What is Call Forwarding?
Quick Definition
Call forwarding redirects incoming calls from one phone number to another. It is how most businesses connect their existing number to an AI receptionist or answering service.
Call Forwarding explained
Call forwarding is a telephony feature that automatically redirects incoming calls from one phone number to another destination. For businesses using AI receptionists or answering services, call forwarding is typically the setup mechanism: the business forwards its main number to the answering service's number, which then handles the call. Types of call forwarding include: unconditional (all calls forwarded), no-answer (forwards after a set number of rings), busy (forwards when the line is busy), and conditional (forwards based on time of day or caller ID). Most business phone systems, VoIP providers, and even basic landlines support call forwarding. Setting up an AI receptionist like AIRA typically involves enabling call forwarding on your existing phone system — the process takes under 15 minutes and your callers continue dialing your regular business number without knowing the call is being handled by AI.
Where is call forwarding used?
Every business phone system, VoIP platforms, mobile phones.
Related terms
Call Routing
Call routing is the process of directing incoming phone calls to the most appropriate person, department, or system based on predefined rules, caller input, or AI-driven analysis.
Call Transfer
Call transfer is the process of redirecting an active phone call from one person or system to another. Types include blind transfer (immediate redirect) and warm transfer (with introduction).
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
VoIP is technology that transmits voice calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. It enables business phone systems, video calls, and unified communications at lower cost.
Want to see call forwarding in action?
AIRA is an AI receptionist that answers your business calls 24/7.