Preparing for the future: Navigating the PSTN switch-off for UK businesses
Originally set to take place in 2025, the telephone network will now be switched off by 2027. This affects your business because the PSTN is how most traditional phones make and receive calls. The switch-off will gradually happen over the next few years, with providers turning off different areas at different times.
Understanding the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the switch to digital
The PSTN is a phone line network that contains copper wires connecting homes and businesses to the telephone exchange. These lines have been in use for over 100 years and are how most traditional phone calls are made. However, with technological advancements, there’s an ongoing shift from analogue to digital systems, prompting the eventual PSTN switch-off in 2027.
Why is the PSTN being switched off? Exploring Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
Businesses are switching to mobile and internet communications because they demand much more than what the traditional technologies were designed to deliver. Therefore, the PSTN is being replaced by newer technologies like Voice over IP (VoIP). VoIP uses an internet connection instead of copper wires, which makes it more flexible and has more features than the PSTN. Some of these features include:
- Cheaper
- Better sound quality
- Advanced features
- No need for a physical phone
You can read more about this in a previous blog – What does VoIP stand for?
What does this mean for my business phone systems?
If you are using a traditional phone line in Sussex or anywhere in the UK, it will stop working when your area’s PSTN is switched off.
You’ll need to switch to an alternative option by then to avoid any disruption to your business. VoIP services are available from many providers, so we recommend that you do your research to find one that meets the needs of your business.
You can discover more about what this means for your business within this podcast where Product Manager for Voice Networks, Claire Makin, discusses the BT Openreach PSTN and ISDN Switch Off – what it means for your business and what you can do to prepare for it.
Hosted VoIP Phone Systems
When is my area being switched off?
The switch-off will happen over a period of time, Brighton, Sussex and all areas of the UK will gradually get switched off at different times – resulting in all traditional landlines being switched off by 2027.
How to prepare your business for the PSTN network switch-off in 2025 and beyond
Businesses such as yours need to be aware of the impending changes and how this is going to affect your business. We strongly advise you to be one step ahead and research VoIP phone systems so your business can start to implement these changes before the switch takes place.
Here are some actions you can take right away to prepare your company for the future:
- Don’t purchase out-of-date equipment like desk phones and phone lines now – this will be a waste of money as you will need to replace them again in 2027
- Enquire with your phone provider and discover when your contract is due to be renewed. This will give you an idea of when your business will need to make the switch
- Avoid the temptation to simply renew your current contract and think you’ll deal with this closer to the time – making the switch today will ultimately save you time and money
- Test your internet connection to see if it is dependable and if not, now is an excellent time to consider upgrading – click here to test – a good internet speed is at or above 25 Mbps
- You’ll also need to update any equipment that uses your traditional phone line, like fax machines or alarm systems
What other services rely on PSTN and analogue systems?
The PSTN supports more than just voice calls. Alarm systems, telecare providers, and payment terminals often rely on PSTN lines. Businesses need to identify all services impacted by the PSTN switch-off and transition them to digital alternatives before the deadline of December 2025. Ensuring continuity for these critical services is vital for compliance and operational efficiency.
Technical alternatives to PSTN: SoGEA, broadband, and VoIP explained
Two primary alternatives are emerging: SoGEA and VoIP. SoGEA provides broadband without a traditional phone line, while VoIP allows voice services over the internet. These options offer greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Adoption of these technologies can ensure businesses remain competitive and ready for the digital future.
Backup solutions during power or network outages for business continuity
The transition to digital solutions requires contingency planning for power or network outages. Investing in uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and having a backup mobile phone network can ensure uninterrupted service. This is especially important for customer service and emergency response units.
Migration timeline: Phased switch-off and stop-sell dates with BT and Openreach
The PSTN switch-off will be phased, with stop-sell dates preceding the final switch-off. BT has confirmed the phased approach to provide more time for businesses to transition. Understanding these deadlines and engaging with service providers early can help avoid last-minute disruptions. Ofcom plays a critical role in ensuring these timelines are adhered to, facilitating a smooth transition for businesses.
Sector-specific advice: Lifts, utilities, alarms and security systems
Different sectors face unique challenges with the PSTN switch-off. Engaging experts for sector-specific solutions ensures compliance and uninterrupted service. Transitioning from analogue to digital systems offers an opportunity to enhance service efficiency and reliability.
PSTN switch-off - Key takeaways
- The PSTN switch-off is scheduled for January 2027, affecting all UK businesses.
- Transition from analogue to digital systems is necessary to maintain service connectivity.
- Businesses should audit current systems to identify all services relying on PSTN.
- SoGEA and VoIP are recommended alternatives to traditional phone lines.
- Backup solutions are crucial to ensure continuity during power or network outages.
- Understanding phased switch-off timelines and stop-sell dates is crucial for a smooth transition.
- Sector-specific advice is essential for industries significantly impacted by the switch-off.
- Proactive planning and early adoption of digital solutions can mitigate risks associated with the PSTN switch-off.
By understanding and preparing for these changes, businesses in Sussex can ensure they remain operational and competitive in a rapidly advancing digital landscape.
How Ingenio can help with the PSTN switch
The PSTN switch-off affects your business because the PSTN is how most traditional phones make and receive calls. Traditional landlines will stop operating in certain areas gradually over the next few years, and the providers will move in different directions as they do. As your phone line switches to VoIP, you’ll need to switch to the new VoIP service, which will require a router and some updating of your other equipment.
