pstn switch off 2027
Companies now need to move towards Internet Protocol (IP) networks which are more cost-effective and efficient. All businesses need to upgrade their telephone systems.
For over a century, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been the backbone of UK telephone communications. Using analogue technology to transmit voice signals over copper wires, it was the only way we could make and receive calls. In recent years the UK have been phasing out the PSTN as it becomes an outdated form of communication. By the 31 January 2027, it will cease to exist altogether.
Companies now need to move towards Internet Protocol (IP) networks which are more cost-effective and efficient. All businesses need to upgrade their telephone systems. There are many benefits to switching; you’ll get enhanced features, save money and have a more flexible and scalable solution. Seize the opportunity to get ahead of the crowd and enjoy the benefits of All-IP networks by switching early.
The PSTN network has been around since the 1800s, so it’s little surprise that it’s outdated. We are more reliant on technology than ever before. As new technologies are being created, PSTN simply cannot provide the infrastructure to carry these innovations. We need a fully fibre infrastructure to be able to cope with everything we expect from our telecoms technology. Ofcom also pushed for the switch-off to ensure a more fair, competitive and innovative UK telecoms market.
advanced features
There are a range of advanced applications available on All-IP networks that are not obtainable on traditional PSTN systems such as instant messaging, unified messaging and video conferencing.
lower costs
As you will no longer need to maintain and upgrade the complex infrastructure that PSTN requires, your company can save money. Making calls over the internet is much less expensive than through a traditional phone line.
higher scalability
You can easily add and remove users, devices and applications as you need them. This allows your business to quickly adapt to market conditions, technology trends and customer demands.
increasing accessibility
With tools like video conferencing and instant messaging, you can improve your communication capabilities.
better user experience
IP networks provide a higher quality call and more reliable service which provides both your customers and employees with a better user experience. This means higher employee satisfaction and stronger customer relations.
If you leave it too late, you’ll have less time to plan and prepare yourself and your staff. We recommend switching early to avoid any potential delays or disruptions to your service. As the deadline approaches, providers will be swamped with requests.
The earlier you switch, the quicker you can take advantage of the new features and technologies that All-IP networks offer. These often help to improve the efficiency and productivity of your business, keeping you ahead of your competitors.
How can Intricall help with the PSTN switch-off?
Intricall are here to help you. We can prepare you for the PSTN switch-off by providing guidance, support and solutions to transition you to an All-IP network smoothly and with no detriment to your business activities.
Intricall can:
- Recommend the best option for you.
- Identify any other services that run off the PSTN and ISDN lines such as door entry, alarms and lifts.
- Install and maintain your new network.
- Help train your staff on your new telecoms service.
- Ensure a smooth, stress-free transition.
Key dates for the PSTN switch-off:
- April 2023: Salisbury and Mildenhall End of Life process begins.
- September 2023: UK will stop selling new ISDN lines and users will be unable to add new features.
- 2024: New landline services will be completely digital.
- 2025: majority of remaining analogue customers will be contacted as migration intensifies.
- 2026: Final migration and deadlines warnings for remaining PSTN users.
- January 31 2027: The analogue PSTN network will be permanently retired
The PSTN switch-off is the gradual phasing out and eventual end of the landline PSTN network. Traditionally phone calls were made only using the PSTN network which carries analogue voice over copper wires. As more and more companies switch to mobile and internet-based communications, PSTN has become obsolete. By 31 January 2027, this will be discontinued, and companies will have to swap to alternative telephone communication systems such as VoIP.
This won’t be an overnight change and will occur gradually, but it is scheduled to end in January 2027. The PSTN and ISDN networks will be retired, and everyone will have to move to a fully digital network. Telecom companies have already started migrating customers to new digital services so that they are fully prepared before the deadline.
This will depend on how you currently use telecommunication services. If you use traditional landline phones, these will no longer work after 31 January 2027. You’ll need to switch to a different phone system. Internet-based communications will become the norm. Systems such as VoIP and SIP, as well as mobile phones, will be how everyone has to communicate in the future. You may need to upgrade your telecoms infrastructure and your broadband connection. There may be a learning curve for you and your employees so it’s best to seek the advice and support of an expert. Intricall can guide you through the whole process. The switch-off needn’t be something negative. It offers the opportunity for new features such as video conferencing and instant messaging tools that can make your business more efficient. Preparing and planning are crucial. You need to assess your current telecoms infrastructure, identify what services you need and find the right provider to make the transition smooth.
If you do not act and you are using the traditional, landline telephone, it will no longer work at after 31 January 2027. As a business, not being able to make or receive calls can have a massive effect on your operations. It can equate to loss of sales or missed leads plus damage to your reputation. You need to take the necessary steps to prepare. Contact Intricall if you need help. We will talk you through it all and make the process simple.
You will need to talk to a telecoms provider that can offer support and advice on preparing you for the switch-off. They can explain the options available for you, help to upgrade your infrastructure and migrate you over to a new one. Consult a telecoms specialist like Intricall who can help you plan and transition across. You could also attend an industry event or seminar to learn more about what’s happening. To sign up to listen to our next Webinar please sign up here. You can also take a read of government resources to find out more information.
It will depend on what your current phone system looks like and how old it is. Newer phone systems tend to be compatible with All-IP networks but older ones may need to be replaced or upgraded. If you have newer equipment, they may only need minor configuration changes to ensure that they work on the new network. With older ones you may have to replace the whole system. You may have compatible phones but you may still have to update your broadband connection or network equipment. Consult with a telecoms provider to find out if your system is compatible with a new network.
It should not affect the quality of your phone and internet services. If anything, it will improve the quality. All-IP networks offer superior quality and reliability. You’re less likely to suffer from dropped calls or poor-quality calls. However, it’s important to note that this will all depend upon the quality of your broadband connection and the performance of your network equipment.
There are many benefits of switching to an All-IP network. Firstly, it will save you money as you can go on a pay-as-you-go plan. You’ll have a better quality and more reliable system. One of the key advantages is that you’ll have access to advanced features and services that are not available on the PSTN network. All IP-networks are also easily scalable and flexible. Some can be integrated into your existing systems such as your CRM or ERP system.
Your current phone number will not be affected by the PSTN switch-off. It can be simply transferred to your new network and you can continue to use it as you have been.
There may be some upfront and ongoing costs for your business. For a start, there may be some costs involved with upgrading your existing equipment. There will be service fees which are typically monthly and depend on the system you choose. You will also have to pay installation and set-up costs. Finally, there may be some ongoing maintenance and support costs. All of the costs associated depend on the system you choose and the size of your business.