PSTN switch-off
The UK’s Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) is being switched off forever in December 2025. The old, analogue PSTN can’t keep up with the demands of modern communication, so the switch to fully digital will mark a big step forward.
In simple terms, everything will use the internet.
This will affect everyone. It’s not just our phone lines that will be affected by the PSTN switch-off. Any equipment that also uses PSTN will stop working too. That could be your alarm systems, CCTV, fax machines (yes some are still in use!), even door entry systems and some card machines. The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) will also stop working.
You may also need to update your broadband and some of your other hardware.
Of course, you’ll still need phone lines for your business. That will mean switching to a digital technology, like a VoIP (Voice Over the Internet) phone system.
If you haven’t already switched to fibre broadband, you’ll need to consider this now, if your area is covered. Full fibre connections are a lot faster and more reliable. This also works to improve productivity and efficiency in your business.
This might feel like another thing to add to your to-do list, but making the move to digital comes with a lot of benefits.
Firstly, it’s likely you’ll save money. Line rental is a lot cheaper for digital phone systems like VoIP, and they’re more cost-effective to run. That’s because you only pay for what you use, adding new lines as and when you need to.
Traditional phone lines no longer offer the call quality or reliability they once did.
Switching to internet phone systems brings benefits like better call quality, better scalability, and more features that improve customer experience. There are better options for call forwarding when lines are busy, better hold options, and plenty of conferencing features.
VoIP phones are better suited to modern day working. With many of us having hybrid workforces, it means not everyone is in the office every day. VoIP numbers aren’t fixed to a location, which means people can have a phone in their home office if they want to. Also, calls can be easily directed to other devices, so wherever your people work from, they can be reached by phone.
What’s more, digital phone lines will be supported by more devices, and boast improved security, keeping your business better protected from cyber-attacks.
With the final switch-off due in December 2025, time is of the essence if you need to plan for a changes.
Make the switch now, and you’ll benefit from additional months of cost savings and business improvements.
It might feel like a lot to get to grips with the right solutions for your business – but we do this all the time, and we’re here to help and make the complex simple!
Contact us today, we’d be happy to talk you through your options and give you all the advice you need to make a smooth, seamless switch.
