Get Ready for the Upcoming Switch-Off

UK Landline Network Switch-Off: What You Need to Know

The Network Switch-Off

The UK is transitioning away from traditional copper-based phone lines. Telecom companies are replacing Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN) with more modern, broadband-powered alternatives. This transition will affect everyone using traditional voice and PSTN-based broadband services (ADSL & VDSL). The switch-off is driven by the need to modernise communication infrastructure. PSTN has served as the backbone of UK communication for over 100 years, but maintaining this century-old technology is becoming increasingly challenging. The shift to all-IP services promises faster, more reliable connectivity and is seen as an opportunity to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Switch-Off Timeline

Initially set for completion by December 2025, the plan to phase out old copper-based analogue line services has been postponed to January 31, 2027. This delay allows more time for broadband ISPs, telecare providers, and consumers to adapt. Many businesses and consumers haven’t yet considered the necessary upgrades or the benefits of switching to an all-IP alternative.

Openreach “Stop Sell” Policy

Despite the postponed switch-off date, Openreach’s “Stop Sell” policy took effect in September 2023. Under this policy:

• Customers using copper lines cannot switch to a new provider while retaining their copper-based service.
• Openreach is no longer installing new copper-based voice services.
• New copper line orders and transfers, as well as modifications to existing copper lines, are no longer being accepted.

What services will be switched off by January 2027 and what does it mean for your internet connection?

Depending on what system your business relies on, you may need to upgrade things such as traditional voice, broadband and any services that connect to it as they will cease to work. This includes:

• WLR3 analogue, ISDN2, ISDN30;
• LLU SMPF, SLU SMPF, Narrowband Line Share;
• ADSL & VDSL (aka. FTTC) broadband;
• Payment terminals, security systems, fire/intruder and healthcare alarms (Redcare), emergency phones in lifts, CCTV cameras and monitoring equipment and telecare devices etc.

Impact on Businesses

The switch-off affects all businesses currently using traditional voice and PSTN-based broadband services. Here’s what you need to know:

• PSTN and ISDN Networks: PSTN has been a cornerstone of UK communication for over a century. Introduced in the 1980s, ISDN allowed for voice calls, faxes, and data services. However, it was primarily used by larger businesses due to its cost.
• Existing Infrastructure: Most copper infrastructure is managed by Openreach, which is transitioning to support IP (Internet Protocol) traffic only. This means existing PSTN and ISDN phone lines will become obsolete.
• Impact on Hardware: Some ISDN-compatible hardware may reach end-of-support before the deadline, requiring businesses to find alternatives sooner.

Preparing for the Switch-Off

Businesses should act now to avoid disruptions:

1. Review Communication Infrastructure: Assess how the switch-off will impact your business’s voice, broadband, and connected services like payment terminals, security systems, and telecare devices.
2. Explore Digital Alternatives: Consider switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services, which can use existing hardware in some cases but may require additional equipment.
3. Plan for Connectivity Upgrades: Options include:
   • Full Fibre (FTTP): Offers speeds up to 1 Gbps with a telephone line.
   • SoGEA (Single order Generic Ethernet Access): Data-only service with speeds up to 80 Mbps.
   • SoFAST (Single order G.Fast): Provides download speeds up to 300 Mbps.

VoIP Options

Once you’ve upgraded your connectivity, choose a voice service:

• Hosted VoIP: Cloud-based telephony, accessible from anywhere, with lower initial costs but higher ongoing expenses.
• On-Premise VoIP System: Hosted locally, potentially using existing hardware, with higher initial costs but lower ongoing expenses.

Both options, depending on the solution, should allow you access from anywhere, providing you with the option to make work calls from laptops and smartphones, along with providing a range of powerful call management features. The main difference is that a Hosted solution will have a lower CapEx but an increased OpEx whereas it will be the other way around for an on-premise solution; a Hosted solution will cost more in the long run.

Conclusion

The switch-off represents a major overhaul in UK communications. Use this opportunity to modernise your systems, improve efficiency, and cut costs. For assistance or concerns about compatibility and the transition, reach out to us proactively.

If you wish to find out more read our articles “5 Hard-to-ignore benefits of business VoIP phone systems“, “Empower your business communications: A comprehensive guide to 3CX phone systems” and check out our collection of VoIP for business FAQs. Don’t hesitate to give us a call, our team is always ready to help.