Updated: The PSTN switch-off will now take place by 2027.
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.
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for the switch-off.
What is the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)?
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.
Why is the PSTN being switched off?
- Cheaper
- Better sound quality
- Advanced features
- No need for a physical phone
What does this mean for my business?
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.
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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 switch-off
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- Don’t purchase out-of-date equipment like desk phones and phone lines now – this will be a waste of money as you will need to replace them again in 2027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
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.
Are you ready for the PSTN switch-off?
If you would like some more guidance about what next steps your business should take, speak to our communication experts now on 01273 806211 or email [email protected].
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