When you’re in the market for a reliable communication partner, finding one with nationwide reach and a comprehensive service offering can be challenging. Telkom—a cornerstone in South Africa’s telecommunications industry—promises to deliver reliable and cost-effective VoIP and business communication solutions. But does it live up to the expectations? Here’s everything you need to know about Telkom, from who they are as a brand to what their customers are saying.
Company Overview
Telkom is one of South Africa’s most established telecommunications providers, with a legacy spanning over six decades. Originally known for its fixed-line telephone services, Telkom has evolved into a provider of VoIP, cloud solutions, internet services, and more.
Headquartered in Pretoria, they serve enterprises of all sizes with tailored solutions that enhance communication, connectivity, and collaboration. Their extensive network infrastructure and experience make them a reliable choice for businesses looking to modernise their communication systems while managing costs.
Brand Promise
Telkom’s brand promise revolves around “connecting South African businesses to the future” by offering innovative communication tools that are reliable, scalable, and affordable. They aim to empower businesses with solutions that reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enable seamless communication across multiple locations.
Core Offerings
They provide a wide range of services, including internet connectivity, cloud solutions, and VoIP services. Below is an overview of their VoIP-focused offerings:
1. VoIP Calling Plans
They offer a variety of VoIP packages suited to different business needs. Features include:
- Pay-as-you-go VoIP – Businesses only pay for the calls they make, with no long-term commitments.
- Unlimited VoIP Plans – Monthly bundles with pre-allocated minutes or unlimited calling options, offering predictable costs.
- Free On-Net Calls – Calls between Telkom VoIP users are free, reducing costs for businesses with multiple branches.
- Nationwide and International Calling – Telkom’s VoIP services provide competitive rates for both local and global calls.
2. Cloud PBX Solutions
Their cloud-hosted PBX eliminates the need for on-premise hardware, offering a scalable solution for businesses. Key features include:
- Call routing and forwarding
- Voicemail-to-email functionality
- Auto-attendant for professional call handling
- Call analytics to monitor performance
3. PBX Switchboard Solutions
Their PBX Switchboard services provide businesses with a professional and efficient communication system. Options include:
- OptiCon PABX – A flexible switchboard solution for businesses of all sizes.
- PABX iPECS eMG100 – A cost-effective on-premise PABX solution.
- Cloud PABX – A hosted solution offering scalability and ease of management.
4. Internet and Connectivity Solutions
Telkom pairs its VoIP and PBX services with fast and reliable internet solutions, including fibre, LTE, and wireless broadband. This ensures smooth call quality and uninterrupted communication.
What Makes Telkom Unique?
Telkom distinguishes itself in South Africa’s VoIP market by leveraging its extensive experience and infrastructure.
1. Nationwide Network:
With one of the largest telecom networks in South Africa, they provide reliable service coverage for businesses across urban and rural areas.
2. Flexible VoIP Options:
They offer a mix of pay-as-you-go and unlimited VoIP plans, giving businesses the flexibility to choose a package that aligns with their usage patterns and budget.
3. Free On-Net Calling:
Calls between Telkom VoIP users are free, making it an excellent choice for businesses with multiple branches or remote teams.
4. Seamless Integration with Internet Services:
Their VoIP services are optimised for use with their own internet solutions, ensuring high-quality calls and minimal disruptions.
