The 2025 PSTN Switch Off

Embrace a digital future, make the switch today.

Be Prepared For The PSTN Switch Off

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional analogue phone system that has been in use for over a century. With the rise of digital technology, however, the PSTN has become outdated, and many countries around the world, including the UK, have decided to switch off the PSTN network in favour of newer, digital networks.

The speed, scalability, and method of communication required by modern businesses can no longer be sustained by ISDN and PSTN networks. This means that the existing PSTN network and services will be replaced with newer, digital systems like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) services.

The UK has set a target date of December 2025 for the complete switch off of the network. The switch-off will also impact all other devices dependent on the old phone network, including door entry systems, CCTV cameras, fax machines, alarm systems, and EPOS machines. As the switch off progresses, businesses will need to transition to digital systems to ensure that their phone lines and services continue to work.

What Does This Mean For My Business?

To prepare for the switch off, businesses should start planning for alternative communication solutions that meet their needs. This will help ensure a smooth transition, minimise the last-minute rush and unexpected disruption to operations.

Businesses should ask themselves questions such as, "Will we need to replace our current telephony equipment with newer models?" or "Is our internet connection fast enough to support cloud telephony?"

Adopting modern and flexible communication systems such as cloud telephony, hosted PBX, and other internet-based communication systems can provide businesses with the speed, scalability, and agility needed to grow in today's dynamic business landscape.

The Switch Off Timeline:

 

No matter your business size or sector, our other telephony solutions can translate into better business results with:


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Time and Cost Savings

Fully managed solutions without the expensive hardware and maintenance fees.

Scalable Solutions

Telecom that grows with your business so you can easily meet changing demands.

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Enhanced security

Digital encryption that keeps your communications protected and private.

Improved productivity and mobility

Securely connect to calls, voicemails and web conferences from any device, anywhere.

FAQ

BT openreach has announced that it intends to switch off the traditional, copper-based telephone network in 2025. While 2025 may seem a while away, from December 2023 you won’t be able to purchase any new ISDN or PSTN-based services.

Need some advice? Contact us today.

The PSTN switch off will affect all businesses that are currently operating with the use of PSTN or ISDN services. If your business falls into this category, you will need to move to a new network if you'd like to continue using your telephony and number.

With traditional telephone companies phasing out ISDN/PSTN, SIP trunking is a great alternative! It is easy to set up and manage and has the same feel as a traditional phone line without the need for a physical line.

You may also be interested in cloud telephony, which is perfect for any business size. You’ll be able to send and receive voice, video, data and text communications from any device in any location, all unified on a single platform. With the latest productivity features included, you’ll collaborate and serve your customers more efficiently while eliminating high telecom costs and headaches.

Still need to upgrade? If you're looking to switch before traditional telephony disappears, CloudCoCo's expert team can help you make a smooth transition.

With our extensive experience and knowledge of modern communication technologies, we can guide you through the process of selecting the right solution for your business. We will assess your current infrastructure, identify any potential challenges, and work with you to design and implement a cost-effective and reliable system that meets your specific needs.

Contact us today to see how we can help.