As a busy growing business, this can be incredibly overwhelming to think about, but we’re are getting closer, and the PSTN switch-off will be here before you know it. With this in mind, making the transition sooner rather than later will save you a headache in the long run.
For personalised advice and comprehensive assistance, get in touch with us today. Our team of experts is ready to help guide you through the transition process, ensuring a seamless switch to digital systems. Contact us now to start planning your future and stay ahead in the digital age!
FAQs
The PSTN switch-off is the process of replacing the legacy PSTN network with digital technologies like VoIP and SoGEA. This transition marks a significant shift for the telecoms industry across the UK, as it moves away from traditional phone services and analogue phone services to a fully digital network. The big PSTN switch-off is scheduled to be completed by the end of January 2027.
The switch-off is part of a broader transition to digital solutions that offer enhanced features and reliability compared to traditional analogue phone lines. This includes upgrading to IP-based solutions and adopting cloud-based services that support collaboration tools such as instant messaging and video conferencing. The goal is to replace PSTN services with more advanced digital voice options that can easily scale with business needs.
The PSTN switch-off 2027, was delayed from its original deadline of December 2025, provides additional time for businesses and service providers to transition smoothly from the analogue network to digital systems. This delay is necessary to ensure that fibre broadband and fibre-based services are fully in place and operational. Regulatory bodies like Ofcom have required this additional time to safeguard vulnerable customers and address any unforeseen challenges. BT announced the delay to ensure that all business customers are fully prepared for the transition.
Businesses relying on PSTN for phone services, alarms, and other systems will need to transition to digital alternatives by January 2027 to avoid service disruptions. This includes updating systems such as door entry systems, EPOS machines, and telecare devices to be functional on a digital phone network. Ensuring uninterrupted access to digital services is crucial for maintaining business operations. Business calls will be managed through VoIP technology, offering greater flexibility and integration with existing phone numbers.
With careful planning and the right support, your day-to-day operations should not suffer during the transition. Ensuring that your business is ready for the big PSTN switch-off involves upgrading to a fully digital network and verifying that all devices connected to your phone lines are compatible with digital services. By working with an IT support provider, you can minimize disruptions and maintain business continuity, keeping your operations running smoothly.
You can prepare by conducting a full audit of existing systems, exploring IP-based solutions, and consulting with providers. Plan your transition timeline well before the switch-off date to ensure a seamless transition. Engage with your landline provider and equipment supplier to understand specific requirements and ensure your devices are connected to your telephone lines and ready for the big switch-off. Check with your device manufacturer to confirm that all devices connected to your phone are compatible with the new digital network. Additionally, ensure that devices with their own battery, such as certain telecare devices, are updated to remain functional post-switch-off.
The transition to digital services includes measures to protect vulnerable customers. Ofcom requires telecoms companies to take all necessary steps to safeguard services for these customers, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential communication services during and after the transition. This includes maintaining personal alarms and ensuring they are compatible with digital voice services.
Broadband and fibre services are critical components of the transition to a digital network. Full fibre networks and fibre-based services provide the high-speed internet connectivity necessary for digital voice and VoIP services. Businesses should verify that their broadband router and internet connectivity are capable of supporting these new digital technologies to ensure seamless communication and business operations. The transition from analogue PSTN to digital networks also involves ensuring that phone and broadband services are upgraded and compatible with the new systems.
Landline services will transition from traditional PSTN lines to digital phone lines. This includes the PSTN stop sell of new analogue telephone network services, requiring businesses to switch to digital alternatives like VoIP and fibre-based solutions. Phone companies and telecoms companies recommend upgrading to ensure business continuity and uninterrupted access to communication services. BT confirmed that the switch-off will require all phone lines in all exchange areas to be upgraded.
Yes, mobile devices can be integrated into the new digital network, offering flexibility and mobility for business communications. Using national roaming and connecting mobile devices to digital voice services can enhance your business’s communication capabilities. Businesses can also use any mobile phone network to contact emergency organisations and ensure emergency calls are maintained during power outages or network disruptions. This integration is essential for keeping your business connected in the digital age.
Switching to a fully digital service offers numerous benefits for business customers. Enhanced features such as call recording, collaboration tools, and cloud-based services enable more efficient and scalable business operations. Additionally, digital voice services provide greater flexibility and higher reliability compared to traditional PSTN lines, allowing your business to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Engaging an IT support provider ensures that your business is fully prepared for the PSTN switch-off. They can help you navigate the complexities of transitioning from analogue phone lines to digital solutions, including fibre broadband and IP technology. With their expertise, you can ensure that your systems are compatible, your internet connectivity is robust, and your business remains operational throughout the transition. IT support providers can also liaise with telecoms companies and equipment suppliers to address any specific requirements your business may have.
The integrated services digital network (ISDN) is also being phased out as part of the transition to a fully digital network. Services digital network ISDN will be replaced by more flexible and scalable IP-based solutions, which offer enhanced features and integration capabilities. These IP-based solutions, alongside fibre based services, provide the necessary infrastructure for high-speed and reliable communication. Businesses using ISDN should consult with their telecoms provider to understand the specific timeline for their area and the necessary steps to transition to digital services. Additionally, the shift to cloud based services allows businesses to leverage advanced collaboration tools and communication platforms, enhancing operational efficiency and scalability. This is part of the broader effort to ensure all communication systems are modernized and ready for the future.
