The clock is ticking towards the switch off of the UK’s old analogue phone network. In less than two years, the traditional landline network, which has been the backbone of our telephone system, will be switched off and replaced by a fully digital system. 

The changeover to digital has already begun, with geographical areas across the UK already transferred or in the process of being transferred to an all-digital phone system. As part of the transition, Openreach will stop providing new analogue phone lines to customers from September this year, ahead of switching off the existing copper PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) network by December 31, 2025.

Effectively the switch over means that calls will instead be routed over a cloudbased phone system, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), which is faster, more reliable and more cost effective for users.

The change is taking place to ensure that the UK’s communication network is fit for purpose for the demands of the 21st century. From remote working to streaming the latest TV shows and films, the way we live and work has changed dramatically over the past two decades, and we need a network which will meet and exceed our expectations.

For businesses, this means taking steps sooner rather than later to ensure you are prepared for the big switch off. If your office, factory or workplace currently relies on a traditional landline connection then it is time to start looking at digital phone and broadband alternatives. 

The benefits to moving to a digital phone system can be instant, including reduced ongoing costs, easier maintenance, more flexibility and better security. Using a cloud-based system will also help your team operate more effectively through better reliability, convenience and speed.

It is worth noting that you will need to identify any devices or services which currently run on an analogue system such as door entry systems and smoke or security alarms.

With the switch off covering the whole of the UK, including rural areas which are currently without broadband, Openreach is undertaking a roll-out of full fibre broadband which will boost connectivity across the country, as well as offering alternatives such as 5G solutions for remote locations.

Integrity is supporting customers with the move from the old analogue PSTN on to digital/IP landlines by helping them find the best solutions for their businesses. Now is the time to review your telephone and broadband services, and embrace the future.

This article was first published in the March 2023 edition of In-Cumbria magazine