BT Group has announced an extension for the switch-off date of ISDN and PSTN services to January 31, 2027. This gives organisations, especially those who need a bit more time, a smoother transition to the more advanced IP-based systems.
A Century of Connection: A New Era Begins
For over 100 years, phone calls in the UK have relied on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). This extensive infrastructure of telephone lines and switching centres has connected millions of callers, but now, it’s time for a major upgrade!
Internet and video calling tools have overtaken PSTN’s capabilities, and so maintaining the old system has become increasingly challenging. Older connections could no longer be ordered from September 2023 and from 2027, the PSTN will be turned off across the whole of the UK, marking the start of a new era in telecoms.
Digital transmission or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) will take over, allowing calls via broadband and mobile data.
Why Should You Act Now?
Every organisation will need to switch to modern IP telephony, which run on a data connection rather than the outdated copper wires of the PSTN. Many organisations pay for phone and internet access separately, so switching to IP calling combines these services. This can reduce costs and offer other benefits, including high-quality video conferencing and better accessibility.
The sooner you switch to IP telephony or VoIP, the sooner you can enjoy these benefits.
Preparing for the Future
Organisations that don’t adopt VoIP systems before the switch-off will face more than just the inability to make calls. Many alarm systems, lift alarms, and emergency contact points rely on PSTN and must be upgraded before 2027, and if they don’t – they will be out of action.
We at Equations understand the extensive use of PSTN lines. However, the responsibility for updating or swapping out hardware lies with customers. Taking stock of your current systems well in advance of January 2027 will make the IP transformation smoother and easier all round.
Smaller organisations may need to buy new telephones and familiarise their IT personnel with the new systems. Larger organisations may need to plan for the new opportunities offered by IP and the retirement of outdated equipment.
Early planning for the changes will help avoid a stressful and costly last-minute transformation.
How to Adopt These Services by 2027
We’re on hand to help ensure a smooth transition, whether you need to swap old handsets all at once – or prefer a gradual approach, upgrading critical systems one at a time.
Once you’ve switched, you’ll only pay for what you need and can easily scale your systems up or down accordingly. Between now and 2027, your organisation might expand, move, or even enter new areas – and with IP, you’ll have the flexibility to adapt seamlessly.
Embracing IP calling is part of the broader digital transformation happening across the country, and just as the pandemic sped up the acceptance of hybrid work and cloud collaboration, the time leading up to 2027 will be crucial for the continued success of all organisations.
So, don’t put it off! Contact us for your free review and start your transition to IP telephony today, unlocking a world of new possibilities for your organisation!
