Alltone TelecomsBusiness phones and numbers

Call handling guide

What is a hunt group? Hunt groups vs ring groups vs call queues

All three send one incoming call to several people. The difference is the order they ring in and what happens when everyone is busy.

By the Alltone Telecoms team. Updated 24 October 2026. About 2 minutes to read.

Definitions

FeatureHow it ringsBest for
Ring groupAll phones ring at onceSmall teams where anyone can answer
Hunt groupPhones ring in a set order until someone answersCovering a main person with backups
Call queueCallers wait in line and are offered to free agentsBusy lines where calls must not be lost

Choosing between them

Use a ring group when speed matters more than who answers. Use a hunt group when there is a natural first choice, such as a receptionist with colleagues as backup. Use a queue when you regularly have more callers than people free to answer.

Common questions

Something else on your mind? Call 020 7112 8558 or send us a message and a telecoms specialist will reply.

Can mobiles be in a hunt group?

Yes. On a cloud system mobiles, desk phones and apps can all be members.

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