The PSTN Switch-Off: What You Need To Know

We're partnering with BT to spread the word about the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) switch-off. But what is PSTN and why do you need to be prepared to switch to IP (Internet Protocol) technology?

Why is the transition happening?

To put it simply, the PSTN is a network of copper wires that has historically connected landlines and other devices like fax machines. The PSTN has been the foundation of the UK's telephone network for over 60 years, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain due to faults. 

Like other countries in the world such as Germany, Japan, and Sweden, we have decided to switch off these systems which no longer sustain requirements and replace them with a modern solution, IP technology.

When will PSTN be switched off?

The old, analogue network will be switched off for good by the end of January 2027, however, BT is urging customers to review their technology estates, test their devices, and switch to newer, more reliable networks by the end of 2025. This is to ensure that no one will encounter problems when the PSTN is finally off, as any remaining services not switched to the new digital network by January 2027 will be lost.

It’s key to remember this is not just about landlines and phone calls. Everything connected to your phone lines, like door entry systems, alarms and chip and pin machines, needs to be reviewed.

How to switch to IP Technology?

1. When you decide to switch to IP Technology, leadership and IT managers must collaborate to ensure a clear strategy is defined as you will need to navigate complex infrastructures.
2. Assign clear leadership that incorporates both organisational and technology perspectives and can communicate clearly with all parts of the business. 
3. Identify the specific benefits for your organisation, what you hope to achieve from migration and how this aligns with strategic goals in the short and long term. 
4. Identify potential pitfalls your organisation could face, who will be affected, and mitigating strategies to minimise disruption. 
5. Develop a roadmap for action and communicate it regularly to the wider organisation. 
6. Engage with the available support and guidance from BT. 
7. Finally, contact BT, who will guide you through the transition to IP Technology. When switching you will have a dedicated account manager and migration specialist are ready to support you through each step

What to do next?

Find out your next steps to make the switch on BT's PSTN Switch-Off Hub

Glossary:

We know how difficult this process can be for business owners, so we've pulled together a brief glossary of terms you may encounter when making the switch and using online guides:

ADSL: Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. A broadband connection that works through the copper wires of existing phone lines and is mainly used for home broadband and within small businesses.

Cloud telephony: or Cloud Voice, an application of VoIP technology that provides more advanced features and flexibility by leveraging cloud infrastructure.

IP Technology: Internet Protocol Technology. A fully digital phone network set to replace PSTN, ISDN, ADSL and all traditional broadband services by 2027. 

ISDN: Integrated Services Digital Network. In 1986 it replaced some older analogue landlines improving the service. However, ISDN is now outdated and unable to compete with IP technology.

PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Network. An analogue, legacy platform using underground copper wires to enable communication. 

PSTN switch-off: The existing phone network, which comprises PSTN, ISDN, ADSL and all traditional broadband services, is being replaced with a newer version which relies on IP technology. This move is also being referred to as All-IP switch or Copper switch-off.

SIP: Session Initiation Protocol. It unites infrastructures and uses data networks for voice calls.

VoIP: Voice over Internet Protocol. A way to make and receive calls over the internet using the new IP Technology.