Skype for Business (S4B) FAQ

Will people still be able to call from outside the university? 

• Yes, when calls initiated from off-campus they will ring through the S4B extension (Incoming calls to the 3xxxx extension can be re-routed to the S4B extension, with additional charge) 

Can I assume that my direct line will just ring through to my computer instead of a phone?

• If the direct line was not moved to S4B extension, it would not ring at S4B app

  •  A direct line with its own 519-###-#### phone number, are not included in the migration. The specific number should go in a request to the telephone team to verify how it is set up  

Will there be a call display for external numbers? 

• Yes, if the external number has that information it will display caller, some numbers call display is hidden. 

Will people be able to leave voicemails when they call from an external line (or even and internal line)? 

• Yes, voicemail is both displayed in S4B interface AND sent to your email address [subject: Voice Mail (xx seconds)]. 

  • The link to check and set up voicemail is here: 
    https://uwaterloo.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/ISTKB/pages/280822987/Exchange+Online+Voicemail+to+Azure+Cloud+Voicemail?src=search 

    • These instructions apply to people with email in Microsoft 365 

Will voicemail still happen even if my computer is not turned on? 

• Yes, absolutely. Voicemail is captured whether you have computer on or off and S4B application running or not. 

If voicemails are possible, can I assume that I can put on a vacation response or check my messages from away? 

• You can simply change the message through the interface 

How does 911 work with Skype business?

• 911 through S4B is recommended to use only when on campus. This also relies on location information being kept up to date with telephone services, so they know the usual location of each extension. 

  1. Recommended to call 911 first. 

Can we dial 911 through Skype? 

• Yes, only recommend for on-campus calls; should not use from home or elsewhere 

In a power failure, does this mean the phone system will no longer work? 

• No,S4B will not work without internet connection.

  1. Some “land-line” phones will remain working. 

Does this mean that all computers will now be outfitted with a web cam and microphone so that it is possible to talk with people? 

• Dell headsets will be provided if using a desktop. Most if not all new laptops have camera & microphones. 

I am currently using a web cam from home, but if it is a requirement that phones go through our computer, what type of hardware will the university be providing to make this possible? 

• Dell headsets will be provided for those that have desktops or a laptop without camera and microphone once users return to campus. 

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