In 2025, the UK’s PSTN network is going to be switched off. But should you be worried about it? In this article, we will explain just what is going on, what it means for you and your business, and just exactly what you should do.
What is the PSTN Switch Off?
The PSTN stands for the “public switched telephone network” and has been in use for a long time, with many of the copper wires used in the network being under your feet since the 19th century – but that’s all about to change.
The PSTN Switch Off is happening in 2025, and means that all customers, including businesses, will have to move to another (digital) service before then.
Simply put, if you are still operating on a landline – whether in your home or business – you will need to upgrade to a more modern alternative when it comes to your telephony system.
Why is the PSTN being switched off?
The PSTN has been the centre of the UK’s phone system for decades, so why is it suddenly being switched off? The answer is quite simple.
Over the recent decades, it would be fair to say that we have seen a profound technological revolution, with communication being much more widespread and, crucially, digital.
Platforms such as Zoom, and smartphone apps, have become increasingly commonplace. In other words, people simply are not using landlines anymore – because why should we?
In addition, the technology and infrastructure associated with the PSTN simply cannot keep up with the demands of modern communication systems and customers’ desires for instantaneous communicative gratification.
Just think, how many of us use the landline as our primary method of communication nowadays?
These two factors are why it is now time to embrace the limitless possibilities of digital communication channels and abandon the oft-sluggish methods of the past.
So, should I be worried about the PSTN Switch Off?
No, you absolutely should not be worried about the PSTN Switch Off.
As we have considered above, it is arguable that we have already undergone the transition into a truly digital – and highly connected – way of communicating that makes our lives all that easier.
And it really couldn’t be simpler – when you embrace the future of telephony and replace your landline with a Voice over Internet Protocol system (VoIP), you can guarantee a far more effective, efficient, and cost-effective running of your business.
The benefits of VoIP
Digital systems are simply better than the old phone system in almost every way.
Not only that, but they are incredibly easy to install, meaning your landline replacement will be a stress-free process. Just some of the benefits of VoIP include:
Lower costs
Digital alternatives are software based, meaning you will not need to invest in any expensive infrastructure, keeping your company costs down.
Flexible working options
As a cloud-based solution, digital modes of communication allow you to access your systems from anywhere, and at any time, meaning you can work from wherever you want.
Better customer relations
Your business applications will all be linked with video chat, as opposed to an archaic landline telephone, meaning you can make far more personable calls to customers – which they love.
Go digital today
As an affordable, easy to set up solution, there’s no time like the present to implement your digital communication system before the PSTN Switch Off. Landlines are out – it’s time to embrace the future.
