Phone greeting for FreePBX / Asterisk

Which file does FreePBX / Asterisk need?

FreePBX System Recordings accepts WAV and MP3 and can convert them to your installation’s codecs. Use the PCM WAV in your download. Standalone Asterisk without FreePBX uses a different administration workflow.

16-bit PCM WAV (8 kHz, mono)

Set up your greeting in FreePBX / Asterisk

1. Open Admin → System Recordings → Add Recording.
2. Give the recording a unique name and upload the PCM WAV. Under Convert To, select the formats used by your administrator.
3. Save with Submit and Apply Config. Assign the recording to your IVR or announcement and test.

Which greeting do you need?

These are possible uses for a phone greeting. The features available in your FreePBX / Asterisk environment depend on your product, licence and settings.

Welcome message

The first thing a caller hears. Your company name, and immediate confirmation that they reached the right place.

Phone menu (IVR)

The options callers use to route themselves. Each option is a separate line, so keep them short and put the most-used option first.

On-hold message

What someone hears while waiting in the queue. Say roughly how long it takes, or where they can find the answer themselves.

Closed announcement and voicemail

Outside opening hours, or when nobody picks up. Say when you are available again, so the customer calls back at the right moment.

Common questions about greetings for FreePBX / Asterisk

Can I use one file for everything?

It depends on the feature and script. Use a separate recording where callers need a different message. Ask your administrator where your FreePBX / Asterisk environment uses each recording.

What does a greeting for FreePBX / Asterisk cost?

A single greeting costs 24 dollars, regardless of length. If you need several, a package is cheaper; credits never expire.

What if I switch to a different phone system later?

Then you need the same recording in a different format. If you are not sure which system you have, choose “Other / not sure” at checkout and you receive every format at once.