The UK's traditional phone network (PSTN) is being switched off on 31 January 2027. If your business relies on analogue phone lines, ISDN, or older phone systems, you need to take action now.
What's Actually Happening?
BT Openreach is retiring the copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) that has served the UK for over 100 years. All voice services will move to digital, running over broadband connections instead.
This isn't optional. When the switch happens, old analogue services will simply stop working.
What's Affected?
It's not just desk phones. Many business systems rely on analogue lines:
- Phone lines - Traditional landlines and ISDN
- Alarm systems - Many security alarms dial out over phone lines
- Card machines - Some older PDQ terminals use phone lines
- CCTV systems - Remote monitoring often uses analogue connections
- Lift emergency phones - Required by law, often analogue
- Door entry systems - Intercoms that dial out
- Fax machines - Still used in some industries
Why You Need to Act Now
January 2027 might seem far away, but there are good reasons to plan your migration now:
- Avoid the rush - As the deadline approaches, installers will be overwhelmed
- Get better pricing - Early movers often get better deals
- Time to plan - Complex setups need proper planning
- Take advantage of better features - Modern systems offer more than old phones
What Are Your Options?
The good news is that modern alternatives are often cheaper and better:
- VoIP phone systems - Cloud-based phones that work over broadband
- SIP trunking - Connect existing phone systems to digital lines
- Mobile integration - Take business calls on your mobile
- 4G/5G backup - Keep working even if broadband fails
Not Sure If You're Affected?
Take our free 30-second check to see if your business has any at-risk services.
Check My BusinessHow We Can Help
At Newman Business Solutions, we've been helping Kent businesses with their telecoms for over 40 years. We can:
- Audit your current setup and identify affected services
- Recommend the best replacement solutions
- Handle the migration with minimal disruption
- Provide ongoing support after the switch
Don't wait until the last minute. Get in touch for a free review of your setup.