# Limit Call Duration of an Outbound Call

An outbound call is any call a user places out to an external number (as opposed to an internal extension-to-extension call). You can set a ceiling on how long those calls are allowed to last for a single extension. Once a call reaches the limit, Cloud Voice ends it automatically.

The usual reason to do this is cost and line control: a forgotten or runaway call left off the hook can tie up a line and run up per-minute charges. A duration cap makes sure the system hangs up on its own.

:::tip
Set a generous ceiling rather than a tight one. The goal is to catch calls that were clearly left connected by mistake, not to interrupt real conversations. Pick a value comfortably longer than your longest normal call.
:::

## Set the maximum duration

1. Sign in to the management portal and go to **Extension and Trunk > Extension**, then open the extension you want to configure for editing.
2. Select the **Security** tab.
3. Under **Call Restrictions**, set **Max Outbound Call Duration (s)**. Pick one of the preset values from the drop-down list, or type your own value. The value is measured in seconds (the `(s)` in the field name), so 300 means five minutes.

   :::note
   This limit applies only to the extension you are editing. If several extensions need a cap, repeat these steps for each one.
   :::

   :::danger
   Emergency calls (for example 911) are outbound calls too, so this limit applies to them. A value set too low could disconnect someone during an emergency. Always choose a duration long enough that it will never cut off an emergency call. The same limit will also end a normal long call mid-conversation once the time is reached, so do not set it shorter than your legitimate calls need.
   :::
4. Click **Save**, then **Apply**.

   :::caution
   The change does not take effect until you click **Apply**. Clicking **Save** alone stores the value but leaves the old behavior active.
   :::

## Result

Whenever a user on this extension places an outbound call, Cloud Voice tracks the elapsed time. As soon as the call reaches the **Max Outbound Call Duration (s)** you set, the system disconnects it, even if the call is still in progress.