How will the delayed PSTN switch off affect your business?
Kristian Torode
Managed Business Communications Professional providing Mobile, Fixed line, Data and Unified Comms.
BT Group has confirmed that the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) switch off deadline has been extended from December 31, 2025 to January 31, 2027. This gives providers more time to address safety concerns for vulnerable customers after telecare device failures in recent months. However, this doesn’t mean businesses should delay switching to digital.
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Putting off your digital switchover means your company risks being left without a functioning phone system. Openreach has now stopped the sale of copper-based telephony and broadband products to over 880,000 premises across the UK.
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Further stop sells will be triggered in exchanges where over three quarters of premises can access full fibre, with over 700 exchanges expected to be affected by the summer. Even if PSTN products are still available in your area, it’s better to upgrade your business comms setup now in advance of potential changes.
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The production of replacement parts for many PSTN-based services has ceased, making it difficult to carry out essential equipment repairs. Consequently, analogue phonelines are becoming less reliable, with Ofcom data showing a 60 per cent increase in lost service hours in 2023.?
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Therefore, delaying the switch to digital means your company will likely face business communication challenges.
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Benefits of switching now
In addition to limiting communication issues, switching early offers a host of other advantages.
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Digital phonelines such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP):
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Switching now also gives your business time to train staff on the new system, and to find the right connectivity option for your budget and business needs.
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Despite the PSTN switch off being delayed until 2027, it’s important your business doesn’t delay switching to digital. Choosing a futureproofed PSTN alternative now not only helps you avoid a last-minute rush before the deadline, but also allows you to start reaping the benefits of digital connectivity straight away.
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For free advice on how your business can navigate the PSTN switch off, get in touch with our expert team .