The PSTN Switch-Off – Is Your Business Prepared?

At the end of 2025, the UK will be switching off its well-established telephone network and replacing it with a digital, internet-based service. With this deadline fast approaching, your business must have an action plan in place to ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruptions.

Current research shows that 27% of UK businesses haven’t even started developing a migration plan, and another 46% have started but haven’t finished – this lack of planning makes businesses vulnerable.

What is the PSTN Switch-off?

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is scheduled to be switched off on 31st December 2025, which means that traditional landline connections will be replaced with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.

29% of survey respondents were completely unaware of the switch-off and 19% were aware of it but weren’t informed enough. 

What is VoIP and how does it work?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is completely digital, which means it lets you make and take calls using an internet connection (which is the same technology used for messaging and video call services like Facetime and Whatsapp). This kind of technology is perfect for many businesses, meaning you can call in different ways like from your computer, desktop phone, mobile, and other devices like tablets.

For businesses, using VoIP comes with many benefits. Apart from the physical handset, an internet connection is all that is required.

Benefits of VoIP include:

• Flexible working
• Future-proof and easily scalable
• Cost saving
• Increased efficiency
• Integration with other business systems

How does the PSTN switch-off impact my business?

In short, any equipment that uses the PSTN will stop working: alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV, faxes, and more. This is a once-in-a-lifetime technological shift that will impact many businesses across the UK. 

Since 5th September 2023, there has been a stop-sell in place on all PSTN solutions, although it’s now time to start planning ahead and look at IP alternatives.

How can RDS help?

As the countdown to the PSTN switch-off draws nearer, it’s imperative for businesses to start embracing VoIP and crafting robust action plans. With a significant portion of UK businesses still in the planning stages or unaware of the impending transition, there’s a pressing need for comprehensive migration strategies to be developed and implemented.

As a leading provider of Managed Communication Solutions our team of experts are here to help. We can ensure a seamless implementation across your business and can minimise downtime during the imminent transition. Contact us today, call 020 7466 4700 or email info@rightdigitalsolutions.com – Let’s navigate the PSTN switch-off together.