A Complete Guide to the BT Switch-Off
What is the ISDN Switch-Off?
Our communications have run over traditional copper lines for several decades, but technology has progressed and changed the way we communicate using things like apps, smartphones, and conference calls. Due to the high demand for modern communication methods, traditional phone lines can’t keep up, adapt, or change. As a result, infrastructure needs to change to meet the requirements of modern-day business telephony and communication.
Why is it happening?
Thee current traditional network is getting old. Most lines were installed in the 19th Century and are becoming more difficult to support and cannot keep up with the demands of 21st Century technology and communication requirements. Openreach is busy rolling out the full fibre network across the UK and stopped selling traditional phone lines in all areas as of September 2023.
What’s happening, and what does it mean?
The traditional phone line (PTSN or ISDN) network will be closed in December 2025. By then, every phone line in the UK will have moved to the new VoIP Network that uses Internet Protocol (IP), whether that’s a business or a home.
Any equipment that uses the traditional network will stop working such as alarms, EPOS machines, door entry systems, CCTV, Phones, and so on.
How will it affect your business?
You may need a new phone system to support the change, if you do need to change your current phone system this will need to be done by 2025. While this might seem a long way off, beating the rush to switch will save you difficulty further down the line, so the sooner you change the better.
Why act now, it’s not until December 2025?
Congestion
VOIP Network Congestion on Number Porting. A Number Port has already risen from an average of 10 working days to 15 working days, once we approach deadline day this is expect to be much longer.
Cost
The Cost of a Number Port is currently £25.00, this could also be increased closer to deadline day.
Supply & Demand
Supply and demand of VOIP Technology is already increasing, there are some great offers that may not be available closer to deadline day.
Save Money
Switching to a VOIP Solution now would save you money on Fixed Line Costs and Telephone Support Costs which would in turn, cover most if not all of a new VOIP System.
What are your next steps?
- Review your broadband and make sure you have the best speeds.
- Review your phone system and ask your current supplier if it has.
- Thee capability to run on the new VoIP network.
- Think about what system will work best for you. Do you want to work remotely etc?
- Do your homework to make sure you have the best solution for your business.
- Speak to a provider who can offer advice listen to your needs.
- Tailor a package to suit your business needs.
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