Jana Vidis at IFB.net describes a catalyst for smarter, more resilient business
For over 100 years, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) has been the backbone of communications in the UK, but the analogue copper-line network is finally set to retire in just over a year.
Despite delays to the schedule, the official switch off is now taking place in January 2027, resulting in every traditional landline in the UK being replaced by digital, internet-based alternatives.
With just over a year to go, organisations must start preparing for the retirement today because the upgrade to their systems may involve more complexity and operational disruption than they anticipate.
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
The PSTN was first introduced in 1876, operating through copper wires that have become outdated, costly to maintain and a less reliable for many modern businesses.
Given the limitations of the PSTN, the transition to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and fibre broadband represents a significant modernisation that is more suited to today’s organisations.
These technologies are not only more cost-effective and easier to manage, but they also reflect how modern business needs have evolved – with focus on digitalisation, flexibility, while being built for the way businesses connect and collaborate today.
However, while many organisations have already upgraded to modern, internet-based phone systems, others still rely on the legacy analogue line, so could face serious disruption as a result of the switch-off.
These systems include:
While the switch-off has been in the pipeline for over a decade, many businesses are still unprepared. Only around half of UK organisations have upgraded to digital systems, meaning that in the next 14 months, a significant transformation will need to take place.
Failure to plan could lead to serious operational disruptions.
Preparing businesses for the switch off
When it comes to preparing for the switch-off, the first step is building awareness.
Many businesses assume they are no longer reliant on analogue lines simply because the desk phones have been phased out.
In reality, critical systems might still rely on the PSTN without their knowledge. It is vital a thorough audit is conducted to identify any of these assets. This includes auditing not just voice communications but also security, facilities and operational technology.
Once the audit is complete, businesses should take the following strategic steps:
The benefits of digital businesses
While there may be initial setup costs, particularly for new hardware or network upgrades, the long-term financial benefits of moving to internet-enabled systems is significant.
VoIP systems use a per-user licensing model, allowing businesses to scale seamlessly while keeping communication costs predictable and maintenance minimal.
However, one of the key concerns around the PSTN switch-off is resilience. Unlike analogue lines, digital systems rely on internet connectivity and power, both of which can be disrupted due to cyber attacks and digital outages, or even external factors like storms.
This risk can be mitigated, and businesses can maintain resilience through backup broadband connections, cloud redundancy and clear contingency planning.
The transition also presents an opportunity to rethink communication strategies. By adopting integrated platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, businesses can unify messaging, voice and video into a single, secure environment which enhances flexibility and collaboration.
The countdown to a connected, resilient future
The PSTN switch-off marks more than the end of analogue lines - it’s the beginning of a more agile, digital era for business communication.
Those, who prepare early, review their systems and plan for transition continuity, will be well positioned to navigate the change smoothly, enabling them to move ahead equipped with a modern communications systems that enhances efficiency, resilience, and customer experience.
Jana Vidis is Business Development Manager at IFB.net
Main image courtesy of iStockPhoto.com and cemagraphics
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