison
| Feature | 3CX Free Edition | 3CX Commercial Licenses |
|---|---|---|
| User Limit | Up to 10 users | Unlimited (based on license) |
| Softphone & Mobile App Support | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Voicemail & Call Routing | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Web Chat Integration | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Call Reporting & Analytics | ❌ Not Included | ✅ Included |
| Advanced Call Queues / IVR | ❌ Limited | ✅ Advanced Options |
| Call Center Tools | ❌ Not Included | ✅ Included (Pro/Ent) |
| CRM Integration | ❌ Not Included | ✅ Included |
| Multi-Site Deployment | ❌ Not Included | ✅ Included |
| Support / SLAs | ❌ Community Only | ✅ Email / Phone Support |
This makes the 3CX Free Edition a great starting point for smaller teams or pilot deployments, especially when paired with a flexible SIP trunk provider.
What Are Common 3CX Installation Issues, and How Do You Fix Them?
Even with its user-friendly setup, 3CX installations can run into a few common hiccups, especially for those self-hosting or using custom network setups. Here are typical problems and how to resolve them:
- Firewall & NAT Misconfiguration
If ports used by 3CX (like SIP 5060, RTP 9000–10999) aren’t properly forwarded or whitelisted, calls may fail, audio can be one-way, or users can’t register extensions. Use 3CX’s Firewall Checker in the management console to verify your setup. Make sure to allow the recommended ports on your router and firewall. - DNS or FQDN Issues
Choosing an FQDN (domain) during setup is required, especially for remote access. If DNS isn’t properly resolving or the SSL certificate fails, your system may not be reachable. Double-check DNS propagation, make sure ports 80 and 443 are open, and that no other service is blocking Let’s Encrypt validation. - SIP Trunk Not Registering
Many first-time users forget that 3CX doesn’t provide numbers, you must connect to a SIP trunk. If the trunk doesn’t register, calls won’t work. Confirm the SIP credentials, outbound proxy, and supported codecs with your provider. Use 3CX’s SIP trunk templates when available. - Audio or Call Quality Problems
Issues like jitter, latency, or dropped calls are usually due to poor network conditions or lack of Quality of Service (QoS). So, prioritize VoIP traffic on your router (set QoS), avoid using Wi-Fi for desk phones, and test your internet connection for VoIP suitability. - Provisioning Failures (Apps & Phones)
Sometimes apps or desk phones don’t auto-provision, especially behind strict firewalls or when QR codes aren’t scanned correctly. Resend welcome emails, ensure device time settings match server time, and use direct STUN or SBC provisioning for remote phones.
What Should You Do After Installing 3CX Free?
Once 3CX is successfully installed, it’s time to turn your system into a fully functioning business communication hub. These post-installation steps ensure everything runs smoothly and securely from day one:
- Connect a SIP Trunk Provider
To make and receive external calls, you’ll need to link 3CX with a SIP trunking partner. Connect with a provider and choose a pay-as-you-go SIP trunking plan here. - Add Users and Extensions
In the management console, create extensions for your team, assign email addresses, and configure voicemail or call forwarding preferences. Send “Welcome Emails” so users can auto-provision their apps. - Set Up Devices and Apps
Deploy the 3CX app on mobile and desktop devices or provision IP phones. With QR code provisioning, users can be up and running in seconds. - Configure Inbound/Outbound Rules
Define how calls flow into your system. For example, route calls to sales during business hours and to voicemail after-hours. Set outbound rules for least-cost routing or regional dialing patterns. - Enable Remote Access and Security Settings
If your users work remotely, ensure the FQDN is reachable externally, and SSL is active. Activate security features like IP blacklisting, strong passwords, and system alerts for suspicious activity. - Test the System
Make test calls internally and externally to confirm call quality, routing, and app functionality. Check voicemail, call transfers, and extensions to ensure everything behaves as expected.
FAQ About 3CX Free Version
- Is 3CX softphone free?
Yes, the 3CX softphone is completely free and available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. You can download it directly from the 3CX website or app stores and use it with your 3CX system without any licensing costs.
- What are the different versions of 3CX license?
3CX offers three main editions:
Free (SMB Edition): Supports up to 10 users with essential features.
Professional: Includes call queues, CRM integration, reports, and more.
Enterprise: Adds advanced call center tools, skill-based routing, failover, and higher SLAs.
- Does 3CX cost money?
The basic edition is free for up to 10 users. Paid plans are available for larger teams or businesses that need advanced features, support, or enterprise-level functionality.
- What happens when a 3CX license expires?
If your 3CX commercial license expires, your system reverts to the free edition automatically (assuming it meets the free version limits). Advanced features tied to the Pro or Enterprise licenses will be disabled, but your core phone system will continue to work.
Ready to Power Your 3CX Install with SIP Trunking That Just Works?
Once you’ve installed the free version of 3CX, the next step is connecting it to an official SIP trunking partner, and that’s where Telxi comes in.
As an official 3CX partner, Telxi offers SIP trunks that are fully compatible, easy to configure, and built for scale. You can get started in minutes with transparent pricing, real-time provisioning, and 24/7 expert support.
