PSTN switch-off
Is your business protected?
In January 2027, the UK is switching off its traditional (analogue) copper networks.
All devices and services reliant on these networks will cease to function.
Read on to find out about the reasons, the impact, and how to make sure you’re prepared.
Who is affected by the January 2027 PSTN switch-off?
The PSTN switch-off will affect all homes and businesses operating on full-copper networks .
This means that from January, any technology that relies upon these networks will cease to function, including:
- Traditional broadband (namely ADSL, FTTC, and GFast)
- Analogue landline phones and fax machines
- Lifts, CCTV, alarms, payment terminals, etc
Is your business ready?
The PSTN switch off should be on every UK business’ radar. If you’re still relying on full-copper networks for any of your services, those services will stop working due to the switch-off and your business will be impacted.
Businesses are running out of time to ensure they don’t lose services or communications during the switch-off.
For broadband, what does this mean?
If you rely on ADSL, FTTC, or GFast for your internet, you’ll need to move to a different type of connection or lose communications.
Your provider should be in touch to migrate you to an alternative. If not, please get in touch. Alternatives include SoADSL, SoGEA, SoGFAST, and full-fibre (FTTP).
Speak to your provider, or reach out to us, about the best option depending on your needs: for instance whether you need digital (voice-over-internet) telephony services, a high-bandwidth connection for heavy data usage, etc.
For landline phones and fax machines, what does this mean?
- If your landline phone relies on analogue, copper technology, you’ll need to migrate to an over-internet solution or lose communications.
- If you currently have landline telephony but no internet line, you will need to purchase an internet connection in order to continue using your desk phone(s).
- If your phone line is currently separate to your internet line, you will similarly need to migrate to a single connection in order to continue using your desk phone(s).
You can then either:
- Switch to digital, voice-over-internet desk phones (these offer the same functionality as your analogue phones, but also a range of other modern, easy-to-use features to help keep your business competitive).
- Utilise adapters that enable you to keep using your current desk phones via an internet rather than a copper connection.
For other devices, what does this mean?
If any of your devices – such as lifts, CCTV, alarm systems and payment terminals – rely on full-copper networks, you’ll need to migrate or they will cease to function.
First, you’ll need to find from the manufacturer whether they’re IP-compatible. Then:
- If they aren’t, you’ll need to invest in mobile-based IoT solutions, which offer enhanced flexibility and scalability.
- If they are, you can keep your existing devices while introducing future-proofed connectivity options (see the broadband section).
Impact on business operations
Failure to adapt to digital solutions may lead to communication breakdowns, security vulnerabilities, and transaction issues.
The switch-off will affect various aspects of business operations, including:
- Phone number: If you don’t upgrade in time to protect against the switch-off, not only will your phone(s) and fax machine(s) stop working, but you also risk losing your business phone number.
- Security: If you don’t upgrade alarm systems and CCTV setups in time, they will cease to work in January 2027.
- Revenue: If your payment terminals are still reliant on full-copper in January 2027, they will cease to function and your business will lose revenue potential.
- Telecare: If your telecare-related devices are still reliant on full-copper in January 2027, they will cease to function, causing obvious risks.
- Lifts: It’s a legal requirement to ensure that lifts are equipped with a two-way means of communication, usually only needed in an emergency. If you don’t upgrade by January 2027, your lift will no longer be compliant, and the alarm button will not work.
Steps to prepare for the transition?
- Audit existing infrastructure: Identify all systems and devices currently dependent on full-copper lines.
- Consult with provider: Engage with your telecoms provider, or with our team of experts, to explore suitable digital alternatives.
- Migrate to digital solutions: Implement future-proofed broadband, telephony, and device / service systems.
- Train staff: Ensure your team is proficient in using new communication tools and platforms.
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