Frequently Asked Questions About the PSTN Switch Off

Update: BT have now pushed back the date for the switch off from 2025 to 2027.

In the UK, BT Openreach will be phasing out traditional landlines by 2027, which means that businesses who still use PSTN phone lines will need to switch to using VoIP phones in good time before the deadline. A recent study showed that 62% of businesses in the UK still use landlines, and 45% are unaware that landlines will be switched off in 2027: while there’s still time before the deadline, it’s important to start planning for the switch to allow time to choose the best VoIP option and carry out the transition smoothly and without any downtime or lost productivity for your business. We get asked lots of questions about the PSTN switch off, so we've gathered our answers to the most common questions here.

What is the PSTN switch off?

The PSTN switch off refers to the gradual phasing out of traditional analogue telephone lines, to be replaced with clearer and more reliable digital alternatives - ie VoIP phone lines or digital phone lines. This transition is driven by the need for more advanced and flexible telecommunications infrastructure to meet the demands of modern businesses and users.

What are PSTN phone lines?

PSTN phone lines, also known as analogue telephone lines, have been the backbone of telecommunications for decades. They use copper wires to transmit voice signals over a network of switches and exchanges, enabling users to make and receive calls.

What is replacing PSTN phone lines?

The replacement for PSTN phone lines is Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. VoIP allows voice data to be transmitted over the internet, offering greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional analogue lines.?

Will the PSTN switch off affect all businesses?

Yes, the PSTN switch off will affect all businesses that are still using traditional telephone lines for their communications (this includes any service connected to or using PSTN lines, such as CCTV, POS and security systems). Any business that is currently using PSTN lines will need to transition to VoIP or other digital alternatives to maintain connectivity.

What is the timeline for the PSTN switch off?

In the UK, BT Openreach has announced plans to complete the transition to an all-IP network by 2027, with the decommissioning of PSTN scheduled to begin in 2023. It's recommended that all businesses begin planning for the transition now, so that they can make the switch in plenty of time before the deadline.

Can I get support for my business for the PSTN switch off?

Absolutely! We’ve been working with VoIP since 2004 and we’ve helped many customers make the switch from PSTN to VoIP phone systems. We’re here to support you every step of the way: we’ll start with an audit of your existing systems and get a good picture of your needs and requirements, then we’ll make our recommendations for the VoIP phone provider that’s the best fit for your business. We’ll help you plan the transition, providing you with a clear timeline and outline of the costs involved - so no hidden fees or unexpected charges down the line. We’ll make sure that the transition is smooth and easy, and we’ll be on hand to offer support throughout the switching process, and ongoing support for your VoIP phone system, whenever you need us.

The PSTN switch off represents a major shift in telecommunications infrastructure that will impact lots of businesses. However, with proper planning and support, organisations make the transition without disruption and embrace the benefits of modern communication technologies like VoIP. If you have any further questions or you’d like to chat to us about getting help with the switch to VoIP, give us a call on 01209 340120, send us a DM or get in touch via our website.