Solution Packages and Pricing
Their VoIP, PBX, and internet pricing is designed to cater to businesses of all sizes, offering flexibility and affordability. Here’s a breakdown of their offerings:
VoIP Packages
| Package Name | Features Included | Monthly Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited VoIP 1 | Pay-as-you-go option—only pay for calls made. | From R101 per month |
| Unlimited VoIP 2 | Includes monthly bundles with pre-allocated minutes. | From R135 per month |
| Unlimited VoIP 3 | Larger bundles with more minutes; ideal for growing businesses. | From R229 per month |
| Unlimited VoIP 5 | Unlimited calling for up to 5 extensions. | From R1,599 per month |
| Unlimited VoIP 10 | Unlimited calling for up to 10 extensions. | From R2,999 per month |
PBX Switchboard Pricing
| Solution | Monthly Pricing |
|---|---|
| OptiCon PABX | Price on request |
| PABX iPECS eMG100 | From R728 per month |
| PABX Cloud | From R899 per month (36-month contract) |
LTE and Fibre Deals
| Package | Speed | Data Allocation | Monthly Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTE 20GB | Up to 10Mbps | 20GB Anytime + 20GB Night Surfer | From R99 per month |
| LTE 50GB | Up to 20Mbps | 50GB Anytime + 50GB Night Surfer | From R199 per month |
| LTE 100GB | Up to 30Mbps | 100GB Anytime + 100GB Night Surfer | From R399 per month |
| Fibre 25Mbps | 25Mbps/10Mbps | Uncapped | From R399 per month |
| Fibre 50Mbps | 50Mbps/25Mbps | Uncapped | From R599 per month |
| Fibre 100Mbps | 100Mbps/50Mbps | Uncapped | From R799 per month |
For detailed pricing and additional options, visit Telkom’s website.
Service and Support
Telkom prioritizes customer support, offering businesses multiple channels to resolve issues and access assistance.
Comprehensive Support Channels:
- Call Center: Dedicated support agents are available during business hours to assist with queries.
- Online Portal: Manage your VoIP and PBX services via Telkom’s user-friendly portal.
- Email Support: Businesses can email detailed inquiries for follow-up assistance.
Customer Experiences: Reviews and Testimonials
They have received mixed reviews from its customers, with many praising the affordability and reliability of its VoIP services. However, some users have expressed concerns about response times for support queries during peak periods.
HelloPeter Reviews:
On HelloPeter, they have a wide range of reviews, with customers often highlighting the cost savings they’ve achieved with Telkom’s VoIP plans. Free on-net calls and competitive international rates are frequently mentioned as standout features.
One reviewer shared:
“Telkom’s VoIP service has been a great addition to our business. The free on-net calls have significantly reduced our communication costs, and the call quality has been excellent.”
Direct Testimonials:
On their website, they feature testimonials from businesses that have implemented their VoIP and cloud PBX solutions. Many clients commend the scalability and simplicity of their services, especially for businesses with multiple locations.
Key Takeaways
Affordable VoIP Solutions:
Telkom’s pay-as-you-go and unlimited VoIP plans make it easy for businesses to control costs while benefiting from advanced features.
Nationwide Coverage:
With one of the most extensive networks in South Africa, Telkom ensures reliable communication, even in remote areas.
Customer-Centric Approach:
Their free on-net calls and flexible pricing make them a strong choice for businesses with diverse communication needs.
Reliable Internet Integration:
Their VoIP services are optimized for use with their own internet solutions, ensuring high call quality and minimal disruptions.
Telkom continues to be a trusted provider of VoIP and cloud communication solutions in South Africa. With a focus on affordability, scalability, and nationwide reliability, Telkom delivers services that cater to businesses of all sizes.
Whether you’re looking for pay-as-you-go VoIP or a fully hosted PBX, they have the tools to enhance your communication infrastructure and reduce costs. Visit Telkom’s website to explore their VoIP solutions and find the right fit for your business.
Telkom Alternatives
If you’re still weighing your options, consider these alternatives:
Centracom: Offers cost-effective VoIP solutions with robust customer service.
Euphoria Telecom: Known for comprehensive call centre solutions and wireless connectivity.
Switch Telecom: Another potential option for enhanced communication infrastructure.
Choosing a telecom provider is a big decision. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider using our service. We’ve connected over 50,000 users through our service since 2009 and we’re perfectly positioned to help you too.
Visit our Get Quote page to reach out so we can connect you with the perfect provider